The Pyretes to Long Forest Biolink area has a diverse range of landscapes, covering two bioregions (Central Victorian Uplands and Victorian Volcanic Plains) and five endangered/vulnerable ecological vegetation classes. The area encompasses the Lerderderg State Park – Pyrete Ranges, Merrimu Reservoir and Long Forest Conservation Nature Reserve. These natural assets connect to the basalt plains which have been predominately cleared for agriculture and housing. However, there are still pockets of remnant grassland and grassy woodland communities of varying quality, scattered throughout the landscape.

The biolink area has a well-established continuous vegetation link from the Pyrete Ranges to the north, and Long Forest to the south. It hosts over 400 indigenous plants and over 17 species that are considered rare or threatened. However, the area is experiencing the incremental loss of biodiversity within these vegetated areas from erosion, pest weeds and animals, and unsuitable land management decisions adjoining these large natural assets.

The biolink project proposes to engage and assist land managers with identifying high priority areas for restoration works. In addition, landholders adjoining these high value areas and roadsides will be engaged, and where deemed appropriate and within the project budget, will be invited to access on-ground assistance.