A plan is afoot to extend important riparian plantings along around the Wilson’s River tidal pool, near Lismore, with a view to protecting precious water supplies and preserving important riparian zones.
North Coast Local Land Services and Rous Water have been working together to address erosion issues rural properties. Following successful work with an existing group of landholders the project is being extended to a further five properties
Laura McKinley, Land Services Officer said, ‘The project includes fencing for grazing management and protection of riparian areas, weed control, minor infill planting and major revegetation of some areas.’
She added the project has ‘important outcomes in the stabilisation of riverbanks and a reduction in soil erosion. This reduces the potential for associated chemicals, pathogens and suspended solids from these riparian areas entering the water source.
She said the outcome of this work assists in improving water quality for rural stock and domestic supply as well as town water use. The project actually increases the productivity of the land through improved stock water quality and by providing shelter for stock and pasture.
‘As a bonus the project will improve riparian and in-stream habitat values for biodiversity – helping to link existing restoration projects in the area and Boat Harbour Nature Reserve,’ she said.
‘Works have commenced on the planting of over 4000 plants and protection over on hectares of sensitive and important riparian area.
‘Our partnership with Rous Water is an important one where the community benefits from a number of positive outcomes in water quality, biodiversity and primary industry productivity,’ Ms McKinley said.
As the project develops, the partnership will also involve training and mentoring of landholders in bush regeneration techniques.
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