Wetland Restoration Case Studies
Restoration works at Waterford Wetlands
Contributor: Anne Gibbs
Community NRM Support Officer – Upper Clarence Northern Rivers CMA
Email: annecso@bigpond.com
Local Landcare group, Pikapene and Cherry Tree Environment Centre Inc (PACTEC) have recently completed a $3155 project funded by the Bundaberg Rum Bush Fund to repair and protect the Apple Tree Flat wetland near Mallanganee.
A degraded wetland has been restored as a viable habitat for frogs and waterbirds, with many local trees and plants planted by volunteers from PACTEC. A number of interesting threatened species have been sighted in the area, including the Black-necked Stork or Jabiru and the Giant Barred Frog. By providing a shallow ledge for frogs and an island for a safe nesting refuge, the group has further enhanced the wildlife values of the adjoining Waterford Wetland area.
The project plan was developed by PACTEC’s late President, Garry Swindells. “Garry loved the Waterford Wetlands and spent many days, in any kind of weather up to his knees in reeds and water monitoring and photographing the numerous frog and bird species that he was passionate about recording and protecting. He was instrumental in putting this project together which makes it very special to PACTEC members and the local community. We are very pleased that we have been able to continue Garry’s dedicated work in improving the local environment.” said Lesley-Anne Jacobson, PACTEC secretary.
The recent earthworks have been planted out with oats and ryegrass, as well as lomandra (mat rush) and local trees. Once the wet season returns to the North Coast and the wetland fills, Ken and Gai can look forward to lots of croaking from their newly restored wetland.
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