How Does the ELZ Work?

BEND OF ISLANDS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION

How the Environmental Living Zone Works

The Planning Scheme

The special provisions that are in place to maintain the habitat, landscape and aesthetic quality of the area are embodied in the Nillumbik Shire Council Planning Scheme. The Bend of Islands area is designated "Special Use Zone; Bend of Islands Environmental Living Zone"

The planting of indigenous species when landscaping around homes ensures the maintenance of the native flora. Horses are excluded from the area to minimise the intrusion and spread of exotic grasses. Horses spread seed over a wide area through their faeces. When horses are ridden outside their owner's property seed is spread even further. This area is particularly prone to erosion because of its terrain and soil type and horses' hooves cut up vegetation and topsoil, exacerbating the problem.

For aesthetic reasons a number of conditions are placed on all building permits: materials used are to be in tonings which blend with the environment and buildings should be located to minimise impact.

In order to to allow the free movement of native animals fencing is not permitted.

The exclusion of dogs and cats from the area is necessary for the protection of the native fauna. The zoning makes a positive move to overcome the problems caused by roaming dogs and feral cats which frustrate so much of the fringe metropolitan area of Melbourne.

The rights of the landowners who lived here at the time of the introduction of the zone are also protected. Non-conforming (prior use) rights enable these residents to pursue the activities in which they were involved.

What is the responsibility of the residents?

Zoning provisions only form a basis for conservation of the area. It requires the commitment of the community to achieve the aim of the zone. Residents do this by taking up land management responsibilities - landscaping their properties with plants native to the area, erosion control, weed eradication and fire management practices, particularly with regard to fuel reduction.

Regular work parties are organised through the Landcare Group for such tasks as weed eradication and re-vegetation on public land.

As management of bushland is a continual learning process visiting experts are also invited to share their knowledge on subjects such as native plants and animals, plant propagation methods, erosion control, weed identification, building methods and landscaping.

Increased awareness in broader conservation issues has resulted in interest and response by the community on the impact of issues such as development in the area, changes to the Warrandyte State Park, works by the SEC and other service authorities.

The residents of the Bend of Islands are committed to wild life conservation in their "back yards" and regard the ELZ provision as a set of guidelines to this end, rather than a tiresome set of regulations. Their reward is a unique opportunity to live in harmony with their bush environment knowing that measures to protect the plants and animals exist now and for the future.