The BFPL was formed in 1982, and currently has a membership of 180, with an active committee of 40, each committee member representing a local organization. It is a body of mainly local people, who together share a wealth of knowledge and experience of the Barmah Forest, and are concerned for, and dedicated to its conservation, because of the forest’s great historical, traditional, economical and environmental importance to the residents of the Barmah, Picola and Nathalia districts.

From the outset the League aligned itself to the World Conservation Union definition of conservation- “ The management of human use of the biosphere so that it may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to the present generations while maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations of future generations”.

The League is an incorporated association and the Statement of Purposes are as follows:

1: To promote conservation of the Barmah Forest, so that it may yield the greatest sustainable benefit to present generations, while maintaining it’s potential to meet the needs and future aspirations of future generations.

2: To oppose any actions that would be detrimental to the conservation of the Barmah Forest.

3: To endeavour to keep the Barmah Forest in its present productive state, and open to all present users and law abiding persons.

4: To keep a watchful eye on the Barmah Forest, and be available to liaise with, and provide local knowledge to Government Departments and other interested bodies.