Safe haven for possums
Work is set to start on a unique environmental project in Eaton to rescue western ringtail possums from the brink of extinction.
Funding of $20,000 from WIRES and Landcare Australia provided to the Leschenault Catchment Council and supported by the Shire of Dardanup has helped make this project possible.
Under the project, a Possum Sanctuary at Leicester Reserve in Eaton will be established to provide a fenced safe-haven for the drought-impacted possum populations and allow their numbers to recover and thrive.
The sanctuary will become a tourist attraction and educational “outdoor classroom” over time. with project funding to allow for installation of glow-in-the-dark interpretative signage.
LCC project officer Katrina Zeehandelaar-Adams said with the ringtail possums’ habitat under the increasing effects of climate change, it was estimated the local population could become extinct within 10-15 years.
Project work will begin soon including upcoming events to educate and involve the community about the project.
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