The State Government’s WA Tree Recovery Grant Program to help communities affected by the polyphagous shot-hole borer has begun to be rolled out to local areas.
The $7.2 million grant was announced in August last year following the PSHB outbreak in WA.
The aim of the grant – which opened for applications on May 26 – is to plant up to three trees for every one removed from the infestation.
WA Local Government Association president Karen Chappel said the grant was important to ensure Perth continues to grow its tree canopy.
“With Perth already having the lowest tree canopy of any capital city in the country, it is imperative for the Federal and State Governments to invest in and explore every reasonable measure, in response to PSHB,” she said.
“WALGA acknowledges the importance of the WA Tree Recovery Program, but there is much more to be done to respond to PSHB and further protect and grow our tree canopy.
“We must ensure more new trees are planted to boost our ever-dwindling tree canopy.”
Eligible local governments, including Armadale and Canning, can apply for the grant to receive up to $1140 in funding, covering the costs of one primary replacement tree and two additional trees.
The PSHB beetle attacked a wide range of plants in Perth suburbs by burrowing into trunks, stems and branches and introducing a fungus, which caused many trees to die or be cut down. The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale and DPIRD confirmed in April that the shot hole borer had been discovered in the region.
It is expected that more than 16,000 trees will be replanted under the grant.
