McLaren Vale Biodiversity Project Incorporated

McLaren Vale Biodiversity Project Incorporated is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to restoring and enhancing the indigenous biodiversity of the McLaren Vale region in South Australia. It operates as a collaborative initiative involving local community members, industry stakeholders, and government bodies. The organisation focuses on regenerating natural ecosystems, particularly along creek lines, to support a healthy and diverse environment that benefits both the rural landscape and the local community.

Creek Line Regeneration: Restoring McLaren Vale’s Natural Ecosystems

The flagship activity of McLaren Vale Biodiversity Project Incorporated is the regeneration of creek lines across the Willunga, Maslin, and Pedlar Creek systems. This project involves the removal of invasive feral vegetation and the planting of native species to restore natural habitats. The initiative protects biodiversity on privately-owned lands, improves the region’s visual appeal, supports eco-wine tourism, and enhances habitats for native fauna and beneficial insects.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s mission is to enhance indigenous biodiversity within the McLaren Vale region to foster a regenerative rural economy, farms, and community. Its vision is a thriving landscape where native flora and fauna coexist sustainably, supporting both environmental health and local livelihoods.

Main Objectives

• Restore degraded creek lines by removing invasive species and planting native vegetation.
• Protect and enhance biodiversity on private and public lands.
• Raise community awareness about environmental health and conservation.
• Support sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism through improved ecosystem health.
• Engage volunteers and partners in hands-on conservation activities.

Benefiting Groups

• Local landowners who gain healthier, more sustainable landscapes.
• Community volunteers who participate in restoration activities and gain environmental education.
• Farmers and vineyard operators benefiting from improved ecosystem services and eco-tourism credentials.
• Wildlife and native species whose habitats are restored and protected.

Types of Services or Activities

• Monthly Field Days where volunteers remove weeds and plant native species along creek lines.
• Weekly Weedy Wednesdays sessions focused on ongoing weed control.
• Community education and engagement through events and workshops.
• Partnership development with industry, government, and community groups.
• Volunteer leadership roles including team leaders and committee members to organise activities.