Monaro MP John Barilaro and Bega MP Andrew Constance announced the details of the NSW Government Restoration and Rehabilitation grant jointly.

Mr Barilaro said the project would help restore traditional Aboriginal yam fields between the high country at Kosciuszko and Eden’s coast.

“I’m delighted the government’s been able to support this project because these yam fields have such an important ... history and cultural heritage,” Mr Barilaro said.

Mr Constance said the open grassy habitat along the Bundian Way was under threat from exotic plant invasion, vegetation thickening, and feral animals.

Traditionally, Indigenous women had helped managed these problems.

“This project won’t just bring back the yam, it will help connect our communities with traditional Aboriginal food,” Mr Constance said.

Indigenous women elders with traditional knowledge and cultural skills will help guide the project. Expert scientific and ecological advice will also be sought.

In all, 56 NSW community groups and government organisations will share $5.2 million in Restoration and Rehabilitation grant funding to undertake environmental projects.

Environment Minister Mark Speakman said the 56 projects funded under this year’s round of grants were for a range of habitat and ecosystem restoration projects.

“Communities have invaluable knowledge and passion for their local bushland, wildlife, heritage and ecological sustainability,” Mr Speakman said.

“These grants acknowledge and support these on-ground works and together these projects form a network of environmental initiatives, making a difference.”