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2005-2006 in review
The River and Catchment Program is responsible for
engaging key stakeholders to address the management of
river, estuarine, wetland and biodiversity assets identified
in the Regional Catchment Strategy, River Health Strategy,
Wetland Strategy and Native Vegetation Plan.
Key program responsibilities include:
• integrated planning to protect and enhance the condition of
rivers, wetlands and the Environmental Water Reserve
• stakeholder engagement, participation and capacity building
in the development and delivery of river health, catchment
and biodiversity programs
• community caretaker of rivers and water resources through
implementation of the River Health Strategy and strategic
partnerships with agencies, local government and
community groups
• delivery of large-scale river restoration programs across
the region.
The prolonged dry period continues to have an impact on
rivers, lakes and wetlands in the Corangamite region.
While slightly below average annual rainfall was received in
2004-2005, reduced soil moisture content continued to affect
runoff and stream flows (DSE 2006).
During the past 12 months, there has been significant debate
on reduced levels in major water bodies, such as Lake
Wendouree in Ballarat and Lake Modewarre, near Moriac.
The
community has expressed concern about rapid changes in
vegetation structure, salinity and water levels. These changes,
along with other factors, have led to fish and eel deaths, with
the largest at Lake Modewarre in late 2005 resulting in up to
15 tonnes of eels being removed from the lake margins.
The ecological communities of these lakes and wetlands are
continuing to adapt to these changed circumstances.
Likewise, if higher rainfall conditions return, they are expected
to adjust to higher freshwater inflows.
IIn response to the current climatic situation, the Corangamite
CMA and partners have given a high priority to protecting and
enhancing remnant terrestrial and aquatic vegetation
communities across the region.
Evaluation of environmental flow release along the Moorabool River [Download]
Gellibrand River Environmental Flows Project
[Download]
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