Many years of hard work have paid off for a dedicated group of members from Esperance Regional Forum.  Since 1985, the group known as ELCDC (now better known as ERF) has delivered a broad range of projects assisting in the restoration and rehabilitation of degraded land and catchment areas including the Lake Warden Wetland System. Esperance Regional Forum were recognized when they received a Certificate of Achievement as a Finalist in the Regional Achievement & Community Awards 2010 (Category CSBP Environmental Award) at a Gala Dinner Presentation Night held recently at the Perth Convention Centre. Erf Chairperson Claire Mitchell said that it was an honour for ERF to be recognised, there is so much fantastic work being done by so many across our state.

ERF works closely with the community, landholders, Department of Food & Agriculture, Department of Environment & Conservation, Department of Water, Esperance Shire & Southcoast Natural Resource Management, co ordinating activities to manage our natural assets and providing a forum for discussion for those involved with natural resources management of the Esperance region.  Other projects undertaken by ERF include the implementation of the Stokes Inlet Management Plan and the Young River Catchment Plan as well as engaging over 240 school children, this year alone, with tree planting activities in the Lake Warden Catchment and assisting with educating them about the wetlands.

A team approach is taken by ERF and work is undertaken by both paid project officer staff and volunteer workers.  ERF is managed by a voluntary management committee consisting of 12 members from the community and four agency staff.