What is NRM?

Natural Resource Management (NRM) is the sustainable management of Australia's natural resources- our land, water, marine and biological systems, and cultural assets. NRM is vital if we are to ensure our ongoing social, economic and environmental wellbeing.

Across Australia, 56 NRM regions have been identified and each has produced an integrated regional NRM plan and investment strategy to help identify and coordinate actions specific to their regions.

More information on NRM can be accessed at http://nrm.gov.au/

What region do you cover?

The South Coast Region covers an area of 5.4 million hectares, about 2% of Western Australia. It includes the Shires of Denmark, Plantagenet, Cranbrook, Tambellup, Broomehill, Gnowangerup, Jerramungup, Ravensthorpe, Esperance and the City of Albany.It also includes parts of the Shires of Kojonup, Manjimup and Kent.

The South Coast NRM Region encompasses all the southerly flowing river catchments and some internally draining areas between Walpole in the west and Cape Arid in the east and to Broomehill, Mount Madden and Salmon Gums in the north.

The region is divided into six sub-regions on the basis of climate, drainage, soil landform and conservation values.

What does South Coast NRM do for the region?

We coordinate and facilitate the development and implementation of the South Coast Region Natural Resource Management Strategy. We also coordinate and administer funding from the Australian Government and the Government of Western Australia to undertake planning and on-ground activity in natural resource management.

Who does South Coast NRM work with?

South Coast NRM engages with the State and Australian Governments, State and Australian Government agencies, local governments, businesses, and organisations such as the Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Great Southern Development Commission, Regional Development Australia and Timber 2020 to promote our activities on the local, national and international stage. Our most precious partners are those landcare and conservation groups who carry out important on-ground works in our region, many of whom are volunteers.

Is South Coast NRM a government body?

No. We are an independent and incorporated not-for-profit association that is governed by a skills-based Board of Management and supported by community-based reference groups and committees.

Where does South Coast NRM receive its funding from?

South Coast NRM primarily recieves funding from State and Australian Government sources, however, occasional sponsorship from associations and corporate bodies is sought for local events and activities. South Coast NRM is exploring ways of making the organisation more self-sufficient through new funding opportunies. 
 
How much of your funding actually hits the ground?

The majority of the funds South Coast NRM receives from State and Australian governments is allocated to on-ground activities according to government and regional priorities. A small portion is retained to cover overheads at South Coast NRM to ensure good governance and management.

How much of a voice has South Coast NRM in determining State and/or Australian Government Policy in regards to the environment? 

South Coast NRM has open lines of communication with State and Australian Government politicians and policy advisors. We consistently make clear our position on a number of policy decisions that we know will affect the South Coast environment and community. The level of investment in South Coast NRM and our achievements to date, indicate we are an effective ally in meeting the challenges of environmental degredation accross the region.

Are you associated with CENRM?

South Coast NRM has signed a memorandum of understanding with the University of Western Australia's Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management. This ensures that knowledge, skills and research are shared between the organisations for the benefit of the South Coast community. 

What grants are currently available? 

Each year grants are made available for soil testing and monitoring, revegetation, fencing, perennial pasture and tree planting activities. Contact Southern Incentives project officer Penni Hewett on (08) 9845 8540 for more information.

I have a great project idea, who should I contact?

Help us to help local communties achieve local outcomes. Contact the South Coast NRM Albany office on (08) 9845 8537 or email info@southcoastnrm.com.au. We welcome your input.