The Country Road and Landcare Australia partnership supports six generation projects on cotton farmlands in New South Wales as part of the biodiversity project. Weed control, site preparation and planting in riparian areas will see improvements in biodiversity and habitat connectivity, and support threatened, vulnerable and iconic fauna species while also providing benefits in sustainable farming.
This ground-breaking alliance will come to life through engaging cotton growers in biodiversity restoration projects across Australian farmlands, as part of Country Road’s commitment to supporting local communities and the environment.
The initial project will be implemented by the Kahl family in the Namoi Valley, NSW—a region significantly affected by biodiversity loss and in need of restoration. Proud third generation cotton farmers, the Kahl family will participate in the program by revegetating land adjoining the Namoi River that flows through their property. Benefits of the project will include increased habitat and shelter for native animals, reduced erosion along the river bank, improved water quality and enhanced biodiversity.
Research findings from ‘Management of Biodiversity in the Cotton Landscape: Iconic and Threatened Species’, a report developed by the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC) with support from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program Smart Farming Partnership Initiative Round 1, have been used to identify regions and projects that best support environmental outcomes.
Country Road has proudly committed a minimum of $600,000 to the partnership over three years, via a corporate contribution and funds raised through the sale of its famous Verified Australian Cotton Heritage Sweats. This level of funding will provide Landcare Australia with the means to work with the Australian cotton industry to conduct multiple biodiversity projects in the region and invite more Australian farmers to participate in the program. The Kahl family is just the beginning.
By purchasing a Country Road Verified Australian Cotton Heritage Sweat, customers can actively support farmers in regenerating Australian landscapes.
