Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
Key
site specific
region wide
Fencing to protect the Avon River
Plant growth along Boyagarra Pool, Avon River
Rebekah Esszig (NRM Officer) sampling water quality at Boyagarra Pool
Sampling water quality
Almost 90 per cent of a degraded stretch of the Avon River between Aldersyde and Toodyay in Western Australia has been fenced to protect plants and help stabilise soil, thanks to the efforts of local landholders.
A long history of uncontrolled grazing and vehicle access to the Avon River and its tributaries caused erosion of the river banks, loss of native plants and wildlife habitat and sediment damage to streams.
"Much of the damage to the Avon stems back to the late 1950s when the natural state of the river was altered dramatically through the River Training Scheme," said Bernard Kelly from the Western Australian Department of Water.
"Native plants were removed and the bed of the river was lowered, which meant the water was now flowing at two and a half times its natural speed.
"Thanks to the active involvement of the local community there has been extensive work over the years, not only practical activities but also the development of 18 long-term river recovery plans for different stretches."
Funding
Work forms part of the Avon Rivercare Project, Avon Priority Waterways and 'On with the Job' - initiatives supported with more than $1 million in funding from the Australian and State Governments.
Activities
"Since we started, over 350 kilometres of fencing has been provided to protect waterways and the project has been so successful that we dare not advertise. Our new fencing stock has been allocated before it has even hit the shed!
"We now have between 85 and 90 per cent of the main channel of the Avon fenced on both sides. This provides protection from stock, reduced erosion and runoff and also allows for natural regeneration of native plants and animals.
"We're harnessing the energy already there in the community and running with it."
Achievements
"Since we started over 350 kilometres of fencing has been provided to protect waterways and the project has been so successful that we dare not advertise. Our new fencing stock has been allocated before it has even hit the shed!
"We now have between 85 and 90 per cent of the main channel of the Avon fenced on both sides. This provides protection from stock, reduced erosion and runoff and also allows for natural regeneration of native plants and animals.
"We're harnessing the energy already there in the community and running with it."
More information
- Bernard Kelly, Waterway Assessment and Restoration Program Manager, WA Department of Water: (08) 9690 2628 or bernie.kelly@water.wa.gov.au
See also
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