Community Involvement
Lake Macquarie, Wyong and Gosford Community Environment Network
Source: Community Environment Network
Date: March 2008
The Community Environment Network (CEN) was formed in 1997 as an over arching body to support individuals and groups in Lake Macquarie, Wyong and Gosford who are working for the environment.
Membership of the CEN is open to both individuals and other groups across the region. CEN is a community based non-profit organisation that meets monthly
(except December). The CEN employs a number of part time staff however,
most of our activities are carried out by volunteers.
Vision
We are an independent community group that works for Ecologically Sustainable Development and against threats to it.
Aims and objectives
- Increase the effectiveness of community groups in the region
- Be a regional voice for the environment and sustainability
- Provide a forum for public discussion and education
- Increase public awareness and understanding
- Promote community monitoring of the environment
- Facilitate the empowerment of individuals
Projects
CEN is involved in a wide range of projects including:
Conservation on private land:
CEN can provide information and advice to help you create Habitat for Wildlife in your backyard or Land for Wildlife on larger properties.
Community Sea Grass monitoring Project:
The Community Seagrass Monitoring Project is a community based environmental education and monitoring program, with a focus on nearshore seagrass beds across coastal NSW. The aim of the project is to achieve a collaborated effort from community and experts to monitor and preserve Seagrass across NSW.
Sustainable industries:
This project aims to identify and promote sustainable industries for the Central Coast, aiming for sustainable job creation and business growth.
Water:
The goal of this project is to help community members to better understand water issues and to join those making ‘wise use’ of water.
Wetlands:
The CEN Wetlands Education Project seeks to raise awareness about all wetlands on the Central Coast. Their values, threats, locations, and how individuals can become involved.
Kariong Eco Garden:
The Eco Garden is a learning place to demonstrate organic and water wise gardening, creating habitat for local flora and fauna; utilising composting, worm-farming, energy and water conservation techniques. This project aims to promote sustainable living on the Central Coast.
Waterwatch:
Waterwatch involves people in the community helping to improve the health of our waterways. There are many ways you can get involved. Dive in to see how you can do your bit individually, or as a group, for healthy waterways and a better environment.
Marinewatch:
The aim of Marinewatch is to increase awareness and understanding of the local marine environment and it’s associated biodiversity. The Marinewatch Project involves promoting the local marine biodiversity and informing the public about marine issues and what lies beneath the surface. This may prove valuable, especially with the movement and talk about Marine Protected Areas in NSW.
Gosford Lagoons:
The project is working with the community and stakeholders including Gosford Council and the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (HCR CMA) to develop and implement priority actions over two years.
For more information on the Community Environment Network, see: http://www.cen.org.au/index.htm
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