This program aims to improve the environmental sustainability of dairy operations in the Bega River catchment. Bega Cheese and SRCMA have worked cooperatively with farmers on a voluntary basis to implement a diverse range of initiatives. Key environmental benefits of this project include improved river health via enhanced river quality, environmental flows and habitat restoration. Benefits to farmers include financial gains through improved soil health, water use efficiency and pasture productivity.

To date, more than 85 per cent of Bega Cheese suppliers are participating in at least one aspect of the Bega Cheese Environmental Management System initiative.

Partners: Bega Cheese, NSW Department of Primary Industries, NSW Department of Water and Energy, Bega Valley Shire Council and local dairy farmers.

Funding: Australian and NSW Governments, Bega Cheese and local dairy farmers

Value of Project: $2,275,000

The Catchment Protection Scheme is a joint project between SRCMA and Sydney Catchment Authority that assists landholders to control severe and moderate erosion in the drinking water catchments of the Upper Shoalhaven River and Kangaroo Valley. The Scheme offers financial support and practical advice on erosion control and stock management. The types of activities supported by the Scheme include fencing of environmentally sensitive riparian areas, revegetation of eroded areas with local native species, stabilisation of creek stock crossings and installation of off-stream watering points.

Projects are assessed on a site-by-site basis using an objective rating system. This assessment, combined with information gathered in the field, forms the basis of an erosion control program. For severely eroded sites the Scheme can offer up to 90 per cent towards the cost of the remediation. For less severe erosion the Scheme can provide a 25 per cent subsidy towards erosion control work that landholders undertake. The benefits of the Scheme include soil conservation, improved water quality in farm dams and creeks, improved river health and improved property values.

Partners: Sydney Catchment Authority and local landholders.

Funding: NSW Government and local landholders.

Value of Project: $400,000