Dog owners face new restrictions on their pets as population growth clashes with efforts to protect one of the region’s most-endangered birds.
City Hall has released a “first of its kind” draft plan to project the hooded plover, which nests vulnerably on beaches along the Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula.
The draft plan suggests the use of “science-based data” to protect the plovers with new coastal planning regulations, “for example dog controls”.
The plan also considers the impact of pest predators while going as far as recommending “updated information” for hang-gliders who use dunes for launching.
Mayor Bruce Harwood nominated an influx of new residents and consequent increased use of local beaches as one of the pressures on local plover populations.
“There are a range of factors that are affecting hooded plovers, including pest animals, increases in population resulting in more people and dogs on beaches, introduced plant species, and changes in habitat from new developments,” Cr Harwood said.
“The City of Greater Geelong has done some great work for the past 12 years to protect the hooded plover from these threats, under the guidance of BirdLife Australia.
“This plan will allow us to focus our efforts even further, and will also help us collaborate strategically with the many other groups who can influence these important birds’ survival.”
City Hall has posted the draft plan online at geelongaustralia.com.au/yoursay for public feedback.
