GROUPS within the Port Phillip and Western Port Catchment Management Authority area will receive a total of $240,000 in Landcare grants.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato said the grants would enable groups to improve biodiversity, counter weed problems and protect waterways.
Groups set to benefit from the money include the Macclesfield Landcare Group, which will receive $19,600 for its community education project and to implement its biodiversity local action plan.
Toomuc Landcare Group will receive $9300 for pittosporum control along the Cardinia Aqueduct Trail plus an additional $2200 for other projects.
The Cardinia Environment Coalition will receive $9500 to implement phase two of its biolinks Strategy Plan plus a further $800.
Cardinia Shire Council will receive $10,000 for its community ragwort control program while the Johns Hill Landcare Group will be able to engage a facilitator for bush restoration and community engagement in the southern Dandenong Ranges with its grant of $8300.
Deep Creek Landcare Group ($800), Cardinia Catchment Landcare Group ($500), and Cannibal Creek Landcare Group ($300) are also receiving grant support.
Further information on Landcare groups can be obtained by visiting the Victorian Landcare Gateway website at www.landcarevic.net.au