A brolga at Johnson Swamp. Photo: North Central CMA.
Seven northern Victorian wetlands will be getting a fresh delivery of water to stimulate fish breeding and the feeding of birdlife.
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The Victorian Environmental Water Holder has allocated up to 13.5 Gl of water through to late spring for the wetlands at Lake Cullen, Johnson Swamp, McDonald Swamp and Lake Elizabeth near Kerang; Kunat Kunat (Round Lake) near Lake Boga; and the private Muringa and Wirra-Lo wetlands near Murrabit.
At Johnson Swamp, the North Central Catchment Management Authority and Parks Victoria have been working with Traditional Owners, duck hunters, and community members to reduce the tall marsh in the wetland.
A black-winged stilt on Lake Cullen. Photo: North Central CMA.
The aim is to increase the amount of open water, providing a more attractive space for a broader range of waterbirds.
North Central CMA environmental water reserve officer Peter O’Toole said the time was right to begin winter and spring flows to these wetlands.
“These wetlands work with current water for environment flows in rivers, creeks and on the Gunbower Forest floodplain to create a mosaic of opportunity for native animals over the breeding season,” Mr O’Toole said.
“Having different kinds of wetlands at different water levels is the ideal scenario, as it creates a variety of different habitats to support a wide range of wetland plants and animals.
“We’re excited to be able to deliver water to Johnson Swamp in spring and later in the season create a rare through-flow between the wetland and Pyramid Creek.
“That means water from the Johnson Swamp that’s full of the nutrients fish love will make its way into Pyramid Creek when breeding silver perch, golden perch and Murray cod need it most.
“Like Johnson Swamp, Lake Cullen is a Ramsar-listed wetland, because of the number of birds, including migratory species, it attracts.
Black-winged stilts taking flight on Lake Cullen. Photo: North Central CMA.
“Last time we delivered water to Lake Cullen, 16 critically endangered Australasian bitterns turned up.
“We hope to see a range of waterbirds take advantage of the abundant food that will be available when Lake Cullen receives water for the environment.
“We’re preparing for what we think will be some of the best spring breeding conditions seen in this part of the state for a long time.”
Deliveries of water for the environment are authorised by the VEWH in line with its Seasonal Watering Plan 2022-23.
Updates of water deliveries will be posted on the North Central CMA’s website, visit: www.nccma.vic.gov.au
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