BIOTA-HAVEN PROJECT
The very base of Melbourne's splendid natural heritage, its unique and beautiful ground flora, which so captivated Matthew Flinders and other early explorers is, through development and alienation, now in seriousl decline. Because of the labour-intensive nature of restoration of this vital part of our local biodiversities further community initiatives will be necessary in habitats not protected in national parks or other secure reserves. Laanecoorie is dedicated to this challenge.

CONCEPT

A collaborative movement for the renewal and ongoing evolution of local biodiversities
through
the revitalization of fragmented and rapidly depleting gene-stock
in secure surrogate habitats
within
 viable, ongoing havens dedicated by participating landholders
and
supported by the nature community and authorities

PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

1. To evaluate, through studies and field trials, the feasibility and ecological worth of the revitalization concept as applied to the biota of the Diamond Creek Catchment of NE Melbourne. Effort will focus on the crucial understorey and ground components of biodiversity with terrestrial orchids a key challenge and a sensitive assessment benchmark. Initially, work will be restricted to what is considered, as yet, common species

2. To promote a wider involvement of naturalists, related organisations and authorities in authenticated local biodiversity undertakings such as those with Land for Wildlife and Landcare.

3. To establish a combined demonstration and field study site together with facilities for both research and education.

4. To generate ecotourist and ecoculture services aimed at contributing to the financial viability of biota haven type endeavours and furthering the biodiversity cause generally.
PROGRESS
METHODOLOGY
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