Lucyvale Dung Beetle Project

Lucyvale is a geographically isolated valley in the mountains of North East Victoria, Australia and is populated by beef cattle farmers. Most properties start in the valley floor beside Cudgewa Creek and sweep up into rugged timbered ridges. Approximately 10,000 acres is farmed, carrying about 3000 beef cattle and a small number of sheep and goats. The annual rainfall is 800mm+ with the highest rainfall occuring in the Winter months. In 2005 the Lucyvale Better Beef Group applied for funding under the National Landcare Program to release a range of dung beetles in the valley. Project Title: Improving phosphorus and nitrogen retention, soil productivity and water quality in Upper Cudgewa Creek Catchment Project aims: * To achieve year round dung burial through the introduction of 8-10 species of dung beetles. * To invite all Lucyvale Landholders to be part of the project. * To provide field and training days. * To monitor dung beetle activity, soil health and water quality. * To promote the benefits of dung beetles to the wider community. * To encourage Lucyvale landholders to use dung beetle friendly farming practices. Beetle Releases HOME

Project Participants Project Location Lucyvale aerial map