Growing Capacity
Volunteers help to boost native seed collection capacity in Coffs Harbour
Capacity building - LEP_23_033_LCC_CHRL_05
The issue
Coffs Harbour Regional Landcare (CHRL), as part of the Coffs Harbour sub-regional seed hub, was tasked with collecting seed for the North Coast Region Native Seed Bank. However, native seed collection is a specialised, labour-intensive process requiring significant site scoping, careful timing of seed collection, and seed processing expertise. With only limited funding available to employ staff or contractors, collecting adequate quantities of viable seed posed a major challenge. Without sufficient seed supply, the Seed Bank’s ability to support critical environmental recovery and restoration efforts across the region will not be realised.
The solution
In light of these challenges, CHRL turned to our volunteers. An Expression of Interest was circulated to our volunteer network to form a dedicated seed collection team. Those that responded were provided with targeted training. A strategic partnership with Envite Environment helped with training and supervision of seed collection activities. A WhatsApp group was set up and enabled real-time communication, helping the team share ripe seed sightings, coordinate activities, and exchange seed processing tips to increase efficiency.
The impact
A dedicated volunteer team now actively supports seed collection every few weeks. Their efforts provide critical extra capacity—scouting ripe seed, assisting with harvests, and sharing the workload of seed processing. This approach has significantly boosted the volume and quality of seed ready for storage at the North Coast Region Seed Bank therefore enhancing the success of future revegetation efforts across the region.
Key facts
- Native seed collection is time consuming and labour intensive
- CHRL volunteers helped improve capacity to collect seed
- Volume and quality of seed to Regional Seed Bank boosted