GHCMA Waterway Strategy 2014-2022 by Shane McGrath

T: 03 5571 2526 F: 03 5571 2935 www.ghcma.vic.gov.au

G L E N E L G H O P K I N S WAT E R WAY S T R AT E G Y 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 2 2

79 French Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300

G l e n e l g H o p ki n s

WATERWAY STRATEGY 2014-2022

Development of this strategy has been supported by the Victorian Government - Department of Environment and Primary Industries

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

CONTENTS CONTENTS

77 ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

CHAIR’S CHAIR’S FOREWORD FOREWORD

ABOUT ABOUT THE THE STRATEGY STRATEGY

1 1 DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne.

4.14.1Regional Regional work work program program 2014-2022 2014-2022

7272

4.24.2Coastal Coastal Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area

7373

2 2 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Wetland Wetland status status report, report, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2006. 2006.

4.34.3Lower Lower Glenelg Glenelg Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 105 105

1 1PART PART AA - REGIONAL - REGIONAL OVERVIEW OVERVIEW AND AND STRATEGIC STRATEGIC CONTEXT CONTEXT

4.44.4Upper Upper Glenelg Glenelg Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 132 132

1.11.1Regional Regional overview overview

1111

4.54.5Upper Upper Hopkins Hopkins Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 149 149

1.21.2Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins waterways waterways

1212

4.64.6Volcanic Volcanic Plain Plain Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 159 159

1.31.3Community Community participation participation

1818

4.74.7Wannon Wannon Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area

1.41.4Indigenous Indigenous people’s people’s knowledge knowledge and and involvement involvement

2020

1.51.5Strategic Strategic and and legislative legislative context context

2222

1.61.6Review Review ofof previous previous river river health health strategy strategy and and addendum addendum

2 2PART PART BB - MANAGEMENT - MANAGEMENT RESPONSES RESPONSES TO TO REGION-WIDE REGION-WIDE THREATS THREATS

Front cover: Dunkeld Arboretum, James Pevitt. Front cover: Dunkeld Arboretum, James Pevitt.

6969

4 4PART PART DD - REGIONAL - REGIONAL WORK WORK PROGRAM PROGRAM

2424

3131

2.12.1Pest Pest plants plants and and animals animals

3434

2.22.2Water Water management management

3737

2.32.3Climate Climate change change

4242

2.42.4Extreme Extreme events events

4343

2.52.5Estuary Estuary management management

4444

2.62.6Water Water quality quality

4545

2.72.7Wetlands Wetlands

4646

2.82.8River River channel channel

4848

2.92.9Riparian Riparian land land

4949

2.10 2.10 Recreational Recreational use use ofof waterways waterways

5050

3 3PART PART CC - THE - THE APPROACH APPROACH USED USED ININ WATERWAY WATERWAY PRIORITISATION PRIORITISATION

5151

3.13.1Vision Vision

5353

3.23.2Goals Goals and and overarching overarching principles principles

5353

3.33.3Asset-based Asset-based approach approach

5555

3.43.4High High value value waterways waterways

5858

3.53.5Priority Priority waterways waterways

5959

3.63.6Program Program logic logic

6767

169 169

4.84.8Estimated Estimated eight-year eight-year work work program program budget budget 189 189 4.94.9Delivering Delivering the the strategy strategy

190 190

4.10 4.10 Monitoring Monitoring reporting reporting and and evaluation evaluation

197 197

5 5ACRONYMS ACRONYMS

200 200

6 6APPENDICES APPENDICES

201 201

7 7ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

253 253

3 3 Department Department of of Natural Natural Resources Resources and and Environment, Environment, Western Western District District Lakes Lakes Ramsar Ramsar Site, Site, Strategic Strategic Management Management Plan, Plan, State State of of Victoria, Victoria, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2002. 2002.

Figure Figure 1. 1.Major Major river river basins basins and and Waterway Waterway Management Management .................. .................. 1111 Areas Areas in in the the Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins region region Figure Figure 2. 2.The The drivers drivers ofof environmental environmental condition condition ................. ................. 1212 that that support support the the values values ofof waterways waterways Figure Figure 3. 3.Condition Condition ofof reaches reaches in in Glenelg, Glenelg, Portland Portland and and Hopkins Hopkins basins basins based based onon the the third third ................................................................... ................................................................... 1616 ISC ISC report report Figure Figure 4. 4.Key Key legislation, legislation, strategies strategies and and plans plans and and their their relationship relationship with with the the Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins .................................................. .................................................. 2323 Waterway Waterway Strategy Strategy Figure Figure 5. 5.Key Key waterway waterway project project achievements achievements in in the the .......................................... .......................................... 2828 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins region region Figure Figure 6. 6.Generalised Generalised invasion invasion curve curve showing showing actions actions ..................................... ..................................... 3434 appropriate appropriate toto each each stage stage Figure Figure 7. 7.The The Victorian Victorian Environmental Environmental Water Water Holder Holder planning planning framework framework forfor decisions decisions in in environmental environmental water water management management ................................................................... ................................................................... 4040 in in Victoria Victoria Figure Figure 8. 8.AVIRA AVIRA conceptual conceptual framework. framework. Wetlands Wetlands are are provided provided asas anan example. example. Groundwater Groundwater and and marine marine asset asset classes classes are are not not part part ofof this this ....................................................................... ....................................................................... 5656 strategy strategy Figure Figure 9. 9.Filtering Filtering waterway waterway assets assets toto identify identify .................................................... .................................................... 5959 priority priority waterways waterways Figure Figure 10.10. Locations Locations ofof seasonally seasonally herbaceous herbaceous wetlands wetlands and and wetland wetland clusters clusters within within the the Glenelg Glenelg ......................................................... ......................................................... 6464 Hopkins Hopkins region region

2626The The Victorian Victorian Coastal Coastal Strategy Strategy (2008). (2008). Victorian Victorian Coastal Coastal Council Council Melbourne. Melbourne. 2727Victorian Victorian Climate Climate Change Change Adaptation Adaptation Plan Plan (2013), (2013), Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2013 2013

5 5 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA CMA Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins wetland wetland status status report, report, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2006. 2006.

2828M M Dunlop, Dunlop, H Parris, H Parris, P Ryan,& P Ryan,& F Kroon, F Kroon, Climate-ready Climate-ready conservation conservation objectives: objectives: a scoping a scoping study, study, National National Climate Climate Change Change Adaptation Adaptation Research Research Facility, Facility, Gold Gold Coast, Coast, 2013. 2013.

6 6 Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment Environment (2013). (2013). Indicative Indicative Assessment Assessment of of Climate Climate Change Change Vulnerability Vulnerability forfor Wetlands Wetlands in in Victoria. Victoria. Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, East East Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria. Victoria. www.depi.vic.gov.au/water/rivers-estuarieswww.depi.vic.gov.au/water/rivers-estuariesand-wetlands/wetlands. and-wetlands/wetlands. 7 7 Department Department of of Environment Environment and and Primary Primary Industries, Industries, Victorian Victorian Resources Resources Online Online Statewide Statewide Index Index of of Stream Stream Condition, Condition, 2013, 2013, http://vro.dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/stream_ http://vro.dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/stream_ cond_index. cond_index. 8 8 Department Department of of Environment Environment and and Primary Primary Industries, Industries, Third Third index index of of stream stream condition condition report, report, viewed viewed 7 January 7 January 2014, 2014, www.depi.vic. www.depi.vic. gov.au/water/water-resource-reporting/Third-Index-of-Streamgov.au/water/water-resource-reporting/Third-Index-of-StreamCondition-report. Condition-report. 9 9 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins regional regional catchment catchment strategy strategy 2013-2019, 2013-2019, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2013. 2013.

1111Department Department of of Premier Premier and and Cabinet, Cabinet, Registered Registered Aboriginal Aboriginal Parties, Parties, viewed viewed 6 November 6 November 2013, 2013, www.dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/ www.dpc.vic.gov.au/index.php/ aboriginal-affairs/registered-aboriginal-parties. aboriginal-affairs/registered-aboriginal-parties. (Barson (Barson 2013) 2013) 1212Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western region region sustainable sustainable water water strategy, strategy, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011. 1313Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins regional regional invasive invasive animal animal strategy strategy 201-2015. 201-2015. Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2010. 2010. 1414Department Department of of Primary Primary Industries, Industries, Invasive Invasive plants plants and and animals animals policy policy framework, framework, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2010. 2010. 1515Department Department of of Primary Primary Industries, Industries, Invasive Invasive pest pest plant plant and and animal animal policy policy framework, framework, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011.

2929T Booth T Booth &K &K Williams, Williams, Developing Developing biodiverse biodiverse plantings plantings suitable suitable forfor changing changing climatic climatic conditions conditions 1: 1: Underpinning Underpinning scientifi scientifi c c methods, methods, 2012. 2012. 3030DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 3131Estuary Estuary Entrance Entrance Management Management Support Support System, System, viewed viewed 1414 January January 2014, 2014, www.ghcma.vic.gov.au/coast-and-marine/estuaries/ www.ghcma.vic.gov.au/coast-and-marine/estuaries/ estuary-publications-2/. estuary-publications-2/. 3232DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 3333J Hale& J Hale& R Butcher, R Butcher, Ecological Ecological character character description description forfor thethe Western Western District District lakes lakes Ramsar Ramsar site. site. Report Report to to thethe Department Department of of Sustainability, Sustainability, Environment, Environment, Population Population and and Communities, Communities, Canberra, Canberra, 2011. 2011. 3434Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western District District Lakes Lakes Ramsar Ramsar Site Site strategic strategic management management plan, plan, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne Melbourne 2002. 2002. 3535J Hale J Hale &R & Butcher, R Butcher, Ecological Ecological character character description description forfor thethe Western Western District District lakes lakes Ramsar Ramsar site. site. Report Report to to thethe Department Department of of Sustainability, Sustainability, Environment, Environment, Population Population and and Communities, Communities, Canberra, Canberra, 2011. 2011. 3636Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Monitoring, Monitoring, evaluation evaluation and and reporting reporting framework framework forfor land, land, water water and and biodiversity, biodiversity, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2012. 2012. 3737GHD GHD (2012) (2012) River River and and Estuary Estuary Conceptual Conceptual Models Models to to Support Support Development Development of of Regional Regional Waterway Waterway Strategies. Strategies. Unpublished Unpublished report report to to thethe Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Victoria. Victoria.

1616Robley, Robley, A.,A., Gormley Gormley A.,A., Triggs, Triggs, B.,B., Albert, Albert, R.,R., Bowd, Bowd, M.,M., Hatfi Hatfi eld. eld. C.,C., McDonald, McDonald, R.,R., Rowe, Rowe, C.,C., Scott, Scott, K.,K., and and Smith, Smith, A. A. (2014) (2014) Glenelg Glenelg ArkArk 2005–2013: 2005–2013: Evidence Evidence of of thethe Benefi Benefi ts for ts for Native Native Mammals Mammals of of Sustained Sustained Fox Fox Control. Control. Arthur Arthur Rylah Rylah Institute Institute forfor Environmental Environmental Research Research Technical Technical Report Report Series. Series. Department Department of of Environment Environment and and Primary Primary Industries, Industries, Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Victoria. Victoria.

3838DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne.

1717Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western region region sustainable sustainable water water strategy. strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011.

4141DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne.

1818Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western region region sustainable sustainable water water strategy. strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011. 1919Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western region region sustainable sustainable water water strategy, strategy, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011. 2020Southern Southern Rural Rural Water Water www.srw.com.au/Page/Page.asp?Page_ www.srw.com.au/Page/Page.asp?Page_ Id=687&h=0 Id=687&h=0 created created 6 May 6 May 2014 2014 viewed viewed 4 June 4 June 2014. 2014. 2121CSIRO, CSIRO, Interim Interim climate climate projection projection statement, statement, CSIRO, CSIRO, 2013. 2013. 2222CSIRO, CSIRO, Interim Interim climate climate projection projection statement, statement, CSIRO, CSIRO, 2013. 2013.

3939DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 4040DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne.

4242DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 4343DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 4444DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 4545DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne. 4646Department Department of of Sustainability Sustainability and and Environment, Environment, Western Western Region Region Sustainable Sustainable Water Water Strategy, Strategy, Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne, Melbourne, 2011. 2011.

2323CSIRO, CSIRO, Climate Climate Change Change and and water water availability availability in in south-eastern south-eastern Australia: Australia: A synthesis A synthesis of of findings findings from from phase phase 2 of 2 of thethe South South Eastern Eastern Australian Australian Climate Climate Initiative Initiative (SEACI), (SEACI), CSIRO, CSIRO, 2012. 2012.

2 2I IGLENELG GLENELG HOPKINS HOPKINS CATCHMENT CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY AUTHORITY

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2525IPCC, IPCC, 5th5th Assessment Assessment report report (AR5) (AR5) Summary Summary forfor policymakers, policymakers, 2013. 2013.

4 4 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA CMA Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins regional regional catchment catchment strategy strategy 2013-2019. 2013-2019. Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2013. 2013.

1010DEPI DEPI (2013) (2013) Improving Improving ourour Waterways: Waterways: Victorian Victorian Waterway Waterway Management Management Strategy. Strategy. Victorian Victorian Government, Government, Melbourne. Melbourne.

FIGURES FIGURES

2424CSIRO, CSIRO, Climate Climate Change Change and and water water availability availability in in south-eastern south-eastern Australia: Australia: A synthesis A synthesis of of findings findings from from phase phase 2 of 2 of thethe South South Eastern Eastern Australian Australian Climate Climate Initiative Initiative (SEACI), (SEACI), CSIRO, CSIRO, 2012. 2012.

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CONTENTS

Figure 11. Priority waterways and seasonal herbaceous wetland priority areas within Waterway Management Areas ............................. 65 Figure 12. Priority areas for intervention identified in the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019 ................................................. 66 Figure 13. Glenelg Hopkins CMA sub-catchments overlaid with Waterway Management Areas .... 66 Figure 14. Simplified program logic for the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy .................................. 67 Figure 15. Example of the three levels of targets set for vegetation resource condition ....................... 68 Figure 16. Coastal Waterway Management Area indicating priority rivers and estuaries................ 74 Figure 17. Wetland complexes in the Coastal Waterway Management Area ............................... 92 Figure 18. Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches ............................ 106

TABLES Table 1.

Wetland condition of selected wetlands based on 2009 IWC scores .................................... 17

Table 2.

Flagship species in Glenelg Hopkins waterways .................................................................. 19

Table 3.

Summary of achievements of implementation targets in RRHS & Addendum 2004-2011 ......... 24

Table 4.

Example using AVIRA to score waterway asset values and scores........................................... 57

Table 5.

Priority river reaches in each Waterway Management Area ................................................... 60

Table 6.

Priority wetlands in each Waterway Management Area ................................................... 61

Table 7.

Priority estuaries in the coastal waterway management area .................................................... 62

Table 8.

Brucknell Creek (reach 36-13) work program ... 75

Table 9.

Merri River (reach 36-38) work program ............ 76

Figure 19. Wetland complexes in the Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area ............................. 114

Table 10. Surry River (reaches 37-03, 37-04 and 37-05) work program............................................................ 77

Figure 20. Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area indicating priority rivers reaches .............. 132

Table 11. Fitzroy River (reach 37-07) work program.......... 80 Table 12. Darlot Creek (reach 37-09) work program ......... 81

Figure 21. Wetland complexes in the Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area ............................. 142

Table 13. Eumeralla River (reach 37-11) work program.... 82

Figure 22. Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches ............................ 149

Table 15. Moleside Creek (reach 38-14) work program ... 83

Table 14. Moyne River (reach 37-16) work program ......... 83

Figure 23. Priority wetlands in the Upper Hopkins Management Area ................................................. 152

Table 16. Hopkins River estuary (reach 36-201) work program............................................................ 84

Figure 24. Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches ............................ 159

Table 17. Merri River estuary (reach 36-238) work program............................................................ 85

Figure 25. Priority wetlands in the Volcanic Plain Management Area ................................................. 161

Table 18. Wattle Hill Creek estuary (reach 37-201) work program............................................................ 86

Figure 26. Wannon Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches ...................................... 169

Table 19. Surry River estuary (reach 37-203) work program............................................................ 87

Figure 27. Wetlands in the Wannon Waterway Management Area ................................................. 180

Table 20. Fitzroy River estuary (reach 37-206) work program............................................................ 88

Figure 28. Waterway Management District boundaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region...... 194

Table 21. Lake Yambuk (reach 37-211) work program ...... 89

Figure 29. Designated drainage schemes within the Glenelg Hopkins region ................................ 196 Figure 30. The eight-year adaptive management cycle of the Victorian Waterway Management Program and regional waterway strategies..... 197 Figure 31. Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) and RAP applicants in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA area ............................................................................ 202

Table 22. Moyne River estuary (reach 37-216) work program............................................................ 90 Table 23. Glenelg River estuary (reach 38-201) work program............................................................ 91 Table 24. Long Swamp wetland complex ............................ 93 Table 25. Long Swamp Wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20501, 20502, 20613 and 20614) work program ..................................... 94

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CONTENTS

TABLES (CONTINUED)

Table 46. Wando River (reach 44) work program ............. 141

Table 26. Bridgewater Lakes wetland complex .................. 97

Table 47. Dergholm (Youpayang) wetland complex ........ 143

Table 27. Bridgewater Lakes wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20561, 20562, 20563 and 20565) work program ..................................... 98

Table 48. Dergholm wetlands complex (inc. wetlands 22985, 22994, 23000, and 23003) work program.......................................................... 146

Table 28. Tower Hill wetland complex ................................ 100

Table 49. Beniagh Swamp (wetland 23078) work program.......................................................... 136

Table 29. Tower Hill wetland complex (inc. Wetlands 25630, 25632 and 25638) work program......... 101 Table 30. Lake Condah wetland complex .......................... 103 Table 31. Lake Condah wetland complex (wetland 23598) work program .......................... 104 Table 32. Summary of key works and outputs for the Coastal Waterway Management Area .............. 104 Table 33. Glenelg River (reaches 38-02, 38-03, 38-04, 38-05, 38-06) work program ............................... 107 Table 34. Crawford River (reach 38-15 and 38-16) work program.......................................................... 111 Table 35. Stokes River (reaches 38-20, and 38-21) work program.......................................................... 112 Table 36. Mundi-Selkirk wetland complex ......................... 115 Table 37. Mundi-Selkirk wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20137, 20911, 20965, 21063, 21088, 21103, 21154, 21167, 21186, 21229, 21243, 21852, 22953, and 22957) work program.......................................................... 116 Table 38. Lindsay-Werrikoo wetland complex .................. 123 Table 39. Lindsay-Werrikoo wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20158, 21131, 21136, 21166, 21180, 21657, 21752 and 20568) work program.......................................................... 124 Table 40. Grassy Flats Swamp (wetland 20568) work program.......................................................... 128

Table 51. Moora Moora Reservoir (wetland 27669) work program.......................................................... 147 Table 52. Rocklands Reservoir (wetland 27675) work program.......................................................... 148 Table 53. Summary of key works and outputs for Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area ............. 148 Table 54. Mt Emu Creek (reach 36-22) work program.......................................................... 150 Table 55. Trawalla Creek (reach 36-23) work program ... 151 Table 56. Lake Muirhead ........................................................ 153 Table 57. Lake Muirhead (wetland 31808) work program.......................................................... 154 Table 58. Mount William Swamp .......................................... 155 Table 59. Mount William Swamp (wetland 31816) work program.......................................................... 156 Table 60. Cockajemmy Lakes wetland complex ............... 157 Table 61. Cockajemmy Lakes wetland complex work program.......................................................... 158 Table 62. Summary of key works and outputs in the Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area ........................................................................... 158 Table 63. Mt Emu Creek (reach 36-17) work program.... 160

Table 41. Boiler Swamp wetland complex ......................... 130

Table 64. Woorndoo-Hopkins wetland complex .............. 162

Table 42. Boiler Swamp wetland complex (inc. wetlands 22937 and 22935) work program ...................... 121

Table 65. Woorndoo-Hopkins wetland complex (inc. wetlands 29078, 29086 and 29106) work program.......................................................... 163

Table 43. Tullich Swamp (wetland 21141) work program.......................................................... 131 Table 44. Summary of key works and outputs for Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area ........................................................................... 131 Table 45. Glenelg River (reaches 38-07, 38-08, 38-09, 38-10, 38-11, 38-12 and 38-13) work program.......................................................... 133

Table 50. Victoria Lagoon (wetland 27624) work program.......................................................... 147

Table 66. Lake Elingamite (wetland 32200) work program.......................................................... 164 Table 67. Lake Bookar (part of the Western District Lakes Ramsar site) .................................................. 165 Table 68. Lake Bookar (wetland 32240) work program â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also refer to Section 2.7.1 and Western District Lakes Ramsar Site work program in Corangamite Regional Waterway Strategy ..... 166

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Table 69. Nerrin Nerrin wetlands complex ........................ 167

APPENDICES

Table 70. Nerrin Nerrin wetlands complex work program.......................................................... 168

Appendix 1.

Table 71. Summary of works and outputs for the Volcanic Plains Waterway Management Area ........................................................................... 168

Summary of consultation process used to develop Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy ............................................................ 201

Appendix 2.

Table 72. Wannon River (reaches 38-22, 38-23, 38-24, 38-25, 38-26 and 38-28) work program.......................................................... 170

Waterway values and priorities identified in consultation with registered aboriginal parties ........................................... 202

Appendix 3.

Glenelg Hopkins recreational fisheries management priorities.................................. 207

Table 73. Miakite Creek (reach 38-30) work program..... 176

Appendix 4.

Relevant legislation........................................ 209

Table 74. Grange Burn Creek (reaches 38-35 and 38-37) work program .................................... 177

Appendix 5.

Management planning for Lake Bookar in the Western District Lakes Ramsar site...................................................................... 211

Table 76. Bryan Swamp........................................................... 181

Appendix 6.

AVIRA VALUES ................................................ 214

Table 77. Bryan Swamp (wetland 26609) work program.......................................................... 182

Appendix 7.

Threats to rivers, estuaries and wetlands considered in the priority setting process using AVIRA ....................... 215

Appendix 8.

AVIRA metrics/categories and scores required for waterways to be classified as high value .................................................... 216

Appendix 9.

High Value rivers, estuaries and wetlands in the Glenelg Hopkins region ................................................................ 218

Table 75. Dwyer Creek (reach 38-40) work program ...... 179

Table 78. Gooseneck Swamp ................................................ 183 Table 79. Gooseneck Swamp wetland complex (wetland 26718) work program .......................... 184 Table 80. Lake Linlithgow wetland complex ..................... 185 Table 81. Lake Linlithgow wetland complex (inc. wetlands 26740, 26766 and 26815) work program.......................................................... 186 Table 82. Summary of key outputs and works in the Wannon Waterway Management Area ............ 188 Table 83. Overall budget by waterway management area for the eight-year regional work program.......................................................... 189 Table 84. Agencies and partners and their roles and responsibilities with delivering the strategy.... 191

Appendix 10. Using goals to prioritise river and estuary reaches ............................................... 242 Appendix 11. Using goals to prioritise wetlands.............. 243 Appendix 12. Priority waterways and links to the regional goals .................................................. 244 Appendix 13. Regional Condition Targets and their relevant waterway assets.............................. 250

Copyright This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Disclaimer The content of Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority does not give any guarantees, undertakings or warranties concerning the accuracy or completeness of the information in this publication and therefore disclaims all liability from error, loss or other consequences that may arise from reliance on the publication. Design & Production: gsdm.com.au

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CHAIR’S FOREWORD

CHAIR’S FOREWORD As a long-term resident who enjoys the benefits of our rivers, coast and wetland s, I am proud to release the 2014-2022 Glenel g Hopkins Waterway Strategy to the community.

his strategy follows the release of the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy in 2013, which provides the framework and policy direction for the management of rivers, estuaries and wetlands in the Glenelg Hopkins region and supports their current and future environmental, social, cultural and economic values. Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy also aligns with the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-19 that provides a planning framework for water and biodiversity in the Glenelg Hopkins region. The strategy was developed by Glenelg Hopkins CMA in partnership with regional agencies involved in natural resource management, Traditional Owners, regional communities and other key stakeholders. The CMA recognises that community input and participation are essential to ensure that planning and implementation take account of the values the community places on waterways in the region. This strategy replaces the Glenelg Hopkins River Health Strategy 2004-2009 and its associated addendum in 2010. The new strategy makes a number of improvements on the previous strategy, including a more integrated approach to waterway management that includes estuaries and wetlands. The drought and floods that have occurred over the past ten years have also necessitated a more flexible and adaptable approach to waterway management.

This strategy builds on a number of achievements of the previous strategy. Notable accomplishments include the Glenelg River Restoration Project, which was recently awarded the prestigious national environmental award – the Australian Riverprize. The CMA worked with agencies and communities in this project to complete 1,600 km of riparian fencing and plant more than half a million trees in the Glenelg basin. The creation of an environmental entitlement for the Glenelg River and the establishment of water delivery structures were significant achievements which will benefit the river and its downstream communities. This strategy identifies high value waterways and priority management actions which will be undertaken over the next eight years. A regional work program has been included to guide investment and improve or maintain the values of these waterways. It is designed to be a practical document that will guide regional communities and agencies to improve our waterways, now and in the future.

Mike Wagg Chair Glenelg Hopkins CMA Board

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ABOUT THE STRATEGY

ABOUT THE STRATEGY The Draft Glenel g Hopkins Waterway Strategy 2014-2022 (GHWS) provides a single planning document for river, estuary and wetland management in the Glenel g Hopkins region.

evelopment and implementation of the strategy delivers on key elements of the state-wide management approach for waterway management as outlined in the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy 2013 (VWMS). The GHWS was developed by the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority (CMA) in partnership with regional agencies and boards involved in natural resource management, along with Traditional Owners, regional communities and other key stakeholders. The GHWS outlines regional goals for waterway management that align with the objectives for waterways described in the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019 (RCS). High value waterways were identified and, from these, a subset of priority waterways was determined for the eight-year planning period 2014-2022. A strategic regional work program of management activities for priority waterways was developed to guide investment over this eight-year period. The strategy also identifies regional priorities for environmental water management over the eight-year planning period, together with the complementary management activities required at these sites. Implementation of management activities will improve or maintain the health of the region’s rivers, estuaries and wetlands and contribute significantly to the community’s use and enjoyment of waterways.

The regional work program will provide clear direction to guide investment in waterway management. These work priorities will provide guidance to the CMA, Victorian, local and Australian governments, community groups and private or philanthropic donors about where investment is required in the region over an eight-year period. This strategy provides investors with confidence that their annual funding of management activities is linked to a longer-term, strategic plan and leads to improvements in waterway health. The content required for waterway strategies was outlined in guidelines published by the then Department of Sustainability and Environment and guidance notes developed in partnership with CMA waterway managers. The strategy is guided by the direction and principles outlined in the VWMS. Drawing on the experience gained and lessons learned during the implementation of the Glenelg Hopkins River Health Strategy 2004-2009 and addendum, this new strategy will: • improve the integrated waterway management planning framework • incorporate estuaries and wetlands in regional waterway planning arrangements • improve the regional priority setting process • incorporate increased ﬂexibility for responding to varying climatic conditions • better integrate environmental water management with other waterway management activities.

Below left: Seasonal wetlands in the Wannon region. Below right: Magpie Goose. Photo: Rob Drummond

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ABOUT THE STRATEGY

STRATEGY OVERVIEW Part A: REGIONAL OVERVIEW AND STRATEGIC CONTEXT PART A OV E RV I E W R EGI O N A L EXT EGI C C O N T A N D ST RAT

• Describes waterways in the Glenelg Hopkins region • Outlines the process for strategy development including incorporation of community and Indigenous values • Identiﬁes key legislation and policy • Discusses learnings and achievements from the previous river health strategy See page 9.

PART B S ES N T R ES P O N M A N AG E M E E ATS -WIDE THR TO R EGI O N

Part B: MANAGEMENT RESPONSES TO REGION-WIDE THREATS • Provides an overview of broad management issues relevant to the entire region and identifies appropriate management actions.

Photo: Rob McPherso

See page 31.

Part C: THE APPROACH USED IN WATERWAY PRIORITISATION PART C H USED IN T H E A P P R OAC T ISAT IO N P RIO RI WAT E RWAY

• Describes the strategy’s vision, goals and guiding principles • Describes the asset-based approach and use of the Aquatic Values Identification and Risk Assessment (AVIRA) tool for assessing environmental, social, cultural and economic values of waterways and risks to those values • Identiﬁes priority waterways and management regions

Photo: Rob McPherso

• Describes the program logic approach to identifying management objectives and high level management actions for priority waterways. See page 51.

Part D: REGIONAL WORK PROGRAM & STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION PART D WO R KS R EGI O N A L P R O G RA M

• Describes the process for developing targets including long-term resource condition targets (8+ years), management outcome targets (1-8 years) and management outputs (annually) • Describes the eight-year work plan for priority waterways in each of the six Waterway Management Areas to achieve targets • Describes the delivery approach and outlines monitoring, evaluation and reporting approach of strategy implementation. See page 69.

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PART A R EGIO N A L OV E RV I E W A N D ST RAT EGIC C O N T E X T

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PART A: REGIONAL OVERVIEW AND STRATEGIC CONTEXT

PART A: REGIONAL OVERVIEW AND STRATEGIC CONTEXT Part A provides a description of the waterways in the Glenelg Hopkins region and an outline of the process for strategy development, including incorporation of community and Indigenous values, identification of key legislation and policy, and learnings from the previous Regional River Health Strategy and Addendum.

SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART A

1.1 REGIONAL OVERVIEW

Describes the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region, basins and Waterway Management Areas. See page 11.

1.2 REGIONAL WATERWAYS

Describes key values associated with the region’s rivers, estuaries and wetlands; threats to those values and current conditions. See page 12.

1.3 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Outlines the process for community input to the strategy development including results of the flagship species survey and Fisheries Victoria workshop. See page 18.

1.4 INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S KNOWLEDGE AND INVOLVEMENT 1.5 STRATEGIC AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT 1.6 REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

Outlines the process of input to the strategy from Traditional Owners and incorporation of Indigenous cultural values. See page 20.

Describes the legislation and policy that informs and guides development of the strategy. See page 22.

Reviews implementation of the Regional River Health Strategy and Addendum; identifies key learnings and achievements. See page 24.

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REGIONAL OVERVIEW

1.1 REGIONAL OVERVIEW The Glenel g Hopkins region covers approximately 26,910 square kilometres, extending from Bal larat in the east to the South Australian border in the west, and from the southern coast of Victoria to the townships of Harrow and Ararat in the north.

ustralia has 12 major drainage divisions. The Glenelg Hopkins region falls within the South East Drainage Division and contains four main basins: Glenelg, Hopkins, Portland Coast and Millicent Coast. The Glenelg Hopkins regional boundary is based on the external boundary of the above four basins and the South Australian border (Figure 1 below). A small portion of the Glenelg River basin crosses the South Australian border and is not considered to be within the Glenelg Hopkins region boundary. The previous Regional River Health Strategy (RRHS) divided each basin into 32 smaller sub-catchments incorporating a smaller creek or river with consideration of surface water catchments, soil types and bioregions. To better align the GHWS with the Regional Catchment Strategy (RCS), the basins were consolidated into six Waterway Management Areas (WMAs).

The boundaries of the region include marine and coastal waters out to the state limit of three nautical miles. The Glenelg Hopkins region contains a number of natural waterway features that are of state, national and international significance, including: • Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape – including Mt Eccles, Lake Condah, and Tyrendarra area • Glenelg River – the lower section of the Glenelg River is one of 18 Heritage Rivers in Victoria as listed under the Heritage Rivers Act 1992 • Western District Ramsar Lakes – Lake Bookar is one of nine wetlands in the Western District Lakes Ramsar site, which is recognised as internationally important under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. The other eight wetlands are in the Corangamite region • Important Bird Areas (IBAs) (sites of global bird conservation importance) – Yambuk Lakes complex, Port Fairy to Warrnambool and Discovery Bay to Piccaninnie Ponds • Threatened ﬂora – 20 endangered Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs) and two nationally listed ecological communities; Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains and Temperate Coastal Saltmarsh.

Figure 1. Major river basins and Waterway Management Areas in the Glenelg Hopkins region

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1.2 GLENELG HOPKINS WATERWAYS 1.2.1

WATERWAY VALUES

Improving the environmental condition of waterways in priority areas is a critical task to sustain populations of native plants and animals, provide opportunities for recreation, protect cultural values, and support economic development through important industries such as tourism and agriculture (see Figure 2).

All waterways benefit the community by providing a range of products and processes collectively known as ecosystem services. Water for human and stock use and recreational fishing contribute greatly to the region’s use and enjoyment of waterways. Processes such as decomposition, and filtering and transport of nutrients promote healthy waterways and support waterway’s environmental, social, cultural and economic values.

Figure 2. The drivers of environmental condition that support the values of waterways1

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1.2.2

RIVERS

The Glenelg River is the largest river in south-west Victoria and contains some of the best condition river reaches in the region. The Glenelg basin contains more than 150 threatened to near-threatened species and ecological communities and falls within one of 15 listed ‘biodiversity hotspots’ in Australia, and one of only two in Victoria. Significant tributaries of the Glenelg River include the Wannon, Chetwynd, Stokes, Crawford and Wando rivers. The four main catchments within the Portland Coast basin are the Moyne, Eumeralla-Shaw system, Darlot Creek – Fitzroy River system and the Surry River. These are relatively short rivers, which drain the immediate inland areas and flow to the Southern Ocean. The Hopkins River is a major waterway draining the eastern part of the region and enters the Southern Ocean at Warrnambool. The Hopkins basin is largely cleared and used for agriculture. The Hopkins River estuary reach is one of three premier river reaches under the Go Fishing in Victoria Program, selected for their existing high recreational fisheries values. The Merri River, and the Fiery and Mt Emu creeks are other significant waterways within the Hopkins basin. All basins have high value environmental reaches, which support rare and threatened fauna and flora. The region’s rivers support a range of social values including fishing, boating, camping, swimming, picnicking and bushwalking. Rivers contribute to the region’s economy and are valued for the supply of water for agriculture, sand mining, drinking water, tourism and fishing.

1.2.3

ESTUARIES

Estuaries, where rivers meet the sea, are an important link between catchments, coasts and the marine environment. There are eight major estuaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region: Glenelg River estuary, Fawthrop Lagoon, Surry River estuary, Fitzroy River estuary, Yambuk Lake, Moyne River estuary, Merri River estuary and the Hopkins River estuary. Estuaries are highly dynamic and productive systems that support a rich and diverse array of wildlife and unique wetland vegetation communities. They provide key spawning and nursery grounds for many species of fish and drought refuge and critical breeding and foraging areas for birds. Estuaries also play a pivotal role in maintaining water quality through nutrient and sediment filtering. Estuaries of the region also support significant numbers of threatened species listed under state and national legislation. Most estuaries within the region close intermittently following the formation of a sand bar at the estuary mouth. Both Moyne estuary and the smaller outlet associated with Fawthrop Lagoon are artificially kept permanently open. Several estuaries are recognised at national and international levels for their environmental significance. The Glenelg River estuary is listed as a Heritage River under the Heritage Rivers Act 1992 (Vic) and as a wetland of national significance in the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia (DIWA). The Yambuk Lake complex, along with the Lower Merri River wetlands (Kellys and Saltwater swamps) are DIWA-listed wetlands. Estuaries provide important habitat for migratory bird species, which are protected under international agreements. Estuaries underpin key social, economic and cultural heritage values within south-west Victoria. They are a significant drawcard for tourism and are highly valued by the local and broader communities for scenic beauty, recreational fishing, swimming, camping, bird watching and boating.

Below left: Glenelg River. Below right: Hopkins River estuary.

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1.2.4

WETLANDS

The catchment has more than 5,400 wetlands, covering 73,000 ha or three per cent of the region’s area. This represents 14 per cent of Victoria’s total area of wetlands and 44 per cent of the state’s total number of wetlands.2 The region’s wetlands vary greatly, ranging from large and permanent freshwater lakes to small and ephemeral (non-permanent) freshwater meadows. Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands, which are ephemeral, isolated freshwater wetlands, are particularly well represented. This wetland type is listed as critically endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cwlth) (EPBC). Wetlands of the Glenelg Hopkins region are recognised as key areas for conservation under a number of international agreements. Lake Bookar, near Camperdown, is part of the Western District Lakes Ramsar Site, which is recognised under the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance3, while several other wetlands support migratory waterbird species listed under international bilateral migratory bird agreements with Japan, China and the Republic of Korea (JAMBA, CAMBA and ROKAMBA) and the Convention on Migratory Species. There are three Important Bird Areas (IBAs) including Yambuk Lakes complex IBA, Port Fairy to Warrnambool IBA, and Discovery Bay to Piccaninnie Ponds IBA. Sixteen of the region’s wetlands are DIWA-listed. Wetlands are integral to healthy ecosystems in the region’s landscape. They receive runoff, absorb and filter floodwaters, replenish groundwater reserves, act as direct surface water supplies and are important drought refuges for wildlife. Wetlands are also of great social and economic value to the region, supporting some of the most significant recreational attractions in the area including boating, fishing, camping, swimming and sightseeing. Further details of the natural waterway assets associated with each of the six Waterway Management Areas are provided in Part D.

1.2.5

THREATS TO WATERWAY VALUES

The type and extent of threats to the region’s rivers, estuaries and wetlands are often associated with current or historic land use adjacent to the waterway and in the broader catchment. A large proportion of the Portland and Hopkins basins is used for agriculture, with grazing and cropping in the north of the region and dairy in the south. The Glenelg basin is predominantly used for grazing and timber production with much of the southern part of the basin in National or State parks. Specific threats to waterways in each Waterway Management Area are documented in Part D. However, some threats such as erosion, nutrient inputs, pest plants and animals, altered flows and climate change are widespread and impact the entire region. Across the Glenelg Hopkins region, river values and condition are often compromised by erosion and sedimentation, particularly where catchments have been cleared and stock can directly access the waterway. Increased nutrient loads in waterways as a result of uncontrolled stock access, agricultural fertilisers and urban stormwater runoff can cause blooms of blue-green algae that impact on regional communities and the economy. Pest plants can significantly reduce waterway values by decreasing river access for recreational activities and pest animals impact on native species by direct predation or competing for habitat and food. Water extraction, land use and river regulation can alter flow regimes. Climate change is predicted to result in longer periods of low flow to our waterways and more frequent extreme events such as floods, fire and drought. The 2004-2010 drought is believed to have impacted greatly on the Glenelg Hopkins and Wimmera regions, and was a significant factor in the lower than expected waterway condition results of the third Index of Stream Condition assessment (see 1.2.6).

Below left: Fraser Swamp. Below right: Stock access to waterways can lead to excess nutrients and increase in blue-green algae blooms.

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1.2.5

(CONTINUED)

Estuaries are dynamic and resilient systems, but face a range of threats from human and natural causes.4 The proximity of estuaries to coastal settlements exposes them to intense levels of recreation and social use. Predicted population growth in coastal areas will increase development pressure, particularly along waterways. The high value of coastal agricultural land contributes to the pressure on coastal land, including land adjacent to estuaries. The main threats to the region’s estuaries include inappropriate development and land use, riparian degradation, reduced water quality, exotic flora and fauna, bank and bed instability, stock access to riparian zones, and flow deviation. Unlicensed artificial estuary mouth openings can also have a negative impact on the form and function of estuaries. Estuaries and their associated wetland complexes are particularly susceptible to predicted climate change impacts, such as altered inundation and salinity regimes from altered flows and increased sea levels and storm events. The extent of wetlands in the region has declined by approximately 60 per cent since European settlement, primarily due to drainage and conversion to agriculture. Key threats to wetland values and condition in the Glenelg Hopkins region include drainage, stock grazing, cropping, pest plants, water extraction, nutrient enrichment and runoff and drift of pesticides and herbicides. Some threats are predicted to be exacerbated with climate change, with many wetlands undergoing extended dry periods and sea level rise likely to affect coastal wetlands.5,6 These threats are likely to lead to a decline in the condition of our waterways and loss of environmental, social, cultural and economic values.

1.2.6

CONDITION

The condition of waterways in the region varies from excellent to very poor, reflecting the level of modification of the waterway and types of use. Waterways in near natural condition with high environmental values are generally in National and State parks. Highly modified waterways are typically in urban areas or areas of intensive agriculture. These waterways often support economic values and recreational activities. River condition in Victoria is assessed using the Index of Stream Condition (ISC)7. The ISC measures the environmental condition of river reaches. The third ISC report8 provides a summary of river health for major rivers and streams in Victoria using data collected over a six-year period from 2004-2010. The report is a ‘snapshot’ and the measures are not designed for comparison of river health with previous ISC assessments. ISC3 results showed that stream condition varied considerably between the three basins in the region, with streams in the Glenelg basin being in best condition (see Figure 3). All reaches in good condition (14 per cent of reaches assessed) were in the Glenelg basin. Both the Glenelg and Portland basins had the majority of their stream length in moderate condition (68 per cent and 84 per cent respectively). The majority of stream length in the Hopkins basin was in poor condition (38 per cent) or very poor condition (56 per cent). This result is generally due to modified flow regimes, degraded riparian vegetation, poor bank condition and low water quality from elevated nutrients and salinity. It should be noted that the assessment coincided with a drought period, which was particularly severe in the Glenelg Hopkins region. These conditions impacted on several measures of the ISC, in particular water quality and hydrology.

Below left: Stock access to river banks can lead to bank erosion and loss of productive agricultural land. Below right: Gully erosion in the upper Glenelg catchments.

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1.2.5

(CONTINUED)

Figure 3. Condition of reaches in Glenelg, Portland and Hopkins basins based on the third ISC report

The Index of Wetland Condition (IWC) was developed by the Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) in November 2005 to measure the condition of wetlands across Victoria. The IWC measures aspects of a wetlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s soils, water, plants and its catchment. DEPI co-ordinated an IWC assessment of wetlands in Glenelg Hopkins region in 2009 (see Table 1).

The assessment revealed that the majority of the wetlands surveyed were in good to excellent condition with the exception of shallow freshwater meadows. Meadows are dry for extended periods and therefore more vulnerable to conversion to agricultural use. Of the wetlands that remain in the region, most are on private land. Many are accessed by stock, which reduces fringing vegetation, impacts on hydrology and affects natural processes.

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Table 1. Wetland condition of selected wetlands based on 2009 IWC scores

TYPE

WETLANDS SURVEYED (%) Proportion of all wetlands

Per cent surveyed

WETLAND CONDITION CATEGORY (NUMBER)

Percentage of all types surveyed

Excellent

Good

Insufficient data

Moderate

Poor

Deep freshwater marsh

12.3%

6.9%

27.0%

Shallow freshwater marsh

20.3%

4.1%

27.0%

Freshwater meadow

47.4%

2.5%

37.8%

Open water

13.9%

0.8%

3.8%

Permanent saline

1.5%

8.0%

3.8%

Semi permanent saline

4.5%

0.4%

0.5%

A Victorian Index of Estuary Condition (IEC) is currently in development and methods for assessing the health of Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estuaries are being trialled. The IEC will identify aspects of the estuary that are suitable for measuring ecological condition in a consistent and systematic way.

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

1.3 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION Waterways in the Glenelg Hopkins region have benefited from strong community involvement. Community members from a variety of industry, recreational and environment groups make a valuable contribution to waterway management in the Glenelg Hopkins region by volunteering their time, local knowledge and expertise.

ndividual land managers – often in conjunction with Landcare groups, community groups or with assistance from the CMA – undertake works that both protect waterway values and assist in farm management. In 2009, the My Victorian Waterway Survey was undertaken with over 7,000 Victorians participating. The results showed respondents in the Hopkins basin had the highest level of participation in waterway improvement activities across Victoria. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA has a strong relationship with research institutes and universities. These organisations increase our knowledge of waterway form and function and provide evidence to inform decision making and more effective management. This strategy was developed in close collaboration with community and government agencies. It utilises and builds on the extensive engagement undertaken during development of the Glenelg Hopkins RCS. Through the RCS consultation, the community identified many important rivers, estuaries and wetlands with high environmental, social, cultural and economic values.

Community input was encouraged in a variety of forums at different stages of the strategy development (see Appendix 1). Glenelg Hopkins CMA community advisory groups had significant input into the development of the vision and 20-year goals for the strategy, as well as commenting on earlier drafts of the strategy. Indigenous knowledge and values with regard to waterway management were incorporated through general community forums but also through discussions with members of each Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) or RAP Applicant (see Appendix 2). A community survey was used to identify flagship species for rivers, wetlands and estuaries for use in the AVIRA asset identification process. Input to the strategy was also encouraged in meetings with many community groups during the public comment period. The development of the GHWS provided an opportunity for fisheries managers, anglers and other interested groups to work together to develop project ideas for the management of our region’s recreational fishing waters for the next eight years. A workshop was convened by DEPI, in partnership with Glenelg Hopkins CMA, to identify areas of potential alignment between these priorities and broader river health works (see Appendix 3). Flagship species are plants and animals with important social values that are valued by the community. Promotion of flagship species brings to attention the need for conservation of both the individual species and its associated waterway habitat. Two species for each waterway type (rivers, estuaries and wetlands) were selected by the community (see Table 2). Waterways with these species are included in the waterway priority setting process.

Below left: Community members help plant trees in Portland. Below right: Landholders have made a significant contribution to protecting waterways.

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COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION

Table 2. Flagship species in Glenelg Hopkins waterways

WATERWAY TYPE: RIVERS Glenelg spiny cray Euastacus bispinosus – An endangered species found only in southwest Victoria and south-east South Australia; mainly found in the Grampians, Crawford River, Wannon River, Glenelg River and their tributaries. The species has seen a population decline across the entire species distribution area over the past century as a result of over-fishing, low environmental flows, habitat degradation and the introduction of invasive fish species.

River red gum Eucalyptus camaldulensis – A common and widespread tree found along waterways as well as scattered across the landscape. These trees are remnants of the woodlands that covered much of the Glenelg Hopkins region and south-east Australia. Mature river red gums can reach ages of several hundred years, and commonly grow on riverine sites and plains that receive periodic flooding. Isolated trees provide valuable habitat for wildlife across the landscape. Threats to river red gums include disease, lack of natural regeneration, changes to water regime, and land use change.

WATERWAY TYPE: ESTUARIES Black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri – Primarily an inhabitant of estuaries and coastal lakes. During the breeding season, the species penetrates into the upper reaches of rivers to spawn with juveniles returning to the estuaries. Southern black bream is a major target species for both commercial and amateur fishers. Black bream are potentially threatened by over-fishing, inappropriate artificial river mouth opening and poor water quality. Photo: D. Crooks.

Short-finned eel Anguilla australis – Has been a culturally and economically significant species in south-west Victorian waterways for thousands of years, valued by the Gunditjmara and the Djab Wurrung people from western Victoria, who farmed eels on a large scale. Eels migrate at maturity downstream to the sea, then up to 4,000 km to a spawning ground in the Coral Sea off New Caledonia. The larvae, or ‘glass eels’, return to estuaries and move upstream to reach maturity. Short-finned eels are potentially threatened by barriers to migration of adults and larvae, wetland drainage, overharvesting of adult eels and harvesting of larval eels for aquaculture.

WATERWAY TYPE: WETLANDS Brolga Grus rubicunda – Brolgas found in the western district live permanently in the area, mating for life. During the breeding season (July to December) they nest in freshwater meadows or shallow freshwater marshes across the region. Key threats are fox predation of chicks and loss of wetland habitat. Photo: R. Drummond.

Ancient greenling Hemiphlebia mirabilis – A small metallic green to bronze coloured damselfly. It is the only known species of the genus anywhere in the world and is commonly termed a ‘living fossil’. It is endemic to freshwater swamps, wetlands, billabongs and lagoons in south-east Australia and is often associated with seasonal water bodies that dry out in summer. The species’ populations are isolated across the landscape and vulnerable to ongoing threats from increased water demand, land clearing, draining of wetlands and habitat removal. Photo: A. Cordero.

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INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S KNOWLEDGE AND INVOLVEMENT

1.4 INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S KNOWLEDGE AND INVOLVEMENT Indigenous people have sustainably utilised the waterways in the Glenel g Hopkins region for at least the past 11,000 years and possibly more than 40,000 years.

ccess to water and healthy waterways is important for many cultural practices. The region’s rivers, estuaries and wetlands have been extensively used as sources of food, medicines, fibre and implements and this use is ongoing. There is physical evidence of historic use in the form of shell middens, oven mounds, stone quarries, fish traps and scarred trees.9 Some sites may have no observable features but are important for their intangible links to places of spiritual or ceremonial significance, resources, trade, travel or stories.10 The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic) recognises Aboriginal people ‘as the primary guardians, keepers and knowledge holders of Aboriginal cultural heritage’. Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) have important roles and functions in managing and protecting Aboriginal cultural heritage in Victoria. RAPs are determined by the Aboriginal Heritage Council. There are four recognised RAPs in the Glenelg Hopkins region: Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Martang Pty Ltd, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation and RAP applicant Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation.11 Indigenous communities also have a central role as land managers on Indigenous Protected Areas (IPAs) at the Dean Maar property on Lake Yambuk, and Lake Condah and Tyrendarra on the Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape. In addition, Mount Eccles National Park is Victoria’s first co-managed national park, being managed by the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation and Parks Victoria.

Indigenous communities’ approach to natural resource management is fundamentally holistic, with cultural values intrinsically linked to country. All waterways are viewed as key to cultural, spiritual, social and economic survival. Consistent with this perspective, Indigenous communities recognise the value of all waterways and, as such, all were scored using AVIRA to reflect high Indigenous cultural values (see section 3.3.1). Specific values and aspirations, identified during consultation with each Registered Aboriginal Party, are recorded in Appendix 2 and reflected in this strategy’s recommended actions.

ACTION 1-1: Develop an Indigenous cultural heritage procedure to guide field staff and landholders undertaking onground works to facilitate identification and protection of cultural heritage sites Who: Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Martang Pty Ltd, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, other traditional owner groups and Indigenous organisations

ACTION 1-2: Investigate opportunities to progress priority actions identified during consultation with each Registered Aboriginal Party (RAP) or RAP applicant (Appendix 2) Who: Glenelg Hopkins CMA, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, Martang Pty Ltd, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation and Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation, other traditional owner groups and Indigenous organisations

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INDIGENOUS PEOPLE’S KNOWLEDGE AND INVOLVEMENT

CAS E ST U DY : L A K E C O N DA H A N D DA R LOT C R E E K † Restoration of water to Lake Condah, a key site of Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape, was a long-held vision for Gunditjmara Traditional Owners. Lake Condah was drained in 1954 against the wishes of the Gunditjmara and surrounding landholders. Drainage of the lake damaged the ‘heart of Budj Bim’, and further injured fragile relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities of far south-western Victoria. To Gunditjmara, the seasonal rising and falling of water in Lake Condah was likened to the beating heart of the Budj Bim landscape. As waters rose with autumnal rains, so too wetlands along the Budj Bim landscape filled, and the eel ‘farming’ that enabled Gunditjmara people to establish a sustainable, sedentary community (amongst the first people in the development of human history to do so), continued. After 40 years of effort, construction of a weir restoring the lake in 2010 brought healing to the Gunditjmara landscape. The achievement was made possible by extensive community engagement and detailed scientific research of Darlot Creek catchment and Lake Condah.

The return of water to the lake now provides the community and scientists with an excellent opportunity to observe changes from earlier benchmarked data. The return of water to the lake also allows the traditional story in its broader Budj Bim context to be told to tourists and visitors, helping to generate economic activity for Gunditjmara through a world class tourism operation. This case study was sourced from the Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation application for the 2013 Australian Riverprize. GMTOAC was the first Indigenous group to be a finalist in this national award.

†

Below left: Black swans. Below right: Darlot Creek Lake Condah.

Photo: James Pevitt

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STRATEGIC AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT

1.5 STRATEGIC AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT The Victorian Waterway Management Strategy 2013 provides the framework for government, in partnership with the community, to manage rivers, estuaries and wetlands and support their environmental, social, cultural and economic values now and into the future.

he Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy is the cornerstone of regional planning for waterways. It delivers key elements of the state-wide management approach for rivers, estuaries and wetlands. Community input and participation is a critical element to ensure that regional planning reflects the community values of waterways in the region. The development of this strategy is a statutory requirement under the Water Act 1989 (Vic). The Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy (2013) identifies regional significant natural assets, sets 20-year condition objectives and regional priorities for land, water and biodiversity in the Glenelg Hopkins region. The GHWS is informed by the regional catchment strategy and other key strategic documents (see Figure 4). Roles and responsibilities of agencies and corresponding actions in the strategy are directed by a suite of state, national and international legislation (see Appendix 4). The principles and management direction of the GHWS aligns with the Ngootyoong Gunditj Ngootyoong Mara South West Draft Management Plan developed as a partnership between Parks Victoria Gunditjmara Traditional Owners and DEPI. The draft plan outlines priority environmental assets, goals and management strategies for the parks, reserves and Indigenous protected areas of south-west Victoria.

1.5.1

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Effective waterway management requires an integrated, co-ordinated approach between government agencies and authorities, water corporations, local government, Traditional Owners, community groups and individuals (see 4.9). The Glenelg Hopkins CMA, along with nine other CMAs, was established in 1997 by the Victorian Government, under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 (Vic) (CaLP Act), with the aim of creating a whole of catchment approach to natural resource management in the state. The primary goal of the Victorian CMAs is to ensure the protection and restoration of land and water resources, the sustainable development of industries based on natural resources, and the conservation of our natural and cultural heritage. Under Part 10 of the Water Act, CMAs are designated with specific responsibility for the management of waterways, drainage and floodplains. The range of functions that the CMA undertakes includes: • developing a regional waterway strategy and associated action plans • developing and implementing work programs • authorising works on waterways, acting as a referral body for planning applications and licences to take and use water • identifying regional priorities for environmental watering and facilitating water delivery • providing input to water allocation processes • developing and co-ordinating regional ﬂoodplain management plans • responding to natural disasters and incidents affecting waterways, such as floods • undertaking community participation and awareness programs.

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STRATEGIC AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT

1.5.1

(CONTINUED)

Legislation

Fauna & Flora Guarantee Act 1988

Catchment & Land Protection Act 1994

Victorian Waterway Management Strategy 2013

State Strategies

Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-19 Regional Strategies & Plans

Water Act 1989

Glenelg Hopkins Soil Health Strategy & Plan 2009-2014 Glenelg Hopkins Wetland Status Report 2006

Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy 2011

Coastal Management Act 1995

Environment Protection Act 1970

Victorian Coastal Strategy 2008

State Environment Protection Policy Waters of Victoria

South West Coastal Action Plan & South West Estuaries Coastal Action Plan

Estuary Management Plans Hopkins; Merri; Moyne; Yambuk; Fitzroy; Surry; Glenelg

Glenelg Hopkins Regional Invasive Animal Strategy 2010-15

Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy 2014-2022

Figure 4. Key legislation, strategies and plans and their relationship with the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

1.6 REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM 1.6.1

ACHIEVEMENTS

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA released its first Regional River Health Strategy (RRHS) in 2004 to guide investment in river health across the region. The strategy documented key principles, identified assets and threats associated with priority sub-catchments and included implementation targets to improve the health of rivers throughout the region. An addendum to the RRHS was produced in 2010 to update the implementation targets in response to changes in environmental conditions and policy direction such as the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy (2011).

The previous river health strategy and addendum were reviewed to evaluate progress towards achieving implementation targets. This review indicated that 100 per cent of priority implementation targets in the RRHS and 80 per cent of priority implementation targets in the addendum were achieved (see Table 3). A summary of key waterway projects undertaken across the region is shown in Figure 5.

Table 3. Summary of achievements of implementation targets in RRHS & Addendum 2004-2011

Combined RRHS & addendum implementation targets

Target

Achievement

Rivers with negotiated environmental flow regimes (number)

Environmental flow regimes improved (number of rivers)

Fish barriers removed (number)

Remnant vegetation fenced (km)

497

1,423

Pest plants treated (ha)

891

2,129

Riparian zones revegetated with indigenous vegetation (ha)

625

2,512

7.5

Stream bank stabilised through erosion control structures (km)

In-stream habitat improved through large wood installation (km)

Below left: Large woody debris installation in Glenelg River. Below right: Sand extraction at Casterton.

Photo: Brian Murrell

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

AC H I E V E M E N TS I N RI V E R M A N AG E M E N T 2013 AUSTRALIAN RIVERPRIZE In 2013 Glenelg Hopkins CMA was awarded the Australian Riverprize by the International River Foundation for the Glenelg River Restoration Project. Riverprize gives recognition, reward and support to those who have developed and implemented outstanding, visionary and sustainable programs in river management. Funded by the Australian Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water for the Future initiative through the Water Smart Australia program, the $200,000 Australian Riverprize is the largest prize for environmental achievement in the country. From 2000 to 2013, 628 landholders completed the largest riparian project in Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history.

The restoration project planted more than half a million trees, direct seeded 770 km of waterway frontage and fenced 1,600 km along the Glenelg River and its tributaries. Other achievements of the program included 2,000 ha of cross-tenure weed control, 870 pieces of large wood installed for habitat, removal of fish barriers, opening of 270 km of the Glenelg River to fish movement, and the establishment and delivery of an environmental flows entitlement. The resulting river health improvements were demonstrated by water quality improvements and the recovery of native fish populations, which dramatically increased in the Glenelg River.

The Glenelg Hopkins CMA and the Glenelg River community were awarded the Australian Riverprize.

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

AC H I E V E M E N TS I N E ST UA RY M A N AG E M E N T Since the release of the River Health Strategy, the CMA has addressed many of the strategic planning gaps identified for estuaries. Estuary management plans were developed for the Hopkins, Merri, Yambuk, Fitzroy, Surry and Glenelg estuaries and the CMA provided input to the plan for the Moyne River estuary developed by Moyne Shire Council. All estuaries in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region are naturally intermittently closed estuaries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with the exception of the Moyne estuary and Fawthrop Lagoon, which are kept open. A key action in the estuary management plans was the development of a risk-based tool to guide estuary managers when deciding whether or not to artificially open an estuary.

The Estuary Entrance Management Support System (EEMSS) database was developed in 2006 by Glenelg Hopkins CMA in partnership with other agencies. The EEMSS considers the social, economic and environmental values of each estuary and the likely impact of opening and not opening at different times of the year and at different water levels. The EEMSS was recently modified to be web-based and is now available to all coastal CMAs.

Surry River estuary.

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

AC H I E V E M E N TS I N W E T L A N D M A N AG E M E N T An Australian Government report12 noted that while the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region had the highest number of wetlands of any Victorian CMA region, the CMA also had the lowest percentage of landholders protecting wetlands. The CMA in conjunction with the community developed a Regional Wetland Status Report in 2006 to document and recognise wetland values in the region and provide direction to wetland management. Since the release of this document, the CMA has run three wetland tenders and one grassland tender to protect high priority wetlands. The regional community and the CMA played an important part in the nomination and recent EPBC-listing of the Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands of the Lowland Temperate Plain. Future wetland projects will focus on this important wetland community across the Glenelg Plain and Victorian Volcanic Plain.

This drain altered the wetland hydrology bringing forward and extending the drying phase and potentially impacting waterbirds, the Wimmera bottlebursh and other wetland values. A digital elevation model (based on LiDAR topographical data) and ground survey were completed and a temporary sand-bag weir structure was put in place by community volunteers. Inundation of the wetland and wildlife response was monitored over spring 2013. Vegetation, bird and frog monitoring is taking place to determine if a more permanent structure is required. Initial monitoring has shown a 20-45 cm water level rise in Gooseneck Swamp, re-activation of the natural flow path between the two swamps and inundation of adjacent floodplain vegetation communities containing the Wimmera bottlebrush.

Over the last two years Nature Glenelg Trust (NGT) has coordinated wetland restoration projects on private and public land across south-east South Australia and southwest Victoria. Hydrology has been restored in a number of wetlands, mainly through temporary or permanent blocking (regulating the water level) of artificially constructed drains from wetland areas. One such project, at Gooseneck Swamp in the Grampians National Park, has generated much community interest and involvement. The swamp contains the most significant population of the nationally endangered Wimmera bottlebrush, and nationally threatened growling grass frogs are also abundant. Gooseneck Swamp was first drained into Bradyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swamp over 50 years ago.

Gooseneck Swamp.

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

GLENELG RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT

ENVIRONMENTAL WATER

During 2000-2013, 628 landholders planted more than half a million trees and direct seeded 770 km of waterway frontage and fenced 1,600 km along the Glenelg River and its tributaries. Other achievements include completion of six Waterway Action Plans, removal of fish barriers, management of carp and opening 270 km of the Glenelg River to fish movement.

Environmental Water Reserves and infrastructure upgrades along the Glenelg River will realise the full benefits of the Wimmera Pipeline Project. Works included two outlet upgrades and installation of carp screens at Rocklands Reservoir for more efficient environmental water delivery. Environmental flows have reduced salinity levels by up to 80 per cent at some sites, estuary perch have expanded in range by 160 km and variegated pygmy perch have increased by 150 per cent.

CASTERTON COMMUNITY RIVER RESTORATION PROJECT Restoration works undertaken in conjunction with the Friends of the Glenelg River, Victorian Government and Glenelg Shire. Works include sand extraction, installation of 870 pieces of large wood for fish habitat, revegetation, community engagement events and the creation of the Kelpie Trail to reconnect the community back to the waterway.

WESTERN GLENELG WETLANDS Stewardship payments to private landowners to conserve unique wetlands on fossil sand dunes.

GLENELG ALLIANCE A major partnership project addressing priority pest plant and animal threats on 34,603 ha of public and private land in the Lower Glenelg High Ecological Value Ecosystem region.

RESTORING LAKE CONDAH Lake Condah, a significant cultural icon of the Gunditjmara people, was re-established. A weir was constructed across a channel that drained the lake. As a result of heavy rainfall, Land Condah water levels improved and the wetland is now a haven for wildlife. The Gunditjmara people now operate an ecotourism business at Lake Condah.

SALTMARSH TENDER Project working with landholders to protect coastal saltmarsh and orange-bellied parrot habitat. 160 ha protected in the Glenelg Hopkins region.

CREATING COASTAL CONNECTIONS Developing projects with community groups to protect waterways, wetlands and terrestrial habitat along the coast.

Figure 5. Key waterway project achievements in the Glenelg Hopkins region

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

THE GRANGE BURN WETLAND

WETLAND RESTORATION

Project transformed 14 ha of grazing land into a constructed wetland system to treat 70 per cent of Hamiltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storm water before it enters the Grange Burn. This system has resulted in significant reduction in litter and contaminants in the waterway, vital habitat for birds and provided an important recreational asset to the town.

Nature Glenelg Trust (NGT) coordinated wetland restoration projects on private and public land across south-west Victoria. Hydrology has been restored in a number of wetlands, such as Gooseneck Swamp in the Grampians National Park.

SEASONAL HERBACEOUS WETLANDS The Victorian Volcanic Plains are a hotspot for the recently EPBC listed Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands. 473 ha has been recently protected under the Grassland Tender program.

BEYOND BOLAC CATCHMENT ACTION GROUP Active community group that has undertaken extensive river and catchment health projects with a central focus on Fiery Creek and Lake Bolac.

WETLANDS OF THE WANNON CMA and landowner partnerships have led to changed grazing regimes for the protection of 465 ha of seasonal wetland.

HEROS PROGRAM River restoration programs along Fiery Creek and Mt Emu Creek have fenced 23 km of waterway.

FLOOD RECOVERY ASSISTANCE

PLANNING FOR HEALTHY ESTUARIES Estuary management plans, mapping and an estuary entrance management support system were developed to improve the health and management of estuaries.

Glenelg Hopkins CMA works crews installed 64 km of new fences, repaired or cleaned 127 km of riparian fences, revegetated 61 ha and eradicated 211 of weeds. National Disaster and Recovery Relief Arrangements (NDRRA) funded works to repair more than 50 sites, most of which were flood damaged erosion control structures.

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REVIEW OF PREVIOUS RIVER HEALTH STRATEGY AND ADDENDUM

1.6.2

KEY LEARNINGS FROM THE REVIEW

The management of rivers, estuaries and wetlands in Victoria is conducted within an adaptive management framework. At the core of adaptive management is the ability to learn from previous experience and update management approaches to reflect the knowledge gained during implementation. Although two targets were not achieved, both demonstrate the importance of evaluating and adapting programs to ensure effective delivery. While only 87 per cent of the targeted amount of stream banks was stabilised through erosion control structures, the CMA’s waterway action plans identified that fencing waterways to stabilise river banks was more cost effective than using costly hard engineering solutions. Under-achievement of the RRHS target for improving in-stream habitat through large wood installation (27 per cent) was due to concern over the potential risk that large wood might pose to the community and river infrastructure. This risk necessitated the development of a risk treatment plan and implementation of this plan before any further in-stream projects were undertaken across the region. Other RRHS targets were over-achieved, particularly fencing remnant vegetation (286 per cent), treating pest plants (239 per cent) and revegetating riparian zones (401 per cent). Much of this has been attributed to the waterway action plan approach and new incentive scheme implemented six years ago, which have increased project sizes from 5 ha to 16 ha on average, with cost per hectare decreasing by 20 per cent, thus freeing up funding for further on-ground works. The review also identified a number of specific issues with the previous strategy. These are as follows: • State Environment Protection Policies (SEPP) guidelines were not appropriate for water quality targets • timeframes for targets based on the Index of Stream Condition are unrealistic • ﬂow deviation is dependent on average rainfall, but average is not defined • water quality targets assumed that all dairies will be made EPA compliant; this is unlikely as the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) audit program has ended • DEPI (formerly DPI) ﬁsheries plan was not implemented. In most cases priority areas and reaches identified in the strategy were appropriate; however, at times it was found that unsuitable targets were set for some sub-catchments. Estimated costs were accurate in most cases, although potential cost increases also need to be taken into account. While the general format of the GHWS is similar to that of the RRHS, greater emphasis is now placed on using monitoring evaluation, reporting and improvement (MERI) principles. The vision and goals from the previous strategy were sound; however, most could not be used to guide priorities or delivery mechanisms for implementation.

The information used to develop and implement the RRHS was appropriate; however, there was no use of MERI principles such as ‘program logic’ to show the explicit links between goals, resource condition targets (RCTs) and onground activities. Having solid program logic and more-realistic goals will also give the new strategy greater credibility and relevance to planners. The RRHS was deemed difficult to use as a reporting standard (for annual condition reporting) as many goals were unrealistic. It is expected that on-ground works carried out as directed by the RRHS would have generally improved river health in our region while achieving many RCTs outlined in the strategy. However a number of RCTs, particularly those concerned with water quality improvements, did not have realistic timeframes or could not reasonably be expected to be influenced by the scale of works undertaken by the CMA and its partners. Targets for the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy will now use conceptual models and clear program logic processes (see Section 3.6). This approach will ensure that RCTs will be achievable in the timeframes ascribed by the strategy, and measures will be those that can be influenced by the suggested activities. Efficiencies will be gained by having explicit links between annual reporting to investors and targets in the strategy. During implementation of the RRHS, there were major climatic events that impacted on the ability to deliver on the RRHS and addendum and necessitated a shift in priorities. The region was declared to be in drought between 2004 and 2010. Lower rainfall led to significantly reduced flows in the region’s waterways. The Glenelg River had an estimated 65 per cent reduction in annual flow from 2004-0812, having a profound impact on the geomorphology, biodiversity functions and ecological recovery processes of the waterway. Environmental Drought Response Plans developed by CMAs in 20062007, identified key drought refuge sites. This plan guided the CMA Dry Inflow Contingency Plans (DICPs). DICPs recognised the limited ability of the CMA to increase flow to these sites and recommended increasing the waterway’s resilience by minimising the impact of other stressors using activities such as riparian fencing. The region experienced floods in late 2010 and early 2011 causing extensive inundation of agricultural land, with subsequent erosion and damage to fencing, pasture, crops and creek crossings. These floods highlighted the importance of an adaptive and flexible approach to waterway management; this adaptive approach is incorporated into the GHWS. The CMA employed 18 people for flood relief crews in 2011 to undertake flood recovery work. Crews were based in Hamilton, Warrnambool and Ararat. The project protected public infrastructure by cleaning up debris. It also protected environmental assets, such as high value river reaches, by undertaking NRM works to address major threats such as erosion and invasive plants and animals. The Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements Program also funded additional support for flood affected communities.

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PART B

Photo: Rob McPherson

M A N AG E M E N T R ES P O N S ES TO R EGIO N - W I D E T H R E ATS

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PART B: MANAGEMENT RESPONSES TO REGION-WIDE THREATS

PART B: MANAGEMENT RESPONSES TO REGION-WIDE THREATS Part B provides an overview of management responses to issues that are relevant to the entire region. It notes policy direction provided by the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy and other relevant state and regional documents, describes current management arrangements and highlights improvements made within this strategy compared with the previous RRHS. Each section also identifies broad actions to be undertaken in the next eight years.

SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART B

2.1 PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

Identifies the main pest plants and animals in the region. Describes the approach used to prioritise treatment. See page 34. Describes the values and potential threats to surface water. Describes Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems and possible threats.

2.2 WATERWAY MANAGEMENT

Describes planning and implementation for delivery of environmental water. Discusses the use of alternative sources of water for environmental purposes. See page 37.

2.3 CLIMATE CHANGE

Outlines the potential impact of anticipated changes in waterway health as a result of climate change. See page 42.

2.4 EXTREME EVENTS

Describes the management issues associated with responses to extreme events such as bushfire and flood. See page 43.

2.5 ESTUARY MANAGEMENT

Describes issues associated with estuary management including management of artificial estuary openings. See page 44.

Below left: Bridgewater Lakes. Below right: Wetlands are a key feature of the Glenelg Hopkins landscape.

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SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART B

SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART B (CONTINUED) Outlines water quality monitoring undertaken in the region.

2.6 WATER QUALITY

Outlines incident management in response to events such as blue-green algal blooms and mass fish death events. Describes management issues associated with coastal acid sulfate soils. See page 45. Provides an overview of wetland management issues.

2.7 WETLANDS

Describes management planning for Lake Bookar in the Western District Lakes Ramsar site. See page 46.

2.8 RIVER CHANNEL

Describes threats to river channels and appropriate management responses, including installation of large wood, sand extraction and fish barrier removal. See page 48.

2.9 RIPARIAN LAND

Describes management of riparian land, with a focus on land status and river access. See page 49.

2.10 RECREATIONAL USE OF WATERWAYS

Describes the value of waterways for recreation, with a focus on management for recreational fishing and duck hunting. See page 50.

Below left: Waterways are important for recreational fishing. Below right: Fishways are important for fish dispersal and migration.

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PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

2.1 PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS The Glenel g Hopkins Regional Invasive Animal Strategy (2010-2015) 13 and Victoria’s Invasive Plants and Animals Policy Framework 14 identify key assets for protection and guidance for stakeholders and the general community in tackling invasive species.

he documents follow a ‘biosecurity’ approach to prioritising invasive species management programs (see Figure 6). This approach gives priority to programs preventing the introduction or eradication of newly establishing species over containment programs which reduce the impact of established species on assets. The asset-based protection approach is adopted once species have become so widespread that prevention, eradication or containment are no longer feasible options. Efforts are focused on the protection of high value assets from the degrading impacts of the invasive species.

Area occupied

Asset based protection

Containment

Eradication

Prevention

Time Species absent

Entry of invasive species

1:100 Prevention

Small number of localised populations

1:25 Eradication

Rapid increase in distribution and abundance, many populations

Invasive species widespread and abundant throughout its potential range

1:5-10 Containment

1:1-5 Asset based protection

Economic returns Figure 6. Generalised invasion curve showing actions appropriate to each stage15

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PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

Invasive animals declared under the CaLP Act such as rabbits and foxes are well established in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Feral goats and pigs are also present in the region but in smaller isolated populations. These declared invasive animals have caused widespread economic and environmental impact in the region and have significant potential for further impact through predation, over grazing and habitat destruction. Other invasive animals not declared under the CaLP Act such as feral cats, feral deer and carp also impact negatively on specific aquatic environments or native fauna and flora species associated with waterways. Carp monitoring efforts in the past have been restricted to a small number of sites along the Glenelg River. Although eradication efforts have removed some carp from the system, they have not been sufficient to prevent carp populations from increasing or carp from entering the high value lower reaches of the Glenelg River. A more targeted approach is required. Further research and monitoring will provide information about the behaviour of carp, which will enable more targeted and cost effective management of this species and a reduction of the threat it poses to waterway assets.

ACTION 2-1: Research and monitoring will be undertaken on carp to understand any predictable behaviours that can be used to more effectively manage carp populations in the Glenelg River and reduce the risk to native fish populations Who: CMA, research agencies, DEPI, angling groups

Weed species widespread in the regions include blackberry, cape tulip, polygala, and gorse. Pine wildlings are particularly prevalent in the Glenelg basin and willows are present along several waterways. Strong partnerships between agencies, community and (when applicable) industry, increase the effectiveness of weed management programs, particularly where weeds occur across different land tenures. Some recent examples of this successful approach include pine wildling removal in partnership with Parks Victoria, DEPI, Conservation Volunteers and timber companies; and Gorse control in partnership with the Upper Hopkins Land Management Group, DEPI, Victorian Gorse Taskforce and landholders.. Effective pest animal management requires a landscapescale cross tenure approach. Glenelg Ark16 and Grampians Ark are examples of long-term fox control programs to protect populations of native mammal prey species such as southern brown bandicoot, long-nosed potoroo, common brushtail possum and brush-tailed rock-wallaby on public land. The CMA coordinated the complementary Glenelg Alliance project which extended the fox baiting program to additional public land and adjacent private land in the Lower Glenelg area. Further opportunities will be sought to implement co-ordinated pest plant and animal control programs in the region.

ACTION 2-2: Liaise with agencies, industry and community to develop integrated, cross-tenure pest plant and animal control programs Who: DEPI, CMA, Parks Victoria, community groups, timber companies

Below left: Foxes have a significant impact on brolga chick survival. Below right: Carp are being researched to more effectively control this species in the Glenelg River.

Photo: Bob McPherson

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PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS

Awareness of aquatic invasive species is relatively low compared with that of widespread and clearly visible terrestrial pests. An increased level of awareness by the community and industry of the invasive species that affect waterways is important to: • prevent new incursions (for example, to reduce accidental introductions through aquarium releases or transporting invasive species on fishing gear and/or boats) • increase the capacity for surveillance of new invasive species • assist in control of invasive species.

There is an opportunity for the CMA to work with DEPI and community groups (such as recreational fishing bodies, Fishcare Victoria, EstuaryWatch, Landcare networks and approved hunting organisations) to raise awareness of the benefits of managing invasive species in waterways, particularly in preventing their release and minimising their spread. The community can play a role in early detection and reporting of incursions, enforcement and monitoring, and supporting rehabilitation efforts. These groups also play a significant role in reducing the risk of spread through recreational activities (such as boating and fishing), by promoting good hygiene practices.

ACTION 2-3: Increase community awareness regarding invasive species management in waterways Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, community groups

Below left: Water hyacinth is a very invasive aquatic weed. Below right: Willow removal.

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WATER MANAGEMENT

2.2 WATER MANAGEMENT Water security wil l be a key driver for capital investment and land use change in the region. Sustainable management of the region’s groundwater and surface water resources underpin the forecast residential, agricultural and industrial development of the region. As noted in the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy 18 , ‘The recent prolonged dry period and subsequent heavy flooding in many parts of the region demonstrated that water management needs to address climate variability’.

here may be significant pressures on future water use in the region from the combined impacts of population growth and climate change. Annual stream flows fell by 40, 56 and 65 per cent respectively in the Hopkins, Portland Coast and Glenelg basins during the 2004-2008 period of the drought. Drought remains a significant risk for the region and is likely to be more frequent than in the past. Other key pressures on water resources are from changing farm practices and altered land use in the region.

2.2.1

UNREGULATED SURFACE WATER

While unregulated rivers and wetlands are not affected by large water storages, their hydrology is altered by a range of diffuse impacts. Catchment clearing, construction of catchment dams, installation of drains and small weirs, and water extraction have dramatically impacted the flow dependent values of most waterways within the Glenelg Hopkins region. Managing the volume, rate, distribution and timing of water extraction from unregulated rivers, lakes and wetlands through Local Management Plans will help protect values within priority systems.

ACTION 2-4: Participate in development or review of local management plans for surface water for unregulated river and wetland systems identified in the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy Who: CMA, DEPI, SRW

Below left: Rocklands Reservoir. Below right: Blue gum plantation.

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WATER MANAGEMENT

2.2.2

GROUNDWATER DEPENDENT ECOSYSTEMS

The catchment contains substantial reserves of groundwater used for a range of purposes. Regional-scale groundwater systems underlie the region, including the Otway, Murray, Highland and Dilwyn, with other shallow local aquifers present19. Groundwater supports a range of ecological and physical environmental assets such as rivers, wetlands and other groundwater dependent ecosystems. Groundwater Dependent Ecosystems (GDEs) rely wholly or partially on groundwater to maintain ecosystem function and community composition. Some examples of GDE types include the following: • terrestrial vegetation – vegetation communities and dependent fauna that have seasonal or episodic dependence on groundwater • river base ﬂow systems – aquatic and riparian ecosystems that exist in or adjacent to streams that are fed by groundwater base flow • aquifer and cave ecosystems – aquatic ecosystems that occupy caves or aquifers

Groundwater extraction provides most of the water used within the Glenelg Hopkins region for irrigated agriculture, non-potable stock and domestic supply, heavy industry and geothermal power. Groundwater is also widely extracted for primary and reserve supply for towns. These activities can affect groundwater levels, flows, and quality, which in turn can potentially affect the health of GDEs. Understanding how these systems respond to a variable climate and land and water management is fundamental to protecting GDEs. Recent mapping of potential GDEs using remote sensing technologies has improved the knowledge of GDE distribution within the region20. Further studies are also needed to determine groundwater requirements of GDEs in priority areas for input to Local Groundwater Management Plans.

ACTION 2-5: Identify and prioritise types of high value GDEs in the Glenelg Hopkins region to inform regional planning processes and water allocation decisions

• wetlands – aquatic communities and fringing vegetation dependent on groundwater-fed lakes and wetlands

Who: DEPI, Southern Rural Water, GWMWater, CMA

• terrestrial fauna – native animals that directly use groundwater rather than rely on it for habitat

ACTION 2-6:

• estuarine and near-shore marine ecosystems – coastal, estuarine and near-shore marine plant and animal communities whose ecological function has some dependence on discharge of groundwater.

Who: Southern Rural Water, DEPI, CMA

Develop or review Local Groundwater Management Plans for management areas identified in the Western Regional Sustainable Water Strategy

Below left: Crawford River relies on a groundwater fed baseflow in the drier months. Below right: Irrigation can impact on groundwater levels.

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WATER MANAGEMENT

2.2.3

ENVIRONMENTAL WATER ENTITLEMENTS

The Glenelg River and the upper reaches of the Wannon River are part of the Wimmera-Mallee headworks system. Environmental flows are currently provided to the Glenelg River at Rocklands Reservoir through allocations from the Wimmera and Glenelg Rivers Environmental Entitlement 2010. The environmental entitlement also sets out passing flow rules for Rocklands Reservoir and the diversion weirs on the upper Wannon River. With regard to planning and delivery of environmental water, Glenelg Hopkins CMA undertakes the following activities: • participates in the collaborative development of the Seasonal Watering Plan, and informs state-wide prioritisation of watering actions • undertakes environmental water planning and delivery according to agreed operating arrangements • increases community engagement and communication surrounding environmental water management • manages shared risks in line with the Victorian Environmental Watering Partnership Risk Management Framework. In addition, Glenelg Hopkins CMA contributes to monitoring and reporting by:

This strategy identifies regional priorities for environmental watering over the eight-year planning period and incorporates actions into the work plans for relevant Waterway Management Areas. These priorities will also inform development of Environmental Water Management Plans and Seasonal Watering Proposals (see Figure 7) using recommendations from flow studies, learnings from monitoring and experience gained from implementing watering actions. In addition to identifying values and objectives for environmental water management, Seasonal Watering Proposals will aim to identify and manage a wide range of risks. Where watering actions are expected to inundate private property, consent will be obtained from landholders before the action is implemented. Activities in the work plans (Part D) ensure: • targeted use of environmental water to maximise ecological benefits within the Glenelg River • water availability through further, more detailed planning • necessary infrastructure is in place to enable or enhance environmental water delivery • integration of non-watering actions with environmental watering.

• undertaking data collection for state-wide condition monitoring (VEFMAP) • reporting on environmental water delivery depth, rate, volume and ecological outcomes to the Victorian Environmental Water Holder as required.

Below left: Environmental flow release from the carp screens, Rocklands Reservoir. Below right: Flows can be released further downstream at Five Mile Outlet on the Glenelg River.

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2.2.3

(CONTINUED) Key - who is responsible for what: Regional Waterway Strategy Waterway managers

• Identiﬁes priority river reaches/wetlands and values in each region

VEWH

• Developed every eight years

Scientific experts

• Previously known as ‘Regional River Health Strategies’ Guides priorities for

Environmental Water Management Plan • Outlines long-term environmental objectives, desired flow regimes and management arrangements • Will be developed progressively for each system/site identifies as a long-term priority for environmental watering

Environmental flow studies

Informs

• Scientiﬁc analysis of ﬂow components required to support key environmental values and objectives • Updated as required with new information

• Updated as required with new information • Assumes current water recovery commitments/targets • Previously part of environmental operating strategies Forms basis of

Seasonal watering plan • Describes State-wide priorities for environmental water use in the coming year under a range of climatic scenarios

Seasonal watering proposal • Describes regional priorities for environmental water use in the coming year under a range of climatic scenarios

• Developed annually Informs

• Developed annually • Previously environmental watering proposal or part of annual watering plans Required for approval of

Delivery arrangements • Clariﬁes operational requirements for, and responsibilities in, implementation of the seasonal watering statement • These arrangements may be described in the seasonal watering proposals or plan, in operating arrangements required under entitlements or in a separate delivery plan

• Consolidates the seasonal watering proposals accepted by the VEWH • Can be varied at any time (with same consultative requirements as initial development) Decisions communicated through

Seasonal watering statement • Communicates decisions on watering activities to be undertaken as water becomes available during season • Authorises waterway managers to undertake watering • Statements can be released at any time during the season • May be one or multiple statements for a system

Figure 7. The Victorian Environmental Water Holder planning framework for decisions in environmental water management in Victoria

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WATER MANAGEMENT

2.2.3

(CONTINUED)

ACTION 2-7:

ACTION 2-11:

Develop the Glenelg River Environmental Water Management Plan to provide clear guidance on the river’s long-term environmental water management objectives and water requirements

Undertake further detailed work to determine the environmental watering needs and passing flow requirements for the Glenelg River downstream of Moora Moora Reservoir with a view to enhancing flows within this reach

Who: CMA, VEWH, DEPI, GWMWater, Wimmera CMA, Parks Victoria, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Group

Who: CMA, DEPI, VEWH, GWMWater, Parks Victoria

ACTION 2-8:

Who: CMA, VEWH, DEPI, Parks Victoria

Develop Seasonal Watering Proposals annually Who: CMA, VEWH, DEPI, GWMWater, Wimmera CMA, Parks Victoria, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Group The Victorian Environmental Flows Monitoring and Assessment Program (VEFMAP) is used to assess the ecological responses to environmental water delivery in the Glenelg River. This monitoring program enables continual improvement and more efficient water delivery. The current VEFMAP monitoring program does not extend to the estuary; as a result the impact of environmental water flows to the heritage reach within the Glenelg estuary is poorly understood. VEFMAP or a similar monitoring program should extend into the Glenelg estuary, particularly given its high environmental and recreational values.

ACTION 2-9: Continue the VEFMAP (Victorian Environmental Flow Monitoring and Assessment Program) flow monitoring program Who: CMA, DEPI, Melbourne University

ACTION 2-10: Develop a monitoring program to monitor the ecological response of the Glenelg estuary to environmental watering

2.2.4

USE OF ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF WATER FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PURPOSES

Using alternative sources of water that are ‘fit for purpose’ that is, of an appropriate quality for its intended use, can help reduce reliance on water from our waterways. Examples of alternative water supplies include recycled water (treated water from sewage treatment plants) and urban stormwater. Treated waste water from Wannon Water’s treatment plants is released under EPA licence to the Glenelg River and other waterways. Such releases can potentially have environmental benefits, particularly during low flow conditions. New proposals to use recycled water must be assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure there are no negative effects on the river system.

ACTION 2-12: The use of recycled water for environmental purposes will be considered on a case-by-case basis and be consistent with the Victorian Government’s policy on the use of recycled water Who: Southern Rural Water, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, Wannon Water, CMA, DEPI, EPA

Who: CMA, VEWH, DEPI

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CLIMATE CHANGE

2.3 CLIMATE CHANGE 2.3.1

TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS

Climate change modelling indicates that we can expect increasingly hotter and drier conditions in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Average annual temperatures are projected to rise by between 0.5 and 1.1 degrees by 203021. Winter rainfall is likely to decrease and summer rainfall is expected to increase. Despite an overall likely decrease in rainfall by up to 7 per cent by 2030, the intensity of extreme rainfall events is likely to increase22. A decline in rainfall is anticipated to result in a subsequent decrease in runoff23. For a 1 degree rise in annual temperature, annual runoff is expected to decline by between 2-22 per cent and for 2 degrees of temperature rise, the decline in runoff is approximately double24. These changes to runoff and associated changes to stream flow have the potential to leave freshwater ecosystems increasingly vulnerable. According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, global sea level rose by approximately 0.19 m between 1901 and 201025. The Victorian Government has established a policy of planning for sea level rise of not less than 0.8 m by 2100 but also notes the need to allow for the combined effects of tides, storm surges, coastal processes and local conditions when assessing risks and impacts26.

2.3.2

ADAPTATION

Future strategies for conservation must take into account the long-term possible impacts of climate change in the planning stage. In early 2013, the Victorian Government released Victoria’s first Climate Change Adaption Plan. The CCAP emphasises the need to embed resilience into all our strategies and plans27. Conservation strategies must accommodate ecological change and loss; they must take into account considerable uncertainty in the extent and type of loss and the impacts of change on biodiversity28, 29. The adaptive capacity of waterways needs to be considered so they are better able to cope with the impacts of climate change. The main impacts of climate change to be contemplated in the management of waterways include: • reduced rainfall, runoff and stream flow • dry soil conditions • bushfire – increased frequency and intensity • heatwave – increased frequency and duration • increased intensity of rainfall events leading to flooding. The current practice of revegetating waterways and improving and maintaining water quality is important for both environmental and cultural values and will remain an important adaptation strategy under climate change to maximise both the resilience and adaptive capacity of these systems.

ACTION 2-13: Develop Glenelg Hopkins NRM strategy for climate change to document strategies for regional waterways to adapt to climate change Who: CMA, DEPI, Australian Government, Southern Slopes Climate Change Adaptation Research Program (SCARP)

Below left: River flows are likely to be reduced with climate change placing further pressure on waterway values. Below right: Bushfires will become more frequent with climate change.

Photo: DEPI

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EXTREME EVENTS

2.4 EXTREME EVENTS The environment has adapted to flood and fire cycles, however climate change and land use change are predicted to increase the severity of floods and bushfires which may make it more difficult for waterways to recover from these extreme events. Actions in this strategy need to consider the impacts of extreme events such as bushfire and flood on the environment and their impact on waterway management programs. 2.4.1

FLOODS

During periods of prolonged heavy rainfall, storm surges or high tides, water levels along rivers rise, often causing inundation of the surrounding landscape. While flooding can become a serious problem for the community if not adequately managed, it is a natural process and is important for the maintenance of biological diversity30. A key future challenge will be to ensure the protection of life and property, while allowing rivers to maintain their natural flooding processes. Local flood management plans and studies help manage floodplains and outlying areas in the Glenelg Hopkins region that are at high risk of inundation. In 2011 the region experienced significant flooding events to key waterways such as the Hopkins River, Mt Emu Creek, Fiery Creek, Glenelg River, Wannon River and some other smaller tributaries. Communities were affected through flooding of property in a number of townships, damage to fencing and bridges, stock loss, as well as significant erosion along river banks and gullies in the upper catchments. Glenelg Hopkins CMA received funding from the Australian and Victorian Governments to assist communities to repair this damage. The CMA delivered a Flood Recovery Employment Program which worked alongside community groups and local governments to repair damage in both rural and urban areas across the region. Funding was also received under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements to repair damaged waterway infrastructure. The CMA will aim to undertake flood recovery activities, where it can, if significant flood damage occurs to the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterways in the future - pending funding availability.

ACTION 2-14: Undertake flood recovery activities after significant flooding events, pending available funding Who: CMA, DEPI, local government, Parks Victoria

ACTION 2-15: Ensure flooding considerations are incorporated into work planning activities, including appropriate fencing setbacks off the floodplain, flood fencing design, large wood reinstatement and infrastructure projects (i.e. rock chutes, fish passage) Who: CMA, DEPI, local government

2.4.2

BUSHFIRES

Large bushfires can impact on human life, property and the environment. Human life will be considered the highest priority over other considerations. Bushfires followed by heavy rainfall events can result in significant sediment build-up in waterways, which impacts on water quality and in-stream biodiversity. Waterway managers will play a role with working with other authorities to ensure waterways and their values are considered in bushfire management activities.

ACTION 2-16: Waterway managers will work with DEPI and other fire management agencies to ensure waterway values are considered as part of the planning for bushfire management activities Who: CMA, CFA, CMA, local government, Parks Victoria

ACTION 2-17: Ensure fire considerations are incorporated into work planning activities, including gates on all waterway project sites to allow access for fire suppression vehicles Who: CMA, DEPI, CFA, Parks Victoria

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ESTUARY MANAGEMENT

2.5 ESTUARY MANAGEMENT Estuaries are highly valued for their recreational and cultural values. The proximity of estuaries to coastal settlements and high value farming land increases the risk to habitat values from activities associated with these uses, in particular, degradation of riparian vegetation from developments and stock access. Climate change impacts such as sea level rise, storm surges, and altered flows are also likely to affect estuary function and riparian vegetation communities.

ost estuaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region intermittently close. When this occurs the resultant increase in water level has significant environmental benefits including flooding adjoining wetlands and fringing vegetation. However, there are also economic costs associated with flooding of highly productive agricultural land and infrastructure such as jetties and roads. Therefore, the decision to artificially open the estuary to relieve flooding requires consideration of a range of environmental, social and economic values. There are a number of potential consequences of artificially opening estuaries at inappropriate times, including fish deaths and the flushing of fish eggs and larvae out to sea. Glenelg Hopkins CMA uses the Estuary Entrance Management Support System (EEMSS) to consider the risks of artificially opening estuary mouths at different water levels and times of the year, and possible impacts on infrastructure and natural assets31.

EstuaryWatch is a community monitoring program that increases the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s participation in natural resource management while aiding estuary management decisions through the collection of information on water quality and estuary mouth condition. EstuaryWatch commenced in the Glenelg Hopkins region in 2013 and currently operates at the Hopkins and Merri River estuaries.

ACTION 2-18: Review and update estuary management plans for the Glenelg, Surry, Wattle Hill Creek (Fawthrop Lagoon), Fitzroy, Eumerella (Yambuk Lake), Moyne, Merri and Hopkins River estuaries

ACTION 2-19: Implement a risk-based assessment process to inform estuary entrance management decisions Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, local government

ACTION 2-20: Develop Memoranda of Understanding, which outlines the process and roles and responsibilities of partner agencies with responsibilities for artificially opened estuaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, local government

ACTION 2-21: Identify land or built assets regularly threatened with inundation from estuary closure and determine if actions, other than artificially opening the estuary, can be undertaken to minimise the long-term threat Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, local government

ACTION 2-22: Review and update local planning schemes to include areas subject to inundation from estuary entrance closure Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, local government

ACTION 2-23: Seek opportunities to continue support for EstuaryWatch Who: CMA

ACTION 2-24: Establish a policy framework to guide development of facilities in estuaries Who: Western Coastal Board, local government, CMA

Who: CMA, DEPI, Parks Victoria, local government

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WATER QUALITY

2.6 WATER QUALITY Analysis of long-term water quality trend s can help assess the effectiveness of water resource and catchment activities over time. The CMA is part of the south-west regional monitoring partnership, which has 17 surface monitoring sites in river reaches. In addition, telemetry stations monitor water level and other parameters in four estuaries in the region.

he VWMS identifies several issues with the current monitoring and reporting framework including lack of agreed objectives, adequacy of sites and parameters measured to assess water quality and applicability of data to planning and management decisions. Implementation of actions in the VWMS is a first step to improving accessibility to and usefulness of data.

2.6.1

WATER QUALITY INCIDENT MANAGEMENT

The VWMS recognises the need for greater integration at the state and regional levels and improved regional frameworks for planning and responding to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;naturalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; water quality incidents such as algal blooms and mass fish death events.

2.6.2

ACID SULFATE SOILS

Acid sulfate soils are soils or sediments that contain (or once contained) high levels of reduced inorganic sulfur. When exposed to oxygen, the soils or sediments undergo a chemical reaction (called oxidation) that produces acid. Disturbance of acid sulfate soils can result in fish deaths or other negative effects on waterways. The processes through which acid sulfate soils affect waterways are not well understood and their location and level of risk are often uncertain. Acid sulfate soils occur predominantly in the coastal area but are also found inland, for example, on the Dundas Tablelands (associated with permanently flowing springs) and in waterways affected by dryland salinity32. An emerging issue for estuary management is the disturbance of coastal acid sulfate soils in estuarine wetlands and marshes. Management of coastal acid sulfate soils is guided by the Victorian Coastal Acid Sulfate Soil Strategy and the Victorian Best Practice Guidelines for Assessing and Managing Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils. The strategy maps potential acid sulfate soils and identifies locations where immediate action, protection or installation of detailed monitoring networks might be warranted.

Development of stormwater management plans by local governments contributes to protection of waterways from both diffuse and point source input from regional centres. The control of point source pollution events is managed by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

ACTION 2-25: Review regional waterway incident (fish death) response guideline and ensure roles and responsibilities of agencies and organisations in the Glenelg Hopkins region are clear Who: DEPI, EPA, CMA, Parks Victoria, local government

ACTION 2-26: Review regional waterway incident (algal bloom) response guideline and ensure roles and responsibilities of agencies and organisations in the Glenelg Hopkins region are clear Who: DEPI, Wannon Water, committees of management, EPA, CMA, local government

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WETLANDS

2.7 WETLANDS Regional guidance on wetland management for the Glenel g Hopkins region was provided by the Glenel g Hopkins Regional Wetland Status Report (2006) and the more recent RCS. Wetlands are a prominent feature in the Glenel g Hopkins landscape and are under increasing pressure from land use change, drainage and other threats.

etland types in the region are diverse and require different approaches for management. This strategy identifies priority wetlands for management action using approaches in line with state policy under the VWMS (see Part D). However, for a number of individual wetlands within complexes and wetland types, such as Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (see 3.5.2), there is not enough information to determine which wetlands are priorities for intervention at this stage.

Glenelg Hopkins CMA will work with DEPI, local government and community groups to deliver regional programs aimed at maintaining or improving the wetland condition, reinstating wetland hydrology and improving wetland connectivity in the landscape. This program will include a combination of incentives, education and awareness and, in some cases, regulatory controls. Victoria has recently developed new native vegetation controls using a risk-based approach. In addition, regulatory controls exist for Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands, listed under the EPBC Act. It is currently unclear how the regulatory controls will apply to wetland vegetation, and further information and guidance needs to be provided to local government, waterway managers and landholders.

ACTION 2-30: Prepare guidance to landholders on the appropriate use of wetlands and management options Who: DEPI, CMA, community groups

ACTION 2-27: Undertake risk assessments and prioritisation of additional wetlands in the region Who: CMA, DEPI

ACTION 2-28: Assess Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands to determine management requirements

ACTION 2-29: Initiate programs to improve condition of Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands on private land Who: CMA, DEPI

ACTION 2-31: Improve information about wetland vegetation and community types and develop guidance to assist local government in the application of native vegetation planning controls for wetland vegetation Who: DEPI, CMA, Australian Government, local government In recent times, natural resource management organisations have undertaken hydrological reinstatement of wetlands. Such works will continue to be supported where they have consent from the land owner and they are feasible and cost effective, while ensuring any potential impacts on community services and public and private assets can be mitigated.

ACTION 2-32: Undertake hydrological reinstatement of wetlands where projects are feasible, cost effective, have community support and potential impacts on community services and public and private assets can be mitigated Who: Nature Glenelg Trust, CMA, Parks Victoria, local government, community groups

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WETLANDS

2.7.1

RAMSAR WETLANDS

Lake Bookar is a permanent saline wetland near Camperdown. It is one of nine wetlands in the Western District Lakes (WDL) Ramsar site, which is recognised under the Ramsar Convention as wetlands of international importance33,34. The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) establishes a framework for managing Ramsar sites including preparation of site management plans. With the exception of Lake Bookar, the wetland complex is in the Corangamite CMA region and therefore more detailed management planning for the WDL Ramsar site is included in the Corangamite Regional Waterway Strategy. The WDL Ramsar Site ecological character description (ECD)35 describes the ecological character of the site as a whole and identifies critical components, processes and services at the site which contribute to both the site’s character and the Ramsar criteria for which the site is listed. At the time of listing (1982), the WDL site met five of nine Ramsar criteria including: it is a good representative example of a wetland type within the bioregion (permanent saline lake); it supports threatened plant species; it supports waterbirds at critical life stages including during migration breeding and moulting; it regularly supports over 20,000 birds; and it regularly supports over one per cent of the population for at least four bird species. Lake Bookar contributes particularly to the WDL site by meeting all criteria except for the presence of the threatened plant species. The ECD establishes limits of acceptable change (LAC) for components, processes and services (see Appendix 5). These measures assist managers to identify suitable strategies to avoid change in ecological character and potential measures for programs to monitor compliance with the LAC.

Threats outlined in the ECD, which potentially impact on Lake Bookar, are those associated with climate change particularly increased periods of wetland drying and impacts associated with agricultural land use and stock access including soil compaction; increased nutrient input; spread of weeds, including pasture grasses; erosion; and grazing and trampling of wetland vegetation. These threats have been considered in the AVIRA risk assessment for the lake and recommended actions to mitigate threats, where feasible, are included in Part D. Monitoring and reporting on the state of the site’s ecological character occurs through the national Ramsar site rolling review and Australia’s national report to the triennial Conventions of Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Convention. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA will work with the Corangamite CMA, the land manager, Parks Victoria and DEPI to provide information necessary for the review focussing on the critical components, processes and services set out in Appendix 5.

ACTION 2-33: Implement actions assigned to Glenelg Hopkins CMA for Lake Bookar nominated in the Corangamite Waterway Strategy Who: CMA, Parks Victoria The VWMS supports new listing of Ramsar sites where they meet certain criteria. There has been recent community support and a request to investigate the listing of the Lower Glenelg estuary and Long Swamp as a new Ramsar site. This site has many of the ecological values of the adjacent Piccaninnie Ponds Karst Wetlands in South Australia, which was recently designated as a Ramsar site.

ACTION 2-34: Below: Lake Bookar part of Western District Lakes Ramsar site.

Investigate listing of the Lower Glenelg estuary and Long Swamp as a new Ramsar site Who: DEPI, CMA, Parks Victoria, Nelson Coastcare, Nature Glenelg Trust, Australian Government

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RIVER CHANNEL

2.8 RIVER CHANNEL 2.8.1

LARGE WOOD

Large wood is an important feature of the river channel, providing habitat for a range of aquatic fauna. It also plays a role in preventing bank erosion, slowing water velocity and capturing large sand deposits, particularly in waterways such as the Glenelg River. Historic removal of this wood has caused significant degradation of environmental and social values of many of our regional waterways. Previous large wood reinstatement programs have occurred at Harrow and Casterton along the Glenelg River. Given the findings of the state-wide large wood survey undertaken by DEPI, there are significant opportunities to undertake re-instatement programs in the majority of our waterways across our region, particularly the Glenelg River. However, re-instatement programs must consider the risk posed by large wood to human life and public infrastructure, particularly during flooding events. A risk treatment plan has been developed and implemented successfully for a site at Casterton and this can be adopted for use in other areas across the region, if deemed appropriate.

ACTION 2-35: Identify priority sites for large wood reintroduction, taking into consideration the benefits and risks posed to the community Who: CMA, DEPI, local government, angling groups

2.8.2

SAND EXTRACTION

Sand extraction occurs on a number of waterways in the Glenelg Hopkins region, particularly in the Glenelg basin. Sand extraction provides a number of benefits including managing sand slugs, and providing habitat holes for aquatic fauna. However, sand extraction needs to be carefully managed to avoid adverse impacts to the waterway. The CMA will work closely with sand extraction companies through its Works on Waterways functions, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. The CMA will also work with companies to identify opportunities for further sand extraction if significant benefits to the waterway values can be determined.

ACTION 2-36: Work with sand extraction companies to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and also identify opportunities for further sand extraction if significant benefits to waterway values can be determined Who: CMA, DEPI, local government

2.8.3

FISH BARRIERS

A number of artificial barriers exist within our regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterways and many of these can inhibit fish movement and biological processes. There may be opportunities to alter the design of existing structures, or in some case remove the barrier entirely from the waterway. In cases where the structure is to be altered, there needs to be clear guidance on cost and ownership arrangements. These arrangement will be in line with government policy under the VWMS (refer to Policy 11.5). The removal of in-stream barriers will also need to be consistent with Policy 11.6. For the construction of fish passages, any works need to be in line with the DEPI best practice guidelines to be developed in 2016.

ACTION 2-37: Record location of fish barriers and investigate opportunities to remove or modify structures that impede fish movement Who: CMA, DEPI, local government

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RIPARIAN LAND

2.9 RIPARIAN LAND Riparian land management in Victoria is complex, due particularly to the presence of both Crown and private water frontages across Victoria, but also the current administrative arrangement for licensing of Crown frontages and competing land uses. The CMA wil l work with other government agencies to improve landholder understanding of rights and responsibilities on riparian land and reduce the complexity of riparian land management for landholders and other riparian users.

lenelg Hopkins CMA will work with DEPI, local government and community groups to deliver regional programs that are aimed at maintaining and improving the condition of riparian land and improving riparian connectivity in the landscape. This will include a combination of incentive programs, education and awareness programs and, in some cases, regulatory controls. DEPI, together with the CMA, has undertaken significant reforms and management of Crown frontages over recent years. These reforms have seen many landholders voluntarily convert their ‘agricultural licence’ to a ‘riparian management’ licence, resulting in a reduced licence fee. The CMA will continue to provide incentives to landholders on Crown frontages but only in combination with a conversion to a ‘riparian management’ licence. Grazing licences will continue to be managed through DEPI, with the aim of developing minimum standards for their management so landholders more clearly understand their roles and responsibilities for managing Crown frontages. If a landholder breaches conditions set in their licence or is occupying an unlicensed Crown frontage, the focus will be on education and negotiation with the landholders, with use of enforcement as a last resort.

ACTION 2-38: Develop and distribute information to Crown frontage licensees about their roles and responsibilities and provide clear information about riparian management

ACTION 2-39: Implement improved compliance approaches to Crown frontages, including stronger action for serious breaches of licence conditions and unauthorised occupations Who: DEPI, CMA In some cases, controlled grazing is allowed through CMA management agreements with landholders to control pasture grasses along riparian areas and help promote natural regeneration of indigenous woody vegetation. Guidelines have been developed by DEPI and waterway managers to assist with the decision making process.

ACTION 2-40: Support controlled grazing activities along riparian areas within riparian management agreements where such grazing activities can show environmental benefit, do not compromise waterway values and is an accepted tool under the DEPI controlled grazing guidelines Who: DEPI, CMA Access to water is a critical consideration in fencing off riparian land. The CMA will continue to support development or utilisation of alternative water options for landholders under riparian management agreements and will fund the application fee for a new take-and-use licence for an adjoining Crown frontage if the landholder participates in a riparian management program with the CMA.

ACTION 2-41: Support the development and utilisation of alternative water options for landholders under riparian management agreements Who: CMA, Southern Rural Water, GWMWater, DEPI

Who: DEPI, CMA

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RECREATIONAL USE OF WATERWAYS

2.10 RECREATIONAL USE OF WATERWAYS Waterways are increasingly being valued for the recreational services they provide. Key recreational uses of waterways include fishing, hunting, boating, swimming and camping. 2.10.1 RECREATIONAL FISHING Recreational fishing makes an important social and economic contribution to Victorian regional communities. It has been estimated that recreational fishing contributes $184 million to the Victorian economy. In particular, the Glenelg Hopkins region provides popular native and trout recreational fishing opportunities. DEPI (Fisheries Victoria) is focused on managing fisheries in a balanced way to ensure ecological sustainability and social and economic outcomes. Fisheries Victoria is also responsible for implementing Victorian Government initiatives to improve recreational fishing opportunities by supporting fish habitat recovery works, improving angler access and facilities, fish stocking, protecting fisheries resources and education and compliance activities. Recreational fishing is highly dependent on the health of the environment including the availability of suitable habitat, water quality and water flow regimes to sustain productive fisheries. Recreational fishers acknowledged this critical dependency in surveys (2009 and 2012) that revealed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;repairing where fish liveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; was the most important recreational fishing investment priority. To improve habitat outcomes on the ground, there is mutual benefit in Fisheries Victoria and recreational fishers working with the CMA to identify and collaborate on habitat related projects that lead to better fishing outcomes.

The Glenelg Hopkins region includes many popular recreational fisheries. In 2012, a survey of recreational fishers highlighted that important fisheries in the region include the Glenelg River and estuary, Hopkins River and estuary, Rocklands Reservoir, Lake Bolac, Moyne River and Lake Burrumbeet. The Hopkins River estuary is one of three premier river reaches under the Go Fishing in Victoria Program, selected for their existing high recreational fisheries values. A workshop was also held in 2013 with key angling groups in the region. The ideas and proposals from the workshop were reviewed by Fisheries Victoria against project feasibility criteria and are captured as fishery management priorities (see Appendix 3). The outcomes of this workshop builds on past fishery management planning processes, in particular the 2006 Glenelg Hopkins Fishery Management Plan.

ACTION 2-42: Incorporate recreational fisheries priorities identified in the 2012 Glenelg Hopkins CMA regional survey and 2013 CMA/Fisheries Victoria workshop into the regional works program Who: CMA, Fisheries Victoria, Arthur Rylah Institute, angling groups

2.10.2 GAME HUNTING Many wetland reserves in the Glenelg Hopkins region allow duck hunting. Opportunities exist to work with game hunting organisations to conserve wetland habitat and restore wetlands.

ACTION 2-43: Seek opportunities to work collaboratively with game hunting organisations to conserve wetland habitat. This may involve the development of Property Based Game Management (PBGM) programs that will enhance game species and increase biodiversity Who: CMA, game hunting organisations, DEPI, Parks Victoria (for State Game Reserves) Nature Glenelg Trust

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PART C

Photo: Rob McPherson

T H E A P P R OAC H U S E D I N WAT E RWAY P RIO RI T ISAT IO N

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PART C: THE APPROACH USED IN WATERWAY PRIORITISATION

PART C: THE APPROACH USED IN WATERWAY PRIORITISATION Part C outlines the process undertaken to identify high value and priority waterways within the region. It then outlines the process to assess risk and develop management actions to reduce this risk through a program of works presented in Part D.

SUMMARY OF PRIORITISATION APPROACH AND SECTIONS IN PART C

3.1 VISION

Creates a 50-year+ vision for condition of the waterways in the Glenelg Hopkins region. See page 53.

3.2 GOALS AND OVERARCHING PRINCIPLES

3.3 ASSETS-BASED APPROACH

Establishes regional goals to be achieved over 20+ years. Regional and VWMS principles are encompassed in goals and incorporated into the eight-year work plan. See page 53. Describes the asset-based approach. Environmental, social and economic values are scored for all waterway assets using the Aquatic Values Identification and Risk Assessment (AVIRA) tool. See page 55.

3.4 HIGH VALUE WATERWAYS

Identifies High Value Waterways using environmental, social and economic values in the AVIRA tool and policy guidance provided by the VWMS. See page 58.

3.5 PRIORITY WATERWAYS

Identifies Priority Waterways by linking the values to the regional goals. Considers risks to each priority waterway asset and assesses the feasibility of undertaking the actions required to achieve desired outcomes. Six Waterway Management Areas are identified. See page 59.

3.6 PROGRAM LOGIC

Describes the program logic approach used to identify management objectives and high level management actions for priority waterways. The priority management actions form the eight-year regional work program in Part C. See page 67.

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VISION

3.1 VISION

he vision articulates the major goals and ambitions of the GHWS. It is a long-term view of what the region’s waterways and waterway management will be like in 50 years.

The GHWS also aligns with and is guided by the Glenelg Hopkins CMA’s vision for the region and the vision of the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy.

GLENELG HOPKINS WATERWAY STRATEGY VISION

RESILIENT RIVERS, ESTUARIES AND WETLANDS CONNECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND PEOPLE AND SUPPORTING REGIONAL COMMUNITIES

3.2 GOALS AND OVERARCHING PRINCIPLES

o achieve the vision, five regional goals were developed that enable identification of broad strategic directions, guide identification of priority waterways and inform development of the eight-year work plan. The following goals have a conceptual or qualitative link to the management outcomes and are not expected to be achieved in less than 20 years:

• maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River • restore hydrological and ecological values of high value drained wetlands and wetland systems • protect or improve threatened ﬁsh populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region • maintain or improve signiﬁcant waterway dependent species and communities • maintain or improve high value recreational fishing through habitat protection.

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GOALS AND OVERARCHING PRINCIPLES

3.3.1

(CONTINUED)

The management approach of the GHWS is guided by the goals and the following principles of the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy:

EVIDENCE-BASED DECISION MAKING – best available knowledge will underpin decision making, policy and waterway management programs.

PARTNERSHIP APPROACH – waterway management will continue to be a partnership between government, industry and the community.

ADAPTIVE MANAGEMENT – policy and programs are part of a broader framework of adaptive management (supported by effective monitoring, reporting, evaluation and research) to ensure continuous improvement.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT – communities will have the opportunity to be involved in all major phases of waterway management and this participation can help foster increased stewardship of waterways. INTEGRATED CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT – integrated management of waterways will occur within a broader framework of integrated catchment management. Management will recognise the importance of waterways as a connection between catchments, groundwater, coasts and the receiving marine environment, and the strong influence of land use and catchment condition on waterway condition. APPROPRIATE TOOLS – the full complement of instruments and approaches will be considered to improve waterway condition, including direct government investment in on-ground works, grant and incentive programs, management agreements, market-based instruments, information and extension programs and regulation.

In addition, the following regional principles have been identified and incorporated into all facets of the eight-year work plan: COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT – Planning and implementation of waterway health programs and projects will maximise opportunities for community engagement. INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE AND CULTURAL HERITAGE – Skills, knowledge and perspectives of Indigenous people are to be incorporated into waterway management. MAINTENANCE – Previous investments are secured through monitoring and maintenance of prior projects.

VALUE FOR MONEY – government will direct investment to management activities that provide the most efficient and effective long-term improvements in waterway condition and the greatest community gain.

Below left: Pelicans at Glenelg River mouth, Nelson. Below right: Canoeing on the Glenelg River, Casterton.

Photo: James Pevitt

Photo: Brian Murrell

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ASSET-BASED APPROACH

3.3 ASSET-BASED APPROACH An asset is a spatial ly defined, biophysical component of the environment (for example, a river, estuary or wetland) that has particular values associated with it.

sset-based approaches have become the primary framework for managing the natural environment. Planning focuses on managing important natural assets, rather than threat-based issues such as investing in management of poor water quality or salinity over large geographic areas. This does not mean threats are not addressed but the focus of investment is reducing the threat to a particular asset. The values associated with these assets can be classified as environmental, social, cultural or economic. The assetbased approach facilitates development of integrated work programs that can address multiple threats to the values of an asset. Asset-based approaches also direct public investment in natural resource management towards high value areas (rather than large areas in poor condition) and provide the basis for identifying priorities for investment. With limited resources available for natural resource management, the focus on priority areas means that public resources will be directed to the areas of highest environmental, social, cultural and economic value.

3.3.1

AQUATIC VALUE IDENTIFICATION RISK ASSESSMENT DATABASE

The regional priority setting process relies on information about values, threats and risks. It is vital that this information is collected and described in a consistent way and, where possible, the information is based on real data (for example, data collected from on-ground monitoring activities). The Aquatic Value Identification and Risk Assessment (AVIRA) database contains information about the values and threats associated with selected river, estuary and wetland assets which are used to support the regional priority setting process. Figure 8 over page provides an example of the AVIRA database framework, using wetlands as an example. The assets refer to sections of rivers, estuaries or wetlands assessed as part of the Index of Stream Condition, Index of Wetland Condition or pilot Index of Estuary Condition programs and therefore have detailed information available about environmental values and threats. Other types of values, particularly social and economic values, required information to be collected at the regional level by waterway managers. Environmental values are grouped under the following categories (Appendix 6): • Formally Recognised Signiﬁcance • Representativeness • Rare or Threatened Species/Communities • Naturalness • Landscape Features. Social values are grouped in the following categories: • Activity • Place • People. Economic values are grouped in categories such as: • Water

Below left: The federally-listed Wimmera bottlebrush (Callistemon wimmerensis) is a significant water dependent species. Below right: Yambuk estuary.

• Power Generation • Other Resources.

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ASSET-BASED APPROACH

3.3.1

(CONTINUED) ASSET CLASS

ASSET ITEM

VALUE TYPE

CATEGORY

MEASURES (EXAMPLE)

Formally Recognised Significance

Representative

River Reaches

WETLANDS

Environment

Wetland Name

Rare or Threatened Species/ Communities

Naturalness

Significant Flora

Significant Fauna

Significant + EVCs

DSE layer WETLAND_1994 Landscape Features

Estuaries

Activity Groundwater Social

Place

Marine People

Water

Economic

Power Generation Other Resources

Figure 8. AVIRA conceptual framework. Wetlands are provided as an example. Groundwater and marine asset classes are not part of this strategy

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ASSET-BASED APPROACH

3.3.1

(CONTINUED)

To ensure that all information is collected and entered into the database in a consistent manner, a process for collecting and scoring all values was developed by DEPI in partnership with the waterway managers. This process is explained in a manual which sets out the data requirements and scoring of each measure. When no data is available for a particular measure, this is recorded in the database, with the aim of filling this data gap over the eight-year implementation period of the GHWS. An example of the data sources and scoring rules for the values ‘Heritage Rivers’ and ‘non-motor boating’ is shown below. Different approaches were adopted for a number of wetland assets that were not listed in AVIRA (see 3.5.1). Table 4. Example using AVIRA to score waterway asset values and scores

VALUE – NON-MOTOR BOATING (SOCIAL) Score

Descriptor

Waterway used for annual (or more frequent) non-motor boating event

Waterway is popular for non-motor boating

Waterway is occasionally used for non-motor boating

Not known to be used for non-motor boating

Not suitable for non-motor boating

The threats identified for AVIRA are categorised under the following groupings (Appendix 7): • Altered water regimes • Altered physical form • Poor water quality • Degraded habitats • Invasive ﬂora and fauna • Reduced connectivity. Under each grouping, a number of individual threats were identified. For example threats associated with altered water regimes include, changes to zero flow frequency, changes to flow seasonality, and changes to bank full flow frequency. The level of each of these individual threats can be quantified by specific measures. This enables an assessment of threat severity, ranging from 5 (very high threat) to 1 (very low threat). Where there is ‘no evidence’ of a threat impacting on a value, a severity score of 1 is applied as a precautionary measure. Where there is evidence that there is ‘no threat’, a score of 0 is used. The database includes a standardised risk assessment procedure that provides an automated assessment of the level of risk to all values present in a waterway. This assessment is based on evidence of associations between values and threats and incorporates a level of confidence in each of those associations. The database also provides a suggested category of management response for each value-threat combination which includes reducing the threat, protecting the value or filling data gaps.

Data source: Peak bodies (for example, Canoeing Victoria or Rowing Victoria), My Victorian Waterway survey or local knowledge.

VALUE – HERITAGE RIVERS (ENVIRONMENTAL) Score

Descriptor

Yes

Asset forms part of a Heritage River

Asset does not form part of a Heritage River

Data source: Heritage Rivers – Rivers and Streams Special Investigation, Final Recommendations (Land Conservation Council 1991).

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HIGH VALUE WATERWAYS

3.4 HIGH VALUE WATERWAYS The Victorian Waterway Management Strategy indicates that waterways wil l be considered high value if they have one, or more, of the fol lowing characteristics: • formally recognised signiﬁcance • presence of highly threatened or rare species and communities • high naturalness values (for example, aquatic invertebrate communities and riparian vegetation) or special waterway features (for example, drought refuges and important bird habitat)

High value waterways and their associated values were identified using AVIRA scores and the criteria listed in Appendix 8. Due to capacity constraints, condition assessments could only be undertaken, and AVIRA populated, for wetlands in the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia and those previously listed in the RCS. Based on the AVIRA scores and criteria 110 (97 per cent) river reaches, 226 (74 per cent) wetlands and 8 (100 per cent) estuaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region were deemed to be high value (see Appendix 9). This list was refined to identify priority waterways for targeted management actions over the next eight years.

• high social and economic values (for example, recreational fishing, Aboriginal cultural heritage, urban/rural water sources).

Below left: Scar trees are a significant cultural feature and often occur along waterways in the region. Below right: Hopkins River is a high value waterway.

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

3.5 PRIORITY WATERWAYS A high proportion of waterways are considered high value. The numbers reflect the value the community places on many waterways within the Glenel g Hopkins region. A process to further refine the number of waterways, for management attention over the next eight years, was required.

Priority for the development of the regional work program was given to waterways with higher risk scores and high feasibility of addressing those threats. These waterways form the basis of the work program in Part D. It is recognised that management activities will be undertaken on other waterways when opportunities arise. However, works on these other waterways should address the following criteria:

• reduce threats to priority waterways

o identify priority waterways, the high value waterways were filtered to select those that had the following characteristics: • values aligned with regional goals (Appendix 10, Appendix 11 and Appendix 12)

• provide connectivity • protect public infrastructure or reduce risks from extreme events

• moderate to very high risk to those values

• maintain or strengthen community commitment to improving the condition of local waterways

• technically feasible to address threats.

• required to meet regulatory obligations.

Using data about the risk and technical feasibility, the priority waterways were ranked and a priority waterway score was identified. The priority scores were used to reduce the list of waterways to a manageable numb`er to focus on in the eight-year planning period (see Figure 9 below) and identified the following number of priority waterways: • 39 river reaches (see Table 5) • 59 wetlands (see Table 6) • 8 estuaries (see Table 7).

TOTAL NUMBER OF WATERWAY ASSETS

427

TOTAL NUMBER OF HIGH VALUE WATERWAYS

244

TOTAL NUMBER OF PRIORITY WATERWAYS

107

113 river reaches (100%)

8 estuaries (100%)

306 wetlands (100%)

110 river reaches (97%)

8 estuaries (100%)

226 wetlands (74%)

40 river reaches (35%)

8 estuaries (100%)

59 wetlands (19%)

Figure 9. Filtering waterway assets to identify priority waterways

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

Table 5. Priority river reaches in each Waterway Management Area

River Name

Reach Numbers

Coastal Waterway Management Area Brucknell Creek

36-13

Merri River

36-38

Surry River

37-03, 37-04, 37-05

Fitzroy River

37-07

Darlot Creek

37-09

Eumeralla River

37-11

Moyne River

37-16

Moleside Creek

38-14

Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area Glenelg River

38-02, 38-03, 38-04, 38-05

Crawford River

38-15, 38-16

Stokes River

38-21, 38-20

Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area Glenelg River

38-06, 38-07, 38-08, 38-09, 38-10, 38-11, 38-12, 38-13

Wando River

38-44

Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area Mt Emu Creek

36-22

Trawalla Creek

36-23

Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area Mt Emu Creek

36-17

Wannon Waterway Management Area

Wannon River

38-22,38-23, 38-24, 38-25, 38-26, 38-28

Miakite Creek

38-30

Grange Burn Creek

38-35, 38-37

Dwyer Creek

38-40

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

Table 6. Priority wetlands in each Waterway Management Area. ID number refers to the wetland identifier in the Victorian wetland inventory geospatial layer WETLAND_CURRENT

ID Number

Wetland Name

Wetland Complex

Coastal Waterway Management Area 20501

Long Swamp (East)

Long Swamp

20502

Lake Bongbong/Lake Monbeong

Long Swamp

20614

Long Swamp (West)

Long Swamp

20613

McFarlanes Swamp

Long Swamp

20561

Unnamed

Bridgewater Lakes

20562

Bridgewater Lakes (North)

Bridgewater Lakes

20563

Unnamed

Bridgewater Lakes

20565

Bridgewater Lakes (South)

25630

Tower Hill Lake (West)

Tower Hill

25632

Wagon Bay

Tower Hill

25638

Tower Hill Lake (East)

Tower Hill

23598

Lake Condah

Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area 20568

Grassy Flats Swamp

20965

Grannys Swamp

Mundi-Selkirk

21063

Blackjack Swamp

Mundi-Selkirk

21088

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

20137

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

20911

McCallums Swamp

Mundi-Selkirk

21103

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21141

Tullich Swamp

21167

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21186

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21229

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21243

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21154

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

21852

Blackjack Swamp

Mundi-Selkirk

22953

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

22957

Unnamed

Mundi-Selkirk

20158

Kaladbro Swamp

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21131

Unnamed

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21136

Unnamed

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21166

Unnamed

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21180

Mill Swamp

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21657

Kerr Swamp

Lindsay-Werrikoo

21752

Church Swamp

Lindsay-Werrikoo

22935

Dismal Swamp

Boiler Swamp

22937

Nowackis Swamp

Boiler Swamp

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

ID Number

Wetland Name

Wetland Complex

Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area 22985

Smokey Swamp

Dergholm

22994

Unnamed

Dergholm

23000

Sampey Swamp

Dergholm

23003

Unnamed

Dergholm

23078

Beniagh Swamp

27624

Victoria Lagoon

27669

Moora Moora Reservoir

27675

Rocklands Reservoir

Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area 29160

Cockajemmy Lakes

31808

Lake Muirhead

31816

Mount William Swamp

Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area 32240

Lake Bookar

Western District Lakes Ramsar site

32553

Nerrin Nerrin Swamp

29078

Lake Towanway

Woorndoo-Hopkins

29086

Unnamed

Woorndoo-Hopkins

29106

Unnamed

Woorndoo-Hopkins

32200

Lake Elingamite

Wannon Waterway Management Area 26609

Bryan Swamp

26718

Gooseneck Swamp

26740

Lake Kennedy

Lake Linlithgow

26766

Lake Linlithgow

26815

Unnamed

Lake Linlithgow

Table 7. Priority estuaries in the Coastal Waterway Management Area

Estuary Name

ISC Reach Number

Glenelg River

38-201; 38-202

Wattle Hill Creek

37-201

Moyne River

37-216

Lake Yambuk

37-211

Fitzroy River

37-206

Hopkins River

36-201

Merri River

36-238

Surry River

37-203

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

3.5.1

PRIORITY WETLAND COMPLEXES

The prioritisation process using AVIRA (see 3.3.1) required data; such as information provided by the Index of Wetland Condition assessments. Due to varying levels of information about the values of, and threats to, the region’s 5,400 wetlands a multi-faceted approach to wetland prioritisation was employed. If wetlands listed in Table 6 are part of a complex, all wetlands within the complexes may be considered priority, subject to on-ground assessments of the wetland’s conditions, values and threats. The work program (see Part D) provides examples of works for wetlands within those complexes. Seasonal herbaceous wetlands (see 3.5.2) and wetlands identified during development of the RCS, using the Investment Framework for Environmental Resources (INFFER) prioritisation tool are also considered priority. Over the next eight years, Glenelg Hopkins CMA will focus on improving knowledge of the region’s wetlands, implementing the work programs identified through this strategy and using knowledge of some wetlands to inform broader management direction (see 2.7).

3.5.2

SEASONAL HERBACEOUS WETLANDS

The RCS identified Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (SHWs) as a significant wetland area within the catchment. Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands (Freshwater) of the Temperate Lowland Plains, are a nationally protected wetland type, recently listed under the Australian EPBC Act. The Glenelg Hopkins region contains over 1,600 Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands. Wetland classifications vary between states. In Victoria wetlands are classified using the system of Corrick and Norman (1980) and Corrick (1982). In order to identify the Seasonal Herbaceous Wetlands within the Glenelg Hopkins region, the Corrick communities most consistent with the national ecological community can be used. These have been identified as: • Freshwater meadow – herb dominated • Freshwater meadow – sedge dominated • Shallow freshwater marsh – herb dominated • Shallow freshwater marsh – sedge dominated. These categories are characterised by shallow, temporary waters that fill the wetlands during winter rains and dry out over summer. Freshwater meadows tend to be shallower and more briefly inundated than shallow freshwater marshes. Indicative mapping of SHWs prepared during the development of this strategy (see Figure 10) shows areas with high densities of this wetland type. These areas are referred to as wetland clusters. Further knowledge gathering and specific site visits are needed to determine the management requirements of many of these wetlands (see 2.7).

Below left: Bridgewater Lakes. Below right: Seasonal Herbaceous Wetland in a dry phase.

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

3.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Figure 10. Locations of seasonal herbaceous wetlands and wetland clusters within the Glenelg Hopkins region

3.5.3

WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREAS

Priority waterways were mapped to show their location in the landscape and assist with identifying target areas for management actions (see Figure 11). Waterway Management Areas (WMAs) were devised that broadly align with priority areas for intervention identified in the Regional Catchment Strategy (see Figure 12). WMAs assist in aligning regional priorities of the RCS and GHWS and enable more flexibility in the implementation of the strategy. Each WMA incorporates sub-catchments identified in the previous RRHS from one or more of the major basins: Glenelg, Hopkins and Portland (see Figure 13). In the previous RRHS and in this strategy, the Millicent Coast basin is incorporated into the Glenelg basin, given its small size and lack of river reaches in the Glenelg Hopkins region.

Limited resources mean that public investment must be directed to waterway assets that are identified as a priority. However, to protect the values within these waterway assets, works and activities will often have to be undertaken in non-priority reaches (i.e. in upstream reaches of a river or estuary) or elsewhere within the catchment. There will also be opportunity for the community to continue to work on locally significant waterway assets with the assistance of the Glenelg Hopkins CMA and other partners from time to time (see 4.9.4). However, major investment in waterway outcomes will be directed towards implementing the work plan in this strategy.

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

(CONTINUED)

Figure 11. Priority waterways and seasonal herbaceous wetland priority areas within Waterway Management Areas

3.5.3

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PRIORITY WATERWAYS

3.5.3

(CONTINUED)

Figure 12. Priority areas for intervention identified in the Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019

Figure 13. Glenelg Hopkins CMA sub-catchments overlaid with Waterway Management Areas

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PROGRAM LOGIC

3.6 PROGRAM LOGIC Program logic is a planning approach commonly used in natural resource management that demonstrates the rationale for a program and expresses how change is expected to occur.

he program logic provides the rationale for how the GHWS contributes to the vision for Victoria’s waterways, identified in the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy and the Glenelg Hopkins region’s vision, identified in this strategy. The simplified program logic for GHWS is illustrated in Figure 14 below. It describes how each year, specific management activities and outputs are delivered in order to achieve particular management outcomes.

Over the eight-year planning period, these outputs and outcomes collectively contribute to achieving regional goals and either maintaining or improving the environmental condition of waterways. In the long-term, this will ensure that the Glenelg Hopkins region’s waterways can continue to support environmental, social, cultural and economic values. The program logic approach is utilised in Part D to identify condition targets (8+ years), management outcomes (1-8 years) and high level management actions (annual) for priority waterways. These three levels all contribute towards the regional goals. These activities form the basis of the eight-year regional work program.

Regional goals relating to the maintenance or change in environmental, social, cultural and economic values supported by the maintenance or change in waterway condition

REGIONAL GOALS

> 20 years LONG-TERM RESOURCE CONDITION OUTCOMES

Assumed or measured resource condition outcomes largely related to maintained or improved river, estuary and wetland condition

> 8 years MANAGEMENT OUTCOMES

Assumed or measured outcomes from the regional work program that indicates progress towards improving the condition of waterways. Often related to reductions in the threats that are impacting on the waterway values

1-8 years

OUTPUTS

Goods and services that waterway managers (and others) deliver as part of their regional work programs

Annual

ACTIVITIES

Activities that enable the production of goods and services

FOUNDATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Activities that inform strategic investment including planning, monitoring, reporting, evaluation, research etc.

Figure 14. Simplified program logic for the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy

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PROGRAM LOGIC

3.6.1

DEVELOPING TARGETS

The GHWS follows clear program logic that aligns with the DEPI MER Framework36. Targets are set at three levels within the program logic: • long-term resource condition (8+ years) • management outcome (1-8 years) • management outputs (annual). The targets provide quantitative measures of progress towards qualitative goals. Targets within the GHWS are set at the ‘asset’ level (river or estuary reach, wetland) and then amalgamated to the planning unit (management region/sub catchment) and regional scale. The targets contribute to the targets set in the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy. Logic models were used to confirm the management actions required to achieve waterway health outcomes and to inform target setting in the GHWS37.

Management outcomes are linked to a one to eight year timeframe, and are set to refer to an expected and measurable change to the threat scores for the asset within the strategy implementation period. However, the rollout of priority activities will occur over the eight-year implementation period of the strategy and therefore some outcomes may not be measurable during the strategy review. The targets are based on a conceptual and logical framework; hence outcomes do not need to be measured for every asset. The assumptions within the logical framework will be tested and applied across the region and in some cases across Victoria (see example in Figure 15 below). While targets within the GHWS are considered achievable, the quantities within the outputs provide an indicative level of investment that could be reasonably implemented within an eight-year timeframe.

TARGET LEVEL

TIMEFRAME

TARGET

Long-term resource condition

8+ years

That the riparian vegetation condition improves from good to excellent condition

Less than 25 per cent of the waterway is affected by livestock access Management outcome

1-8 years The altered streamflow seasonality threat score has reduced from 5 to 3

20 km of riparian fencing

35 ha of indigenous revegetation Management output

Annually 35 ha covered by management agreements

One river reach with water managed to meet environmental objectives

Figure 15. Example of the three levels of targets set for vegetation resource condition

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PART D R EGIO N A L WO R KS P R O G RA M & ST RAT EGY I M P L E M E N TAT IO N

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PART D: REGIONAL WORKS PROGRAM & STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION

PART D: REGIONAL WORKS PROGRAM & STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION Part D describes the process for developing targets including long-term resource condition targets (8+ years), management outcome targets (1-8 years) and management outputs (annually), describes the eight-year work plan for priority waterways in each of the six Waterway Management Areas to achieve targets, and describes the delivery approach and outlines monitoring, evaluation and reporting approach of strategy implementation.

SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART D

4.1 REGIONAL WORK PROGRAM 2014-2022

See page 72.

4.2 COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA 4.3 LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Establishes a work program for priority waterways in each. Waterway Management Area. The program:

4.4 UPPER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

• identiﬁes values and threats of each waterway

4.5 UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

• identiﬁes Management Activities to be undertaken and estimates the quantity and cost associated with works

4.6 VOLCANIC PLAINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

• identiﬁes long-term resource condition outcomes • identiﬁes Management Outcome Targets

• identiﬁes lead organisation and partners for implementing actions. See pages 73, 105, 132, 149, 159, 169.

4.7 WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

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PART D: REGIONAL WORKS PROGRAM & STRATEGY IMPLEMENTATION

SUMMARY OF SECTIONS IN PART D (CONTINUED)

4.8 ESTIMATED EIGHT-YEAR WORK PROGRAM BUDGET

Provides an estimate of an eight-year work program budget including monitoring and maintenance. See page 189. Outlines principles that direct implementation of the work program including:

4.9 DELIVERING THE STRATEGY

• description of the tools available to deliver the strategy • an outline of roles and responsibilities of partners • a description of the role of regulation • an outline of management of non-priority waterways. See page 190.

4.10 MONITORING, REPORTING AND EVALUATION

Describes the program to monitor, evaluate and report on progress towards implementing the strategy Identifies process for addressing knowledge gaps that limit the effectiveness of program delivery. See page 197.

Opposite left: Fencing and revegetation project. Opposite right: Electrofishing fish surveys along the Glenelg River. Below left: Glenelg estuary, Nelson. Below right: Fitzroy River estuary mouth Tyrendarra.

Photo: Vin Gannon

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REGIONAL WORK PROGRAM 2014-2022

4.1 REGIONAL WORK PROGRAM 2014-2022 The Regional Work Program identifies management activities that best contribute to maintaining and improving the values associated with each priority waterway.

he activities are derived using logic models and based on the best available information. A risk assessment process enables threats specific to the values of each waterway to be addressed whilst a feasibility assessment ensures that the selected management activities are achievable.

Lead agencies and partners for delivery of activities are included in work program tables. Lead agencies have a legislative or core responsibility to undertake the works. Only partners with a primary supporting role are listed. Other groups and organisations such as Landcare, industry groups and non-government organisations may also contribute to the implementation of activities An Implementation Plan will be developed to guide the delivery of the works program. The plan will provide an opportunity to prioritise activities, review and refine outputs, identify potential funding opportunities and confirm delivery partners (see 4.9).

Below: Platypus. Photo: Tim Chandler

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2 COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The Coastal Waterway Management Area includes estuaries with some immediately upstream freshwater reaches, and wetland s along the entire CMA coast. Land use in the coastal area is mostly for agriculture, predominantly dairy. Coastal waterways are popular with residents and visitors and support a range of recreational activities including fishing, boating, bird watching and swimming.

hreats to the waterways include nutrient and sediment input from both local and upstream sources. Many wetlands are subject to draining, clearing and uncontrolled grazing. Estuaries, which are often close to settlements, are subject to threats associated with urban development. The major river, estuary and wetland assets in the Coastal Waterway Management Area are as follows. Brucknell Creek: A tributary of the Hopkins River, it has large sections of intact riparian vegetation including swamp scrub. It supports a high proportion of native fish including Australian grayling, river blackfish, western crayfish and Yarra pygmy perch. Hopkins River estuary: The estuary is highly valued for recreation and is used for swimming, water skiing and rowing. It is an important nursery area for fish and is recognised under the Go Fishing in Victoria Program as a premier fishing reach. The estuary has significant Indigenous cultural values and forms the border for the Gunditj Mara, Kirrae Whurrong and Tjap Whurrong people. Lower Merri River and estuary: The proximity of the reaches to the large centre of Warrnambool makes the river and estuary a popular fishing destination. The estuary has two channels to the sea; one flows to Stingray Bay in Warrnambool and another section flows through the DIWA-listed Lower Merri Wetlands and exits at Rutledges Cutting. The wetlands support the EPBC-listed orangebellied parrot and migratory bird species protected under international agreements. Lower Surry River and estuary: Both reaches are regionally important fishing destinations. The river has stretches of riparian vegetation in excellent condition. The estuary supports rare and threatened bird species such as the Australasian bittern and intermediate egret.

Lower Moyne River and estuary: The Moyne system has high social and economic values. The system supports an operational port and has very high recreational use particularly for fishing and boating. The estuary and Belfast Lough wetland contain significant EVCs such as saltmarsh and support rare and threatened bird species such as the fairy tern and intermediate egret. Darlot Creek and lower Fitzroy River and estuary: These waterways have very high cultural values and are part of the Budj Bim National Heritage Landscape. The waterways support rare and threatened species such as the Australasian bittern, intermediate egret, growling grass frog and Glenelg spiny crayfish. Glenelg River estuary: The Glenelg estuary is listed as a heritage river under the Heritage Rivers Act and is DIWA listed. The estuary has intact riparian vegetation in excellent condition and supports rare and threatened species such as the Glenelg spiny crayfish and migratory bird species protected under international agreements such as the fairy tern. The estuary has very high recreational values and is used for swimming, boating and fishing. Moleside Creek: This creek flows into the Glenelg River estuary. It is a popular area for fishing and camping and supports rare and threatened species such as the Glenelg spiny crayfish. Lower Eumerella River and Yambuk Lake: This system is a regionally important tourist destination, particularly popular for fishing and boating. The system is a DIWA-listed wetland supporting many rare and threatened bird species such as Australasian bittern, great knot and little egret, and fish species such as Yarra pygmy perch. Wattle Hill Creek: This creek flows into Fawthrop Lagoon at Portland. A channel drains from the lagoon to the sea. The system supports rare and threatened bird species such as Australasian bittern and great knot. In addition, to the estuarine wetlands, there are a number of coastal wetlands such as Long Swamp complex, Bridgewater Lakes, Tower Hill and Lake Condah. These are described in more detail in Tables 25, 27, 29 and 31, respectively.

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2

(CONTINUED)

Figure 16. Coastal Waterway Management Area indicating priority rivers and estuaries

Below left: Brucknell Creek Below right: Yarra Pygmy Perch. Photo: Tarmo A Raadick

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 8. Brucknell Creek (reach 36-13) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: BRUCKNELL CREEK

Identification No: 36-13

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Riparian (1), Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (4), Significant Fish Migratory (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 29 - To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of Yarra pygmy perch in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term 30 - To minimise the probability of extinction of the Australian grayling in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to moderate condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low d - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation f - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-13.1

Install fence (includes works in reach 36-14)

10 km

landholders / CMA

d, e

36-13.2

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

10 ha

landholders / CMA

36-13.3

Develop Waterway Action Plan

1 no.

CMA

36-13.4

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

36-13.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, e

36-13.6

Enhance native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

36-13.7

Establish grass buffer strip

15 ha

landholders / CMA

36-13.8

Maintain non-woody weed control

5 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 9. Merri River (reach 36-38) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: MERRI RIVER

Identification No: 36-38

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high c - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from moderate to low d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low e - The invasive riparian trees threat will be reduced from moderate to very low f - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access g - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Veg – Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (3), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Tree Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (4), Reduced Vegetation Width (5) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-38.1

Undertake dairy best management practice program

500 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

36-38.2

Implement best practice urban stormwater management

500 ha

Warrnambool City Council

n/a

36-38.3

Ensure that works on waterways permits consider management of acid sulfate soils

1 no.

CMA

n/a

36-38.4

Ensure that planning decisions consider management 1 no. of acid sulfate soils

Warrnambool City Council

n/a

36-38.5

Install riparian fence

2 km

landholders / CMA

36-38.6

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

9 ha

landholders / CMA

36-38.7

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 9 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

36-38.8

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

b, c

36-38.9

Establish native indigenous vegetation

2 ha

landholders / CMA

a, g

36-38.10

Maintain grass buffer strip

5 ha

landholders / CMA

36-38.11

Establish non-woody weed control

2 ha

land managers / CMA

36-38.12

Establish woody weed control

5 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 10. Surry River (reaches 37-03, 37-04 and 37-05) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: SURRY RIVER

Identification No: 37-03

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The low flow magnitude threat score has improved from moderate to low c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation e - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-03.1

Implement dairy best management practice program including pasture management

1,000 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

n/a

37-03.2

Implement dairy best management practice program including nutrient management

1,000 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

n/a

37-03.3

Ensure appropriate dairy effluent management controls are in place

1 no.

EPA Victoria / DEPI

n/a

37-03.4

Ensure works on waterways decisions consider acid sulfate soils

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-03.5

Ensure planning decisions consider acid sulfate soils

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

37-03.6

Remove channel

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

n/a

37-03.7

Remove drain

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

n/a

37-03.8

Install riparian fence

3.5 km

landholders / CMA

n/a

37-03.9

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

3.5 ha

landholders / CMA

37-03.10

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 14 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-03.11

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

37-03.12

Establish native indigenous vegetation

3.5 ha

landholders / CMA

37-03.13

Establish grass buffer strip

3.5 ha

landholders / CMA

n/a

37-03.14

Maintain grass buffer strip

3.5 ha

landholders / CMA

n/a

37-03.15

Modify fishway

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

37-03.16

Establish non-woody weed control

8.4 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: SURRY RIVER

Identification No: 37-04

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has improved from moderate to low c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation e - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Veg – Large Trees (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID 37-04.1 37-04.2

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

Refer 37-03.1: Implement dairy best management practice program including pasture management Refer 37-03.2: Implement dairy best management practice program including nutrient management

MOT link d b

37-04.3

Remove channel

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

n/a

37-04.4

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

8 ha

landholders / CMA

37-04.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 32 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-04.6

Management Activity

Refer 37-03.11: Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

37-04.7

Refer 37-03.11:

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

a, d

37-04.8

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

landholders / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: SURRY RIVER

Identification No: 37-05

Management Activity

37-05.1

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 42 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-05.2

Establish native indigenous vegetation

10.5 ha

landholders / CMA

37-05.3

Establish non-woody weed control

17 ha

land managers / CMA

Below left: Surry River estuary. Below right: Glenelg River.

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 11. Fitzroy River (reach 37-07) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: FITZROY RIVER

Identification No: 37-07

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds Waterway (5), Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from high to moderate d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low e - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access f - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation g - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (5), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-07.1

Implement dairy best management practice program including pasture management

500 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

n/a

37-07.2

Implement dairy best management practice program including nutrient management

500 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

n/a

37-07.3

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

37-07.4

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in works on waterway decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-07.5

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-07.6

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

37-07.7

Establish grazing exclusion

22 ha

landholders / CMA

37-07.8

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

4 ha

landholders / CMA

e, g

37-07.9

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

5 ha

land managers

n/a

37-07.10

Establish native indigenous vegetation

22 ha

landholders / CMA

b, f

37-07.11

Construct rock ramp fishway over two stream gauging sites

2 no.

waterway managers / CMA

37-07.12

Establish non-woody weed control

4 ha

land managers / CMA

37-07.13

Develop Waterway Management Plan

See 37-206.6

n/a

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 12. Darlot Creek (reach 37-09) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: DARLOT CREEK

Identification No: 37-09

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low c - The invasive riparian trees threat will be reduced from moderate to very low d - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% e - The in-stream habitat associated with large wood improved from poor habitat to good habitat f - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Veg - Large Trees (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Ground Layer (3), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Tree Layer (3), Livestock Access (1), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-09.1

Ensure acid sulfate soils are considered in work on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-09.2

Ensure acid sulfate soils are considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

37-09.3

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

37-09.4

Undertake management of wild deer

76 ha

land managers

n/a

37-09.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

10 ha

landholders / CMA

a, f

37-09.6

Install in-stream large wood

1 km

waterway managers / CMA

37-09.7

Establish non-woody weed control

5 ha

land managers / CMA

37-09.8

Establish woody weed control

8 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 13. Eumeralla River (reach 37-11) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: EUMERALLA RIVER

Identification No: 37-11

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;best fishing waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from very high to high d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation f - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (3), Degraded Riparian Veg - Large Trees (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Ground Layer (5), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (5), Loss of Instream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-11.1

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-11.2

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Moyne Shire

n/a

37-11.3

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

37-11.4

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

37.5 ha

landholders / CMA

d, f

37-11.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 100 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-11.6

Establish native indigenous vegetation

10 ha

landholders / CMA

a, b, e

37-11.7

Establish non-woody weed control

4 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 14. Moyne River (reach 37-16) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: MOYNE RIVER

Identification No: 37-16

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-16.1

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-16.2

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in planning permit decisions

1 no.

Moyne Shire

n/a

37-16.3

Investigate opportunities to improve fish habitat

1 no.

CMA / DEPI - Fisheries

Table 15. Moleside Creek (reach 38-14) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: MOLESIDE CREEK

Identification No: 38-14

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high Threats addressed by work program Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-14.1

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

ESTUARIES WITHIN THE COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 16. Hopkins River estuary (reach 36-201) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: HOPKINS RIVER

Identification No: 36-201

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - The estuarine vegetation has improved to very good condition c - All artificial estuary mouth openings will be undertaken using a risk approach and considering multiple objectives d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low e - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (3), Degraded Estuarine Vegetation (3), Degraded Water Quality (5), Intermittently Open Estuaries (0), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Reduced Floodplain and Wetland Connectivity (3) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-201.1

Implement best practice urban stormwater management to manage sediment input to the waterway

1 no.

Warrnambool City Council

n/a

36-201.2

Implement best practice urban stormwater management to manage sediment input to the waterway through appropriate licensing and compliance of discharge to the waterway

1 no.

EPA Victoria

n/a

36-201.3

Install riparian fence

5 km

landholders / CMA

36-201.4

Implement EEMSS (including new telemetry station)

1 no.

CMA / land managers

36-201.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, b

36-201.6

Establish woody weed control

3 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 17. Merri River estuary (reach 36-238) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: MERRI RIVER

Identification No: 36-238

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region Management outcome targets a - The estuarine vegetation has improved to very good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high c - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access Threats addressed by work program Degraded Estuarine Vegetation (3), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Livestock Access (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-238.1

Investigate opportunities for permanent protection of wetlands though land purchase and stewardship payments

1,000 ha

CMA

36-238.2

Ensure flows to the estuary are considered in take and use licence decisions

1 no.

Southern Rural Water

36-238.3

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

36-238.4

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Warrnambool City Council

n/a

36-238.5

Install riparian fence

50 km

landholders / CMA

n/a

36-238.6

Implement controlled grazing regime in reaches 39, 40 and 43

50 ha

landholders / CMA

36-238.7

Implement EEMSS (including new telemetry station)

1 no.

CMA / land managers

36-238.8

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 215 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

36-238.9

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

36-238.10

Establish native indigenous vegetation

15 ha

landholders / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 18. Wattle Hill Creek estuary (reach 37-201) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: WATTLE HILL CREEK

Identification No: 37-201

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-201.1

Ensure the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-201.2

Ensure the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

Below left: Fitzroy River estuary.

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 19. Surry River estuary (reach 37-203) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: SURRY RIVER

Identification No: 37-203

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites for Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The estuarine vegetation has improved to very good condition b - All artificial estuary mouth openings will be undertaken using a risk approach and considering multiple objectives c - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% Threats addressed by work program Degraded Estuarine Vegetation (3), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Intermittently Open Estuaries (0), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Tree Layer (2), Livestock Access (1) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-203.1

Ensure the risk of acid sulfate soils in considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire

n/a

37-203.2

Ensure the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-203.3

Install riparian fences (includes works in reaches 3 and 4)

4 km

landholders / CMA

37-203.4

Establish controlled grazing regime (includes works in reaches 3 and 4)

5 ha

landholders / CMA

37-203.5

Establish grazing exclusion

4 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

37-203.6

Implement EEMSS

1 no.

CMA

37-203.7

Establish native indigenous vegetation (includes works in reaches 3 and 4)

4 ha

landholders / CMA

37-203.8

Establish woody weed control (includes works in reaches 3 and 4)

5 ha

land managers / CMA

37-203.9

Maintain woody weed control

1 ha

land managers / CMA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 20. Fitzroy River estuary (reach 37-206) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: FITZROY RIVER

Identification No: 37-206

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites for Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from high to moderate b - All artificial estuary mouth openings will be undertaken using a risk approach and considering multiple objectives Threats addressed by work program Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (4), Intermittently Open Estuaries (0) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-206.1

Ensure take and use licensing assessments consider stream base flows in this catchment

1 no.

Southern Rural Water

37-206.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways permit decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-206.3

Ensure the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire

n/a

37-206.4

Implement EEMSS

1 no.

CMA / land managers

37-206.5

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

37-206.6

Develop Waterway Action Plan

1 no

CMA

n/a

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 21. Lake Yambuk (reach 37-211) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: LAKE YAMBUK

Identification No: 37-211

Values linked to regional goals Sightseeing (5), Non-Motor Boating (4), Motor Boating (4), Important Bird Habitats (5), Drought Refuges (1), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites for Australasian bittern 39 - Maintain the recreational values of Lake Yambuk Management outcome targets a - The estuarine vegetation has improved to very good condition b - All artificial estuary mouth openings will be undertaken using a risk approach and considering multiple objectives c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from very high to high d - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access Threats addressed by work program Degraded Estuarine Vegetation (3), Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Intermittently Open Estuaries (0), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Ground Layer (5), Livestock Access (3), Reduced Floodplain and Wetland Connectivity (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-211.1

Ensure best management practice for dairy effluent management and compliance with licence conditions

1 no.

EPA Victoria / DEPI

n/a

37-211.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways permit decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-211.3

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Moyne Shire Council

n/a

37-211.4

Install riparian fence

8 km

landholders / CMA

37-211.5

Establish controlled grazing regime

150 ha

landholders / CMA

37-211.6

Implement EEMSS

1 no.

CMA

37-211.7

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 100 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-211.8

Establish non-woody weed control

2 ha

land managers / CMA

37-211.9

Develop Waterway Action Plan

1 no.

CMA

n/a

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 22. Moyne River estuary (reach 37-216) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: MOYNE RIVER

Identification No: 37-216

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region Management outcome targets a - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% Threats addressed by work program Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Livestock Access (1), Permanently Open Estuaries (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

37-216.1

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways permit decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

37-216.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Moyne Shire

n/a

37-216.3

Install riparian fence

3 km

CMA / landholders

37-216.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 200 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

37-216.5

Maintain non-woody weed control

landholders / CMA

n/a

5 ha

Below left: Coastal saltmarsh at Belfast Lough (Moyne River estuary). Below right: Glenelg River estuary, Nelson

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 23. Glenelg River estuary (reach 38-201) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-201

Values linked to regional goals Landscape (3), Recreational Fishing (5), Non-Motor Boating (4), Significant Flora Terrestrial (1), Significant EVCs (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 02 - By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region 04 - Maintain access to Glenelg Heritage River corridor for canoeing and kayaking 05 - Maintain the estuarine vegetation condition in excellent condition 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria Management outcome targets a - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high b - All artificial estuary mouth openings will be undertaken using a risk approach and considering multiple objectives c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Water Quality (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Intermittently Open Estuaries (0), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (3), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Tree Layer (1) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-201.1

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways permit decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

38-201.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-201.3

Investigate extent of pine wildling infestation in native forest

200 ha

Parks Victoria

38-201.4

Undertake Estuary Environmental Flow Assessment (EEFAM), including watering of Holloway Swamp

1 no.

CMA

38-201.5

Install riparian fence

2 km

landholders / CMA

n/a

38-201.6

Implement EEMSS

1 no.

CMA

38-201.7

Consider estuary water requirements in future EWMP for the Glenelg River

1 no.

CMA

38-201.8

Establish non-woody weed control

50 ha

land managers / CMA

38-201.9

Establish woody weed control

200 ha

land managers / CMA

n/a

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

WETLANDS WITHIN THE COASTAL MANAGEMENT AREA

Figure 17. Wetland complexes in the Coastal Waterway Management Area

Below left: Long Swamp. Below right: Long Swamp reflooding trial (Nature Glenelg Trust).

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

(CONTINUED)

Table 24. Long Swamp wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Long Swamp

Wetland Type

Deep Freshwater Marsh and Permanent Open Freshwater

Land Tenure

Public

Area of Wetlands

Approx. 1100 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria

No. of Wetlands

Four including Long Swamp (West), Long Swamp (East), McFarlanes Swamp and Lake Bongbong

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Long Swamp is a coastal freshwater wetland which drains to the Glenelg River estuary and to the ocean This wetland is used by the community for recreation and is of high scenic value. The system is DIWA listed and is noted for its flora and fauna. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

(CONTINUED)

Table 25. Long Swamp wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20501, 20502, 20613 and 20614) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: LONG SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: LONG SWAMP (EAST)

Identification No: 20501

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Flora (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 18 - To ensure that the late helmet-orchid can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20501.1

Consider the risk to wetland environments from groundwater use associated with forestry in this catchment

1 no.

Southern Rural Water

20501.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

20501.3

Ensure that acid sulfate soils are considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

20501.4

Undertake assessment of watering needs and drainage issues

1 no.

CMA

20501.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 9 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LONG SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: LAKE BONGBONG

Identification No: 20502

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20502.1

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

20502.2

Ensure that the risk of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

20502.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 3.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Waterway: LONG SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: MCFARLANES SWAMP

Identification No: 20613

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to good condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (4), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20613.1

Ensure that the risk of disturbance of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

20613.2

Ensure that the risk of disturbance of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

20613.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 7 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

20613.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

landholders / CMA

6 ha

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LONG SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: LONG SWAMP (WEST)

Identification No: 20614

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5), Significant Flora (5),Significant Invertebrates (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 13 - The wetland vegetation condition is increased from good to excellent at sites supporting the ancient greenling damselfly 17 - To ensure that swamp greenhood orchid can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (3), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20614.1

Consider the risk to wetland environments from groundwater use associated with forestry in this catchment

1 no.

Southern Rural Water

20614.2

Ensure that the risk of disturbance of acid sulfate soils is considered in works on waterways decisions

1 no.

CMA

n/a

20614.3

Ensure that the risk of disturbance of acid sulfate soils is considered in planning decisions

1 no.

Glenelg Shire Council

n/a

20614.4

Undertake assessment of feral pig impact and undertake weed assessment

54 ha

Parks Victoria

20614.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 54 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

20614.6

Modify outlet

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

20614.7

Establish woody weed control

54 ha

land managers

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COASTAL WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.2.3

(CONTINUED)

Table 26. Bridgewater Lakes wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Bridgewater Lakes

Wetland Type

Permanent Open Freshwater

Land Tenure

Public

Area of Wetlands

67 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria

No. of Wetlands

Four including Bridgewater Lakes North and South and two unnamed wetlands

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Bridgewater Lakes are a line of lakes along a dune corridor. The area has high social values with water sports, fishing, swimming and bushwalking common activities. The area is an important drought refuge for waterbirds and provides freshwater habitat.

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(CONTINUED)

Table 27. Bridgewater Lakes wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20561, 20562, 20563 and 20565) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: BRIDGEWATER LAKES WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (20561)

Identification No: 20561

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes Important Bird Habitats (5) Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

20561.0

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 1 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: BRIDGEWATER LAKES WETLAND COMPLEX: BRIDGEWATER LAKES (NORTH)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 20561

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value is maintained in good condition b - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (4), Soil Disturbance (1) Work program

Activity ID

Management Activity

20562.1

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

20562.2

Establish woody and non-woody weed control

land managers / CMA

a, b

20562.3

Investigate and implement measures to manage water 1 no. boat impact on wetland vegetation communities

Parks Victoria / DEPI

n/a

2 ha

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: BRIDGEWATER LAKES WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (20563)

Identification No: 20563

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value is improved to good condition b - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

20563.1 20563.2

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 0.6 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish woody and non-woody weed control

land managers / CMA

a, b

Waterway: BRIDGEWATER LAKES WETLAND COMPLEX: BRIDGEWATER LAKES (SOUTH)

Quantity

0.3 ha

Identification No: 20565

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value is maintained in good condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Soil Disturbance (1) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

20565.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 3.9 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Refer 20562.3: 20565.2

Investigate and implement measures to manage water boat impact on wetland vegetation communities

n/a

20565.3

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

3 km

landholders / CMA

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(CONTINUED)

Table 28. Tower Hill wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Tower Hill

Wetland Type

Permanent Saline

Land Tenure

Public

Area of Wetlands

Approx. 300 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria

No. of Wetlands

Three including Tower Hill Lake East and West and Wagon Bay

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Tower Hill is a unique wetland type formed in a volcanic crater. These wetlands are of high value for their flora and fauna as well as their geomorphology, geology and invertebrates. Socially, Tower Hill is an important tourist attraction due to its scenery, walking tracks, wildlife and facilities. Tower Hill is listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands (DIWA). It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

100

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(CONTINUED)

Table 29. Tower Hill wetland complex (inc. wetlands 25630, 25632 and 25638) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: TOWER HILL WETLAND COMPLEX: TOWER HILL LAKE (WEST)

Identification No: 25630

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5), Significant Flora (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 19 - To ensure that the proud diuris orchid can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern 31 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

25630.1 25630.2

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 8 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish non-woody weed control

land managers / CMA

8 ha

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: TOWER HILL WETLAND COMPLEX: WAGON BAY

Identification No: 25632

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern 32 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

25632.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 2.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: TOWER HILL WETLAND COMPLEX: TOWER HILL LAKE (EAST)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 25638

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

102

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

25638.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 8 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Table 30. Lake Condah wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Lake Condah

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh and Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Indigenous Protected Area

Area of Wetlands

159 ha

Land Manager

Private (Traditional owners)

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance Criteria for Listing in DIWA

A seasonal stream-fed wetland which provides rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. Geomorphological features are of national significance; the area contains Indigenous sites of international significance. The area is renowned for short-finned eel, blackfish and many waterbirds. Lake Condah is listed on the DIWA. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1) The wetland is of outstanding historical or cultural significance (Criteria 6)

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(CONTINUED)

Table 31. Lake Condah wetland complex (wetland 23598) work program

Basin: PORTLAND COAST

Management Area: COASTAL

Waterway: LAKE CONDAH WETLAND COMPLEX: LAKE CONDAH

Identification No: 23598

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5), Drought Refuges (3), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition 22 - To ensure that listed Important Bird Habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to good condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (1), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

23598.1

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

5 km

landholders / CMA

23598.2

Establish grazing exclusion

75 ha

landholders / CMA

23598.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 75 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

23598.4

Assess wetland water regime

CMA

1 no.

Table 32. Summary of key works and outputs for the Coastal Waterway Management Area

OUTPUT Install riparian fence Develop Waterway Action Plans

125.5 km 3 no.

Establish controlled grazing regime

205 ha

Establish grazing exclusion

101 ha

Implement EEMSS

6 no.

Establish landholder agreements

72 ha

Establish terrestrial pest animal control

958.5 ha

Establish native vegetation

101 ha

Enhance native vegetation

5 ha

Establish grass buffer strips

23.5 ha

Modify fish barrier

3 no.

Install large wood

1 km

Modify wetland outlet structure

1 no.

Establish non-woody weed control

184.9

Establish woody weed control Total Budget for Coastal Waterway Management Area

104

QUANTITY

222.3 ha $7,955,700

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LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.3 LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The major waterway in the lower Glenel g Management Area is the Glenel g River. It has two major tributaries: the Stokes and Crawford Rivers.

he Glenelg River is the only regulated river in the Glenelg Hopkins region. The Glenelg River between Dartmoor and the sea is classified as a heritage river under the Heritage Rivers Act. Land use in the catchment is predominantly grazing and timber production. Waterways are used for stock water and recreational activities such as camping and fishing. Rivers in this area are in relatively good to moderate condition with many wetlands in good to excellent condition â&#x20AC;&#x201C; particularly on the public estate. Major threats to the waterways in this area are associated with unrestricted stock access, pest plants and animals, barriers to fish movement and inadequate flow. More than 60 per cent of the flow of the Glenelg River is diverted to the Wimmera, which creates issues in the Lower Glenelg such as salinity, reduction in water quality and impacts on recreational activities such as camping and fishing. Sand slugs are also moving downstream. By 2020 these are predicted to reach the sections of the river listed under the Heritage Rivers Act near Dartmoor. The nearest sand slug has been identified 5 km upstream of Dartmoor.

The major river assets in the Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area are as follows. The Glenelg River: The river supports rare and threatened species such as Glenelg spiny crayfish, Glenelg mussel and variegated pygmy perch. The Crawford River: The river has large stretches of intact riparian vegetation and supports significant fish species such as variegated pygmy perch and has the largest known population of the Glenelg mussel. Stokes River: The river has some large stretches of riparian vegetation in very good condition including swamp scrub. The river supports significant fish species such as variegated pygmy perch, river blackfish, Glenelg spiny crayfish. There are several major wetland complexes in this area including: The Mundi-Selkirk Wetlands; Lindsay-Werrikoo wetland and Boiler Swamp. These systems support significant species such as brolga and swamp everlasting. These are described in more detail in Tables 37, 39 and 42 respectively.

Below: Crawford River.

Photo: Vin Gannon

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4.3

(CONTINUED)

Figure 18. Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches

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4.3.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 33. Glenelg River (reaches 38-02, 38-03, 38-04, 38-05) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-02

Values linked to regional goals Landscape (3), Recreational Fishing (3), Non-Motor Boating (4), Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Flora Terrestrial (5), Significant EVCs (5), Riparian Vegetation Condition (5), Native Fish (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria 12 - The riparian vegetation of the Glenelg River (38-2) remains in excellent condition 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation – Large Trees (5), Disturbance of Acid Sulfate Soils (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-02.1

Install riparian fence

6 km

landholders / CMA

38-02.2

Establish grazing exclusion

14 ha

landholders / CMA

38-02.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 56 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-02.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

10 ha

landholders / CMA

38-02.5

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

18 ha

CMA / VEWH

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-03

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (0), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (4), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of Instream Habitat (Sediment) (3) Work program

108

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-03.1

Investigate barriers to fish migration

59 ha

CMA

38-03.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 118 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-03.3

Establish native indigenous vegetation

30 ha

landholders / CMA

38-03.4

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

59 ha

CMA / VEWH

c, d, e

38-03.5

Establish non-woody weed control

46 ha

land managers / CMA

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-04

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low d - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (5), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (3), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (1), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-04.1

Install riparian fence

8 km

landholders / CMA

38-04.2

Establish grazing exclusion

8 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

38-04.3

Establish native indigenous vegetation

8 ha

landholders / CMA

a, e

38-04.4

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

16 ha

CMA / VEWH

b ,c, e

38-03.1

Investigate barriers to fish migration

59 ha

CMA

38-03.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 118 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-03.3

Establish native indigenous vegetation

30 ha

landholders / CMA

38-03.4

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

59 ha

CMA / VEWH

c, d, e

38-03.5

Establish non-woody weed control

46 ha

land managers / CMA

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-05

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low d - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (5), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (3), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (1), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-05.1

Install riparian fence

9 km

landholders / CMA

38-05.2

Establish grazing exclusion

9.5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

38-05.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 38 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-05.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

9.5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, e

38-05.5

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

19 ha

CMA / VEWH

b, c, e

38-05.6

Establish non-woody weed control

15 ha

land managers / CMA

Below left: Stokes River. Below right: Crawford River.

Photo: Vin Gannon

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4.3.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 34. Crawford River (reach 38-15 and 38-16) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: CRAWFORD RIVER

Identification No: 38-15

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately management in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low c - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (3), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-15.1

Ensure best management practice is applied to forestry operations in this catchment for sediment management

1 ha

forestry industry

38-15.2

Ensure best management practice is applied to forestry operations in this catchment for nutrient management

1 ha

forestry industry

n/a

38-15.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 42 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-15.4

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-15.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

21 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

38-15.6

Establish non-woody weed control

34 ha

land managers / CMA

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: CRAWFORD RIVER

Identification No: 38-16

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Birds Waterway (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately management in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low c - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (5), Reduced Vegetation Width (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Refer 38-15.1: 38-16.1

Ensure best management practice is applied to forestry operations in this catchment for sediment management

n/a

38-16.2

Install riparian fence

landholders / CMA

38-16.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 36 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-16.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

27 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

38-16.5

Establish non-woody weed control

14 ha

land managers / CMA

27 km

Table 35. Stokes River (reaches 38-20 and 38-21) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: STOKES RIVER

Identification No: 38-20

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4.3.1

(CONTINUED)

Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation – Large Trees (3), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-20.1

Ensure that forestry best management practice is implemented in this catchment for sediment management

500 ha

forestry industry

38-20.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 25 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-20.3

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-20.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

13 ha

landholders / CMA

a, b

Waterway: STOKES RIVER

Identification No: 38-20

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately management in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition b - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low c - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation – Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) – Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Refer 38-20.1: 38-21.1

Ensure that forestry best management practice is implemented in this catchment for sediment management

38-21.2

Install riparian fence

landholders / CMA

38-21.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 32 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-21.4

16 km

Refer 38-20.3: Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

n/a

38-21.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

16 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

38-21.6

Establish non-woody weed control

13 ha

land managers / CMA

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4.3.2

WETLANDS WITHIN THE LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Figure 19. Wetland complexes in the Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 36. Mundi-Selkirk wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Mundi-Selkirk Wetlands

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh, Freshwater Meadow and Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

2,032 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria, DEPI and private

No. of Wetlands

Approx. 20 wetlands including McCallums Swamp, Blackjack Swamp, Mill Swamp, Cemetery Swamp, Grannys Swamp, Argyle Swamp, Lake Mundi and Mosquito Swamp

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

The Mundi-Selkirk Wetlands consist of numerous freshwater meadows, shallow freshwater marshes and some deep freshwater marshes on forested and cleared land aligned along a former coastline. This wetland complex supports important brolga habitat and includes numerous seasonally herbaceous wetlands (a threatened ecological community under the EPBC Act). Although not listed within the RCS, the GHWS has identified this wetland complex as being regionally significant due to the brolga habitat and seasonally herbaceous wetlands. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

It is a wetland which plays an important ecological or hydrological role in the natural functioning of a major wetland system/complex (Criteria 2) It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage in their lifecycles, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail (Criteria 3)

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 37. Mundi-Selkirk wetland complex (inc. wetlands 20137, 20911, 20965, 21063, 21088, 21103, 21154, 21167, 21186, 21229, 21243, 21852, 22953, and 22957) work program

Basin: GLENELG and MILICENT COAST

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (20137)

Identification No: 20137

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition b - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from high to low c - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (4), Livestock Access to Buffer (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20137.1

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1 km

landholders / CMA

a, b, c

20137.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 7.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: MCCALLUMS SWAMP

Identification No: 20911

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

116

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

20911.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 248 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: GRANNYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SWAMP

Identification No: 20965

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5), Significant Birds (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

20965.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 63 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21063)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 21063

Management Activity

Quantity

21063.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 8 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21088)

Identification No: 21088

Management Activity

21088.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 6 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21103)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 21103

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program

118

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21103.1

Establish non-woody weed control

38 ha

land managers / CMA

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21154)

Identification No: 21154

Management Activity

21154.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 23 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21167)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 21167

Management Activity

Quantity

21167.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 1 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21186)

Identification No: 21186

Management Activity

21186.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 0.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21229)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 21229

120

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

21229.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4.8 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21243)

Identification No: 21243

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21243.1

Undertake water regime assessment

1 no.

CMA

21243.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 30 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: BLACKJACK SWAMP

Identification No: 21852

Management Activity

Quantity

21852.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 24 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (22953)

Identification No: 22953

Management Activity

22953.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 13 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: MUNDI-SELKIRK WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (22957)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 22957

122

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

22957.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 16.7 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 38. Lindsay-Werrikoo wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Lindsay-Werrikoo Wetlands

Wetland Type

Freshwater Meadow, Shallow Freshwater Marsh and Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

406 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria, DEPI and private

No. of Wetlands

Seven including Kaladbro, Mill, Church. Kerr and several unnamed wetlands

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

The Lindsay-Werrikoo wetlands consists of a high density mosaic of freshwater meadows, shallow freshwater marshes and deep freshwater marshes mainly on cleared land aligned along a former shoreline. This wetland complex supports important brolga habitat and includes numerous seasonally herbaceous wetlands (a threatened ecological community under the EPBC Act). Although not listed within the RCS, the GHWS has identified this wetland complex as being regionally significant due to the brolga habitat and seasonally herbaceous wetlands. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

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(CONTINUED)

Table 39. Lindsay-Werrikoo wetland complex (inc wetlands 20158, 21131, 21136, 21166, 21180, 21657, 21752 and 20568) work program

Basin: GLENELG and MILICENT COAST

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: KALADBRO SWAMP

Identification No: 20158

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (5), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20158.1

Assessment of water regime and drainage issues, including impact of dam on wetland

1 no.

CMA

20158.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1 km

landholders / CMA

20158.3

Establish controlled grazing regime (private land only) 4 ha

landholders / CMA

20158.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21131)

Identification No: 21131

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from high to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (4) Work program

124

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21131.1

Undertake weed mapping and impact assessment

1.5 ha

CMA

21131.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 1.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21136)

Identification No: 21136

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from very high to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21136.1

Undertake weed mapping and impact assessment

2.6 ha

CMA

21136.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 2.6 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (21166)

Identification No: 21166

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

21166.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 0.4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: MILL SWAMP

Identification No: 21180

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from very high to low Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

21180.1 21180.2

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 1.4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish non-woody weed control

landholders / CMA

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: KERR SWAMP

Quantity

14 ha

Identification No: 21657

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved. b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from very high to low Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (5) Work program

126

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21657.1

Assessment of water regime and drainage impact

1 no.

CMA

21657.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1 km

landholders / CMA

21657.3

Establish controlled grazing regime (private land only) 4 ha

landholders / CMA

21657.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

21657.5

Modify outlet

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

n/a

21657.6

Establish non-woody weed control

185 ha

land managers / CMA

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LINDSAY-WERRIKOO WETLAND COMPLEX: CHURCH SWAMP

Identification No: 21752

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved. b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

21752.1

Remove drain

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

21752.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

2.05 km

landholders / CMA

21752.3

Establish controlled grazing regime

50 ha

landholders / CMA

21752.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

21752.5

Investigate the water regime and outlet impact

1 no.

CMA

21752.6

Modify outlet

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 40. Grassy Flats Swamp (wetland 20568) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: GRASSY FLATS SWAMP

Identification No: 20568

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 16 - To ensure that swamp everlasting can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

20568.1

Remove levee

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

20568.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 10 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

20568.3

Modify outlet

waterway manager / CMA

1 no.

Below: Brolgas in Kaladbro Swamp.

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 41. Boiler Swamp wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Boiler Swamp

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh and Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

193 ha

Land Manager

Public and private

No. of Wetlands

60 wetlands (in Victoria) including Bullock Swamp, Dismal Swamp, Castines Swamp, Horseshoe Swamp, Nowackis Swamp and Cattleyard Swamp

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance Criteria for Listing in DIWA

Boiler Swamp is of high conservation value for its flora and fauna. This wetland system is frequented by two species listed under JAMBA and CAMBA. These wetlands are DIWA listed. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1) It is a wetland which plays an important ecological or hydrological role in the natural functioning of a major wetland system/complex (Criteria 2)

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(CONTINUED)

Table 42. Boiler Swamp wetland complex (inc. wetlands 22937 and 22935) work program

Basin: GLENELG and MILICENT COAST

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: BOILER SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: NOWACKIS SWAMP

Identification No: 22937

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

22937

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 63 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: BOILER SWAMP WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (22935)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 22935

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (5) Work program

130

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

22935.1

Consider the risk to wetland environments from groundwater use associated with forestry in this catchment when assessing take and use licences for groundwater

1 no.

Southern Rural Water

22935.2

Remove channel

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

22935.3

Remove drain

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

22935.4

Remove levee

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

22935.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 6 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 43. Tullich Swamp (Wetland 21141) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: LOWER GLENELG

Waterway: TULLICH SWAMP

Identification No: 21141

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

21141.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Table 44. Summary of key works and outputs for Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area

OUTPUT Assessment of wetland water regime

QUANTITY 4 no.

Install riparian fence

71.05 km

Establish pest animal control

889.4 ha

Establish native vegetation

134.5 ha

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan Modify wetland outlet structure Establish non-woody weed control Total Budget for Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area

112 ha 3 no. 359 ha $4,086,250

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UPPER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.4 UPPER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The major waterway in the Upper Glenel g Management Area is the Glenel g River. It has five major tributaries: the Wando and Chetwynd Rivers, Mathers and Pigeon Pond s Creeks and Steep Bank Rivulet.

he Glenelg River is the only regulated river in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Land use in the catchment is predominantly grazing and timber production. Waterways are valued for sand extraction, stock and domestic water, and recreational activities such as boating, camping and fishing. The Upper Glenelg is regarded as one of the most severely eroded catchments in Victoria. This erosion has deposited four to eight million cubic metres of sand into the Glenelg River and its tributaries, significantly impacting on in-stream values. Other major threats to the waterways in this area are associated with unrestricted stock access, pest plants and animals, barriers to fish movement and inadequate flow.

The major river assets in the Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area are as follows. The Glenelg River: The river supports rare and threatened species such as Glenelg spiny crayfish, Glenelg mussel, variegated pygmy perch and Wimmera bottlebrush. It provides water for agriculture and urban townships. The Wando River: This river supports rare and threatened species such as the variegated pygmy perch. There are several priority wetlands including: The Dergholm (Youpayang) wetland complex, Beniagh Swamp, Victoria Lagoon, Moora Moora Reservoir and Rocklands Reservoir. Many of these act as drought refuges for key species such as the brolga, Australasian bittern and blue-billed duck.

Figure 20. Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area indicating priority rivers reaches

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4.4.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE UPPER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 45. Glenelg River (reaches 38-06, 38-07, 38-08, 38-09, 38-10, 38-11, 38-12 and 38-13) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-06

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from high to moderate d - The in-stream habitat associated with large wood improved from poor habitat to good habitat e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (4), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-06.1

Establish ecological assessment (instream)

1 no.

CMA

38-06.2

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-06.3

Undertake property assessment

10 ha

CMA

38-06.4

Licenced sand and gravel extraction

1 km

CMA

38-06.5

Maintain riparian fence

50 km

landholders / CMA

38-06.6

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

38-06.7

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

22 ha

CMA / VEWH

38-06.8

Install in-stream large wood

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-07

Values linked to regional goals Recreational Fishing (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 06 - Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a ‘best fishing water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition c - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access d - The in-stream habitat associated with large wood improved from poor habitat to good habitat e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (5), Barriers to Fish Migration (0), Degraded Riparian Vegetation – Large Trees (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (4) Work program

134

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-07.1

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

92 ha

CMA

n/a

38-07.2

Licensed sand and gravel extraction

0.3 km

CMA

38-07.3

Install riparian fence

30 km

landholders / CMA

38-07.4

Establish controlled grazing regime

5 ha

landholders / CMA

b, c

38-07.5

Establish grazing exclusion

95 ha

landholders / CMA

b, c

38-07.6

Establish inland aquatic pest animal control

33 ha

CMA

n/a

38-07.7

Establish native indigenous vegetation

50 ha

landholders / CMA

b, e

38-07.8

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

33 ha

CMA / VEWH

38-07.9

Investigate and remove the fish barriers

1 no.

CMA

38-07.10

Install in-stream large wood

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-08

Values linked to regional goals Significant Flora Terrestrial (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 20 - To ensure that Wimmera bottlebrush can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access d - The in-stream habitat associated with large wood improved from poor habitat to good habitat e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (3), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (4), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (1), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-08.1

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-08.2

Licensed sand and gravel extraction

0.3 km

CMA

38-08.3

Install riparian fence

75 km

landholders / CMA

38-08.4

Establish controlled grazing regime

5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

38-08.5

Establish grazing exclusion

195 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

38-08.6

Establish inland aquatic pest animal control

37 ha

CMA

n/a

38-08.7

Develop Environmental Water Management Plan

1 no.

CMA / VEWH

38-08.8

Establish native indigenous vegetation

150 ha

landholders / CMA

38-08.9

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

37 ha

CMA / VEWH

b, e

38-08.10

Install in-stream large wood

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-09

Values linked to regional goals Significant Flora Terrestrial (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 20 - To ensure that Wimmera bottlebrush can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (4), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program

136

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-09.1

Implement best management practice on grazing properties

1 ha

landholders / DEPI

38-09.2

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-09.3

Licenced sand and gravel extraction

0.3 km

CMA

38-09.4

Install riparian fence

120 km

landholders / CMA

38-09.5

Establish controlled grazing regime

25 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

38-09.6

Establish grazing exclusion

375 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c

38-09.7

Implement inland aquatic pest animal control

22 ha

CMA

n/a

38-09.8

Refer 38-08.7: Develop Environmental Water Management Plan

38-09.9

Establish native indigenous vegetation

150 ha

landholders / CMA

38-09.9

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

22 ha

CMA / VEWH

b, d

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-10

Values linked to regional goals Significant Flora Terrestrial (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 20 - To ensure that Wimmera bottlebrush can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation - Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-10.1

Install riparian fence

5 km

landholders / CMA

38-10.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

100 ha

land managers

n/a

38-10.3

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

38-10.4

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

58 ha

CMA / VEWH

38-10.5

Establish non-woody weed control

30 ha

land managers / CMA

38-10.6

Establish grazing exclusion

10 ha

land managers / CMA

a, d

Below left: Wimmera bottlebrush (Callistemon wimmerensis)

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-11

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Flora Terrestrial (5), Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence. 20 - To ensure that Wimmera bottlebrush can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate d - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation - Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) - Shrub Layer (2), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (4), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (3), Thermal Water Pollution (4) Work program

138

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-11.1

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-11.2

Assessment of fish barrier

1 no.

CMA

38-11.3

Refer 38-08.7: Develop Environmental Water Management Plan

38-11.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 50 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-11.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

b, d

38-11.6

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

53 ha

CMA

38-11.7

Establish non-woody weed control

20 ha

land managers / CMA

n/a

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-12

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Riparian Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 10 - Riparian vegetation condition is maintained in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from high to moderate d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation - Large Trees (4), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (4), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (5), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-12.1

Establish ecological assessment

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-12.2

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

1 no.

CMA

n/a

38-12.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-12.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

10 ha

landholders / CMA

38-12.5

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

22 ha

CMA

b, c

Below: Glenelg River

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GLENELG RIVER

Identification No: 38-13

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 3 - Guarantee that the brown toadlet survives and prospers in the wild, and maintains its potential to evolve Management outcome targets a - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high b - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from high to moderate Threats addressed by work program Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (4), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-13.1

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

22 ha

CMA

n/a

38-13.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 22 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-13.3

Investigate opportunities to improve environmental water outcomes from Moora Moora Reservoir

1 no.

CMA / GWMW

a, b

38-13.4

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

22 ha

CMA / VEWH

a, b

Below: Installed large woody debris provides habitat in the Glenelg River

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4.4.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 46. Wando River (reach 44) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: WANDO RIVER

Identification No: 38-44

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian tree value has improved to excellent condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate e - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage f - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (4), Reduced Vegetation Width (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-44.1

Implement best management practice for forestry operations

1 no

forestry industry

c, f

38-44.2

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

38-44.3

Undertake fish barrier assessment

1 no.

CMA

38-44.4

Install riparian fence

3 km

landholders / CMA

38-44.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 60 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-44.6

Establish native indigenous vegetation

3 ha

landholders / CMA

b, f

38-44.7

Establish non-woody weed control

3 ha

land managers / CMA

38-44.8

Establish grazing exclusion

6 ha

land managers / CMA

b, e

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LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.4.2

WETLANDS WITHIN THE UPPER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT REGION

Figure 21. Wetland complexes in the Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area

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4.3.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 47. Dergholm (Youpayang) wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Dergholm wetlands

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh and Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

228 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria, DEPI and private

No. of Wetlands

25 including Smokey Swamp, Green Swamp, Brown Reedy Swamp, Sampey Swamp

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance Criteria for Listing in DIWA

Dergholm wetlands are a network of shallow and deep freshwater marshes. They support a diverse range of flora and fauna of high conservation value. The wetlands are DIWA listed. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1) It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage in their life cycles, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail (Criteria 3)

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4.4.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 48. Dergholm wetlands complex (inc. wetlands 22985, 22994, 23000 and 23003) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: DERGHOLM WETLAND COMPLEX: SMOKEY SWAMP

Identification No: 22985

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

22985.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 29 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: DERGHOLM WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (22994)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 22994

144

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

22994.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 3.4 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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4.4.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: DERGHOLM WETLAND COMPLEX: SAMPEY SWAMP

Identification No: 23000

Management Activity

23000.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 2 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Waterway: DERGHOLM WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (23003)

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

Identification No: 23003

Values linked to regional goals Significant EVCs (5), Wetland Vegetation Condition (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

23003.1 23003.2

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 1.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

landholders

n/a

Establish non-woody weed control

landholders / CMA

1.5 ha

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4.4.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 49. Beniagh Swamp (wetland 23078) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: BENIAGH SWAMP

Identification No: 23078

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to very good condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

146

Activity ID

Management Activity

23078.1 23078.2

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 145 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish native indigenous vegetation

landholders / CMA

72 ha

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4.4.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 50. Victoria Lagoon (wetland 27624) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: VICTORIA LAGOON

Identification No: 27624

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to moderate condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

27624.1 27624.2

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 2.7 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish native indigenous vegetation

landholders / CMA

3 ha

Table 51. Moora Moora Reservoir (wetland 27669) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: MOORA MOORA RESERVOIR

Identification No: 27669

Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

27669.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 15 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

land managers

n/a

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LOWER GLENELG WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.4.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 52. Rocklands Reservoir (wetland 27675) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: UPPER GLENELG

Waterway: ROCKLANDS RESERVOIR

Identification No: 27675

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 35 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets No measurable outcome targets able to be set for eight-year implementation period for the threats addressed by the work program Threats addressed by work program Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

27675.1 27624.1

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 15 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 2.7 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Table 53. \

OUTPUT Install riparian fence Establish controlled grazing regime Establish grazing exclusion Establish terrestrial pest animal control

288 km 35 ha 665 ha 450.6 ha

Establish native vegetation

443 ha

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

269 ha

Modify fish barrier

1 no.

Install in-stream large wood

3 km

Establish non-woody weed control Total Budget for Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area

148

QUANTITY

59.5 km $8,311,000

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5 UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The major waterways in the Upper Hopkins Management Area are the Hopkins River, Mt Emu Creek, Trawal la Creek and Fiery Creek.

he area has been extensively cleared except for pockets of forest at the top of the catchment. Land use in the catchment is predominantly grazing and cropping with a small amount of timber production. Waterways are valued for stock water and recreational activities such as camping and fishing. The main threats to the waterways in this area are associated with unrestricted stock access, weeds, barriers to fish movement, inadequate flow, cropping of wetlands and changes to wetland hydrology.

The major river assets in the Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area are as follows. Mt Emu Creek: This creek is the main tributary of the Hopkins River and supports rare and threatened species such as the growling grass frog. Trawalla Creek: This waterway supports significant species such as the growling grass frog. The region contains some of the most important wetlands in the Glenelg Hopkins region. It supports a significant number of Seasonally Herbaceous Wetlands and some regionally important wetlands such Lake Muirhead, Mt William Swamp and Cockajemmy Lakes. These wetlands are quite large and support many important bird species. These are described in more detail in Tables 57, 59 and 61 respectively.

Figure 22. Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 54. Mt Emu Creek (reach 36-22) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: UPPER HOPKINS

Waterway: MT EMU CREEK

Identification No: 36-22

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high c - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from high to moderate d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation f - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (3), Degraded Water Quality (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (4), Reduced Vegetation Width (5) Work program

150

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-22.1

Implement forestry operations use best management practice in this catchment

1 no.

forestry industry

b, e

36-22.2

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

b, c

36-22.3

Develop Waterway Action Plan including geomorphic investigation

1 ha

CMA

36-22.4

Install riparian fence

20 km

landholders / CMA

36-22.5

Establish controlled grazing regime

1 ha

landholders / CMA

36-22.6

Establish stewardship/landholder agreement

20 ha

landholders / CMA

d, f

36-22.7

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

108 ha

land managers

n/a

36-22.8

Establish native indigenous vegetation

16 ha

landholders / CMA

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 55. Trawalla Creek (reach 36-23) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: UPPER HOPKINS

Waterway: TRAWALLA CREEK

Identification No: 36-23

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high c - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from high to moderate d - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation f - Riparian vegetation width improves to between 10 and 30 metres on average across the length of the reach Threats addressed by work program Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (5), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-23.1

Implement forestry and cropping best management practices in this catchment to minimise sediment input

1 no.

forestry industry / DEPI

36-23.2

Install riparian fence

8 km

landholders / CMA

36-23.3

Establish controlled grazing regime

1 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

36-23.4

Establish grazing exclusion

7 ha

landholders / CMA

a, d

36-23.5

Identify opportunities to amend Crown land water frontage licences â&#x20AC;&#x201C; grazing licences to riparian management

8 ha

CMA / DEPI

36-23.6

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

42 ha

land managers

n/a

36-23.7

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

b, c

36-23.8

Establish native indigenous vegetation

8 ha

landholders / CMA

a, e

36-23.9

Maintain grass buffer strip

42 ha

landholders / CMA

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

WETLANDS WITHIN THE UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Figure 23. Priority wetlands in the Upper Hopkins Management Area

Below left: Mt William Swamp. Below right: Lake Muirhead.

152

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 56. Lake Muirhead

Wetland Complex

Lake Muirhead

Wetland Type

Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

330 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Lake Muirhead is a large permanent, freshwater swamp that is an example of an uncommon mechanism for wetland formation in Victoria. It is a major flocking site for brolga as well as other bird species. It is a DIWA wetland. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 57. Lake Muirhead (wetland 31808) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: UPPER HOPKINS

Waterway: LAKE MUIRHEAD

Identification No: 31808

Values linked to regional goals Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 36 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - Livestock have been excluded from over 75% of the wetland perimeter Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Degraded Water Quality (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Livestock Access to Buffer (3), Reduced Wetland Area (3) Work program

154

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

31808.1

Investigate opportunities for permanent environmental protection

3.5 ha

CMA

n/a

31808.2

Undertake assessment of water regime and drainage

1 no.

CMA

31808.3

Remove drain

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

31808.4

Modify levee

1 km

waterway manager / CMA

31808.5

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

7 km

landholders / CMA

b, c

31808.6

Establish controlled grazing regime (private land only)

14 ha

landholders / CMA

b, c

31808.7

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 14 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

31808.8

Maintain grass buffer strip

landholders / CMA

3.5 ha

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 58. Mount William Swamp

Wetland Complex

Mount William Swamp

Wetland Type

Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

635 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Mount William Swamp is a large, freshwater swamp surrounded by grazing land. The wetland is a good example of a reed-dominated freshwater marsh which is not common in the Victorian midlands. The wetland supports many waterbird species including brolga. Duck hunting is popular. The wetland is DIWA listed. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 59. Mount William Swamp (wetland 31816) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: UPPER HOPKINS

Waterway: MOUNT WILLIAM SWAMP

Identification No: 31816

Values linked to regional goals Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 37 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

156

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

31816.1

Undertake assessment of water regime and drainage as outlined in the Greater Grampians Wetland Strategy

1 no.

CMA

31816.2

Remove drain

1 no.

CMA

31816.3

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

7 km

landholders / CMA

31816.4

Investigate opportunities to purchase land within Mt William Swamp for permanent environmental protection

10 ha

CMA

31816.5

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 10 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 60. Cockajemmy Lakes wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Cockajemmy Lakes

Wetland Type

Permanent Saline and Semi Permanent Saline

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

Approx. 150 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

Ten

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

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UPPER HOPKINS WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.5.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 61. Cockajemmy Lakes wetland complex work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: UPPER HOPKINS

Waterway: COCKAJEMMY LAKES

Identification No: COCKAJEMMY

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (1), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 22 - To ensure that listed important bird habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - The water quality status of Cockajemmy Lakes has been determined Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Degraded Water Quality (-1), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Cockajemmy.1

Undertake assessment of water regime and land use impacts

1 no.

CMA

a, c

Cockajemmy.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

29 km

landholders / CMA

Cockajemmy.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

1,800 ha

land managers

n/a

Table 62. Summary of key works and outputs in the Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area

OUTPUT Assessment of wetland water regime Install riparian fence Establish controlled grazing regime

3 no. 71 km 2 ha

Establish grazing exclusion

21 ha

Establish landholder agreements

28 ha

Establish terrestrial pest animal control

1974 ha

Establish native vegetation

24 ha

Maintain grass buffer strips

45.5 ha

Total estimated budget for the Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area

158

Quantity

$3,342,500

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6 VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The Victorian Volcanic Plain (VVP) is one of 15 listed national ‘biodiversity hotspots’. However, the VVP Waterway Management Area has been almost entirely cleared for agriculture – primarily grazing and cropping.

onsequently, many of the rivers and wetlands are in poor to moderate condition. Some larger wetlands such as Lake Bolac are used for recreational activities such as boating, camping and fishing.

The major river asset in this area is Mt Emu Creek as it supports threatened species such as the Corangamite water skink. The area is well known for its wetland values. Important saline and freshwater wetlands are the Woorndoo-Hopkins wetland complex, Lake Elingamite, the Ramsar-listed Lake Bookar and the Nerrin Nerrin wetland complex. These are described in more detail in Tables 65, 67, 68 and 70 respectively.

The main threats to the waterways are associated with unrestricted stock access, pest plants and animals, barriers to fish movement, inadequate flow, and cropping and drainage of wetlands.

Figure 24. Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 63. Mt Emu Creek (reach 36-17) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: VOLCANIC PLAIN

Waterway: MT EMU CREEK

Identification No: 36-17

Values linked to regional goals Significant Reptiles Riparian (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 01 - All extant populations of the Corangamite water skink are maintained in systems of reserves or areas managed specifically for their conservation, and are able to be maintained in the longer-term Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists c - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition d - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high e - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low f - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (3), Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Bed Instability (Degradation) (3), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (5), Reduced Vegetation Width (5) Work program

160

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

36-17.1

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

36-17.2

Investigate fish barrier

1 no.

CMA

36-17.3

Develop Waterway Action Plan including geomorphic investigation

1 no.

CMA

36-17.4

Install riparian fence

22 km

landholders / CMA

36-17.5

Establish controlled grazing regime

5 ha

landholders / CMA

36-17.6

Identify opportunities to amend Crown land water frontage licences from grazing to riparian management

5 ha

CMA / DEPI

36-17.7

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 116 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

36-17.8

Enhance native indigenous vegetation

33 ha

landholders / CMA

36-17.9

Establish non-woody weed control

47 ha

land managers / CMA

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

WETLANDS WITHIN THE VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Figure 25. Priority wetlands in the Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area

Below left: Lake Elingamite. Below right: Seasonal herbaceous wetland.

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 64. Woorndoo-Hopkins wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Woorndoo-Hopkins Wetlands

Wetland Type

Woorndoo-Hopkins Wetlands

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

Public and private

Land Manager

DEPI and private

No. of Wetlands

DEPI and private

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance Criteria for Listing in DIWA

162

Woorndoo Wetlands are a string of lunette wetlands between Woorndoo and the Hopkins River. Current land uses include nature conservation, grazing and duck hunting. These wetlands are DIWAlisted and provide habitat for a number of threatened bird species. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1) It is a wetland which plays an important ecological or hydrological role in the natural functioning of a major wetland system/complex (Criteria 2)

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 65. Woorndoo-Hopkins wetland complex (inc. wetlands 29078, 29086 and 29106) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: VOLCANIC PLAIN

Waterway: WOORNDOO-HOPKINS WETLAND COMPLEX: LAKE TOWANWAY

Identification No: 29078

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (4), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

29078.1

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1 km

landholders / CMA

29078.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

19 ha

land managers

n/a

Waterway: WOORNDOO-HOPKINS WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (29086)

Identification No: 29086

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 40 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by musk duck 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

29086.1

Undertake water regime assessment

1 no.

CMA

29086.2

Install riparian fence (on private land)

1 km

landholders / CMA

29086.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

18 ha

land managers

n/a

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4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WOORNDOO-HOPKINS WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (29106)

Identification No: 29106

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to good condition b - Invasive flora (wetland) has been maintained at low levels Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (2) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

29106.1

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

12 ha

land managers

n/a

29106.2

Establish non-woody weed control

12 ha

land managers / CMA

a, b

Table 66. Lake Elingamite (wetland 32200) work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: VOLCANIC PLAIN

Waterway: LAKE ELINGAMITE

Identification No: 32200

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to good condition Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (3), Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program

164

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

32200.1

Undertake assessment of water regime and outlets

1 no.

Parks Victoria /CMA

32200.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1 km

landholders / CMA

32200.3

Establish controlled grazing regime (private land only)

5 ha

landholders / CMA

32200.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

5 ha

land managers

n/a

32200.5

Modify outlet

1 no.

CMA

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 67. Lake Bookar (part of the Western District Lakes Ramsar site)

Wetland Complex

Lake Bookar

Wetland Type

Permanent Saline

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

480 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Lake Bookar is listed as part of the Western District Lakes (WDL) Ramsar site. It is a permanent, brackish lake formed between basalt flows. It is a high value wetland for its ecological and educational features and particularly for its birdlife. It is DIWA listed. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

Ramsar criteria for the WDL Ramsar site to which Lake Bookar contributes

It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage in their life cycles, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail (Criteria 3) The wetland supports native plant or animal taxa or communities which are considered endangered or vulnerable at the national level (Criteria 5) 1. It contains a representative wetland type (permanent saline lake) within the south-east Coast Drainage Division 4. It supports waterbirds at critical stages in their life cycle (breeding and nesting) 5. It regularly supports over 20,000 waterbirds 6. It regularly supports 1% of the population of particular waterbird species

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 68. Lake Bookar (wetland 32240) work program â&#x20AC;&#x201C; also refer to Section 2.7.1 and Western District Lakes Ramsar Site work program in Corangamite Regional Waterway Strategy

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: VOLCANIC PLAIN

Waterway: LAKE BOOKAR

Identification No: 32240

Values linked to regional goals Important Bird Habitats (5), Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 22 - To ensure that listed important bird habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 38 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation has improved to good condition b - Maintain the ecological character of the Ramsar site Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Degraded Water Quality (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

32240.1

Implement best management practice on dairy farms program

150 ha

DEPI / dairy industry / landholders

n/a

32240.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

3.75 km

landholders / CMA

a, b

32240.3

Grazing exclusion

15 ha

landholders / CMA

a, b

32240.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 15 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

32240.5

Maintain grass buffer strip

landholders / CMA

a, b

15 ha

Below left: Lake Bookar. Below right: Lake Bookar.

166

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VOLCANIC PLAIN WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.6.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 69. Nerrin Nerrin wetlands complex

Wetland Complex

Nerrin Nerrin wetlands

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh, Deep Freshwater Marsh, Permanent Freshwater

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

526 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

Six including Nerrin Nerrin Swamp, Lake Oundell, Lake Jollicum, The Waterway and the Shallows

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

This system consists of a network of stream-fed freshwater to brackish wetlands. It consists of wetlands that provide a variety of habitats which support a diversity of vegetation types and waterbirds. Current uses include nature conservation, grazing, water extraction, commercial eel fishing and duck hunting. Grazing and cropping occur in the surrounding area. These wetlands are listed on the DIWA. Good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage in their life cycles, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail (Criteria 3) The wetland supports 1% or more of the national populations of any native plant or animal taxa (Criteria 4) The wetland supports native plant or animal taxa or communities which are considered endangered or vulnerable at the national level (Criteria 5)

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(CONTINUED)

Table 70. Nerrin Nerrin wetlands complex work program

Basin: HOPKINS

Management Area: VOLCANIC PLAIN

Waterway: NERRIN NERRIN WETLANDS COMPLEX

Identification No: NERRIN NERRIN

Values linked to regional goals Wetland Vegetation Condition (5), Significant EVCs (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from very high to low d - Livestock have been excluded from over 75% of the wetland perimeter Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (5), Degraded Buffer (4), Degraded Water Quality (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (5), Livestock Access to Buffer (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Nerrin Nerrin.1

Undertake water assessment

1 no.

CMA

Nerrin Nerrin.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

3.5 km

landholders / CMA

b, c, d

Nerrin Nerrin.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 7 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Table 71. Summary of works and outputs for the Volcanic Plains Waterway Management Area

OUTPUT Assessment of wetland water regime Install riparian fence Establish controlled grazing regime Establish grazing exclusion Establish landholder agreements

3 no. 29.25 km 5 ha 20 ha 5 ha

Establish terrestrial pest animal control

192 ha

Enhance native indigenous vegetation

33 ha

Modify wetland outlet structures

1 no.

Maintain grass buffer strips

15 ha

Establish non-woody weed control

59 ha

Total estimated budget for the Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area

168

QUANTITY

$1,140,500

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7 WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA The Wannon Waterway Management Area consists of key rivers such as the Wannon River, Grange Burn, Dwyer Creek and Miakite Creek. Scattered red gums through this area are the key landscape feature. Rivers in this area eventual ly run into the Glenel g River near Casterton.

then become confined within gorge and waterfall sections. The Wannon and Nigretta falls are key tourist attractions to the region. The river supports threatened species such as the variegated pygmy perch, river blackfish, Yarra pygmy perch, growling grass frog and Glenelg spiny crayfish

Grange Burn: This waterway is a key feature of the township of Hamilton and is important for recreation and tourism. Although this section of the river contains a large amount of riparian weeds, its in-stream values are significant. Variegated pygmy perch and Glenelg spiny crayfish are both present in this waterway.

he condition of these rivers vary, with sections through treed landscapes in much better condition than waterways in cleared agricultural landscapes. Predominant land use in this area is grazing and timber production. Waterways are highly valued for stock and domestic water, sand extraction, tourism and recreational activities such as camping and fishing. The main threats to the waterways are associated with unrestricted stock access, sedimentation, pest plants and animals, barriers to fish movement and inadequate flow. The major river assets in this area are as follows: Wannon River: The headwaters of this river begin in the Grampians National Park. River form is highly variable with large sections opening into wide floodplain wetlands, which

Miakite Creek: This tributary of the lower Wannon River contains significant species such as the variegated pygmy perch.

Dwyer Creek: This waterway runs through the centre of the Victoria Valley in the Grampians. It contains significant species such as the growling grass frog. There are several priority wetlands including Bryan Swamp, Gooseneck Swamp, Lake Linlithgow and Lake Kennedy. These wetlands are important refuges for significant species such as the growling grass frog, brolga, blue-billed duck, freckled duck and salt-lake tussock grass. These are described in more detail in Tables 77, 79 and 81.

Figure 26. Wannon Waterway Management Area showing priority reaches

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.1

RIVERS WITHIN THE WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Table 72. Wannon River work program (reaches 38-22, 38-23, 38-24, 38-25, 38-26 and 38-28)

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-22

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 25 - To guarantee that the river blackfish (upper Wannon form) can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the Wannon River Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate d - There is a reduction in the length of waterway affected by livestock access e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (4), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program

170

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-22.1

Ensure that best management practice for grazing is implemented in this catchment

1 ha

landholders / DEPI

38-22.2

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

32 ha

CMA

n/a

38-22.3

Licensed sand and gravel extraction

0.3 km

CMA

38-22.4

Install riparian fence

25 km

landholders / CMA

38-22.5

Establish inland aquatic pest control (carp)

36 ha

CMA

n/a

38-22.6

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 32 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-22.7

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation

1 no.

CMA

a, c, e

38-22.8

Establish native indigenous vegetation

20 ha

landholders / CMA

b, e

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-23

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Fish Migratory (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 25 - To guarantee that the river blackfish (upper Wannon form) can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the Wannon River 28 - To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of dwarf galaxias in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term 29 - To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of Yarra Pygmy Perch in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bed Instability (Degradation) (3), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program Activity ID 38-23.1 38-23.2 38-23.3

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

Refer 38-22.1: Ensure that best management practice for grazing is implemented in this catchment Refer 38-22.2:

MOT link e n/a

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp) Refer 38-22.7:

b, e

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation

38-23.4

Install riparian fence

15 km

landholders / CMA

38-23.5

Establish inland aquatic pest animal control (carp)

25 ha

CMA

n/a

38-23.6

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 50 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-23.7

Investigate opportunities to amend the bulk water entitlement for this catchment to improve environmental water outcomes and undertake FLOWs study to determine environmental water needs

1 no.

CMA/VEWH

38-23.8

Establish native indigenous vegetation

11 ha

landholders / CMA

a, e

38-23.9

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

25 ha

CMA

38-23.10

Establish non-woody weed control

30 ha

landholders / CMA

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-24

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5), Significant Fish Migratory (4) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 25 - To guarantee that the river blackfish (upper Wannon form) can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the Wannon River 29 - To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of Yarra Pygmy Perch in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term. Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low e - The length of waterway affected by livestock access is maintained below 25% f - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (4), Bed Instability (Degradation) (3), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (1), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

Refer 38-23.7: 38-24.1

38-24.2 38-24.3

172

Investigate opportunities to amend the bulk water entitlement for this catchment to improve environmental water outcomes and undertake FLOWs study to determine environmental water needs Refer 38-22.2:

n/a

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp) Refer 38-22.7:

a, d, f

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation

38-24.4

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

38-24.5

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

15 ha

CMA

n/a

38-24.6

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 15 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-24.7

Establish native indigenous vegetation

6 ha

landholders / CMA

a, b, f

38-24.8

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

30 ha

CMA

38-24.9

Establish non-woody weed control

3 ha

land managers / CMA

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-25

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds Waterway (5), Significant Birds Riparian (5), Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence Management outcome targets a - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate b - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from moderate to very low c - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage Threats addressed by work program Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-25.1

Investigate need for reinstatement of large wood

5 ha

CMA

n/a

38-25.2

Install riparian fence

28 km

landholders / CMA

38-25.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 46 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-25.4

Refer 38-22.7:

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation Refer 38-23.7:

38-25.5

Investigate opportunities to amend the bulk water entitlement for this catchment to improve environmental water outcomes and undertake FLOWs study to determine environmental water needs

n/a

38-25.6

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

57 ha

CMA

38-25.7

Establish non-woody weed control

2 ha

land managers / CMA

Below left: Nigretta Falls on the Wannon River. Below right: Wannon Falls on the Wannon River.

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-26

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - The large riparian trees value has improved to good condition b - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to moderate c - The proportion of zero flow threat score has reduced from moderate to very low d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bed Instability (Degradation) (3), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Degraded Water Quality (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Increase in Proportion of Zero Flow (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (5), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program Activity ID 38-26.1

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

Refer 38-22.7:

MOT link b, c

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation Refer 38-23.7:

38-26.2

174

Investigate opportunities to amend the bulk water entitlement for this catchment to improve environmental water outcomes and undertake FLOWs study to determine environmental water needs

38-26.3

Install riparian fence

38-26.4 38-26.5

0 km

b, c

landholders / CMA

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 0 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers / CMA

n/a

Establish native indigenous vegetation

landholders / CMA

a, e

0 ha

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: WANNON RIVER

Identification No: 38-28

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Flora Terrestrial (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 10 - Riparian vegetation condition is maintained in excellent condition 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists c - The low flow magnitude threat score has improved from moderate to very low Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (1), Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Reduction in High Flow Magnitude (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-28.1

Investigate options to remove fish barrier

1 no.

CMA

38-28.2 38-28.3

Refer 38-22.7:

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 39 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

Refer 38-23.7: 38-28.4

Investigate opportunities to amend the bulk water entitlement for this catchment to improve environmental water outcomes and undertake FLOWs study to determine environmental water needs

38-28.5

Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan

39 ha

CMA / VEWH

38-28.6

Modify fishway

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

Below left & right: Wannon River at Cavendish.

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 73. Miakite Creek (reach 38-30) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: MIAKITE CREEK

Identification No: 38-30

Values linked to regional goals Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has improved from moderate to low d - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (5), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program

176

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-30.1

Implement forestry best management practice to manage sediment to the waterway

1 ha

forestry industry

38-30.2

Participate in bulk entitlement, licensing and management rule review process

1 no.

CMA

38-30.3

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

38-30.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 10 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-30.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

8 ha

landholders / CMA

b, e

38-30.6

Investigate fish barrier

1 no.

CMA

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 74. Grange Burn Creek (reaches 38-35 and 38-37) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: GRANGE BURN CREEK

Identification No: 38-35

Values linked to regional goals Significant Invertebrates Aquatic (5), Significant Fish Non Migratory (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 08 - Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately managed in at least three locations 24 - To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayfish can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild Management outcome targets a - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists b - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition c - The low flow magnitude threat score has reduced from very high to high d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from high to moderate e - Livestock have been excluded from over 50% of the waterway frontage f - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Barriers to Fish Migration (4), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Increase in Low Flow Magnitude (5), Invasive Fauna (Aquatic) (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (4), Livestock Access (5), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Riparian Connectivity (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (4) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-35.1

Undertake invasive species assessment (carp)

18 ha

CMA

n/a

38-35.2

Install riparian fence

10 km

landholders / CMA

38-35.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 22 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-35.4

Investigate opportunities to implement low flow bypass at Lake Hamilton

1 no.

CMA

38-35.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

7 ha

landholders / CMA

b, f

38-35.6

Investigate fish barrier

1 no.

CMA

38-35.7

Establish non-woody weed control

22 ha

land managers / CMA

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4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: GRANGE BURN CREEK

Identification No: 38-37

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-37.1

Install riparian fence

5 km

landholders / CMA

38-37.2

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

Below: Grange Burn Creek.

178

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 75. Dwyer Creek (reach 38-40) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: DWYER CREEK

Identification No: 38-40

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds Waterway (5), Significant Amphibians (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence Management outcome targets a - Bank stability is maintained b - No artificial barrier to fish migration exists c - The large riparian trees value has improved to very good condition d - The invasive riparian flora (ground layer) threat will be reduced from moderate to low e - There is no increase in the threat of loss of in-stream habitat through sedimentation Threats addressed by work program Bank Instability (4), Barriers to Fish Migration (5), Change in Monthly Streamflow Variation (1), Degraded Riparian Vegetation â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Large Trees (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Riparian) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ground Layer (3), Livestock Access (3), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Large Wood) (4), Loss of In-stream Habitat (Sediment) (3), Reduced Vegetation Width (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

38-40.1

Investigate fish barriers

1 no.

CMA

38-40.2

Develop a waterway action plan including geomorphic investigation

1 no.

CMA

38-40.3

Install riparian fence

8 km

landholders / CMA

38-40.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 36 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

38-40.5

Establish native indigenous vegetation

5 ha

landholders / CMA

a, c, e

38-40.6

Remove fish barrier

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

38-40.7

Establish non-woody weed control

15 ha

land managers / CMA

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.2

WETLANDS WITHIN THE WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

Figure 27. Wetlands in the Wannon Waterway Management Area

Below left: Gooseneck Swamp reflooding trial (Nature Glenelg Trust). Below right: Bryan Swamp.

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4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 76. Bryan Swamp

Wetland Complex

Bryan Swamp

Wetland Type

Deep Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

727 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria and private

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

Bryan Swamp has good public access and is good for bird watching.

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4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 77. Bryan Swamp (wetland 26609) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: BRYAN SWAMP

Identification No: 26609

Values linked to regional goals Significant Amphibians (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 11 - Secure extant populations of growling grass frogs, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 26 - To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites of Australasian bittern 41 - By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (1), Degraded Buffer (4), Degraded Water Quality (3), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program

182

Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

26609.1

Undertake assessment of water regime and drainage structures

1 no.

Parks Victoria / CMA

26609.2

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

5 km

landholders / CMA

b, c

26609.3

Establish controlled grazing regime (private land only)

5 ha

landholders / CMA

b, c

26609.4

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 21 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

26609.5

Establish non-woody weed control

land managers

10 ha

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4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 78. Gooseneck Swamp

Wetland Complex

Gooseneck Swamp

Wetland Type

Shallow Freshwater Marsh

Land Tenure

Public

Area of Wetlands

62 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria

No. of Wetlands

One

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

A 60 ha ephemeral wetland that is public land and classified as National Park. The swamp provides habitat and refuge for a number of threatened fauna and flora species. In recent years it has supported breeding events for ibis and feeding grounds for brolga.

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4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 79. Gooseneck Swamp wetland complex (wetland 26718) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: GOOSENECK SWAMP

Identification No: 26718

Values linked to regional goals Wetland Vegetation Condition (5), Significant EVCs (5), Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 27 - To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition Management outcome targets a - The water regime of the wetland will be improved b - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition c - The natural wetland area has been reduced by less than 25% Threats addressed by work program Changed Water Regime (5), Degraded Buffer (3), Reduced Wetland Area (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

26718.1

Undertake water regime assessment

1 no.

CMA

26718.2

Establish woody weed control

4 ha

land managers / CMA

26718.3

Remove outlet

1 no.

waterway manager / CMA

Below left: Gooseneck Swamp.

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 80. Lake Linlithgow wetland complex

Wetland Complex

Lake Linlithgow

Wetland Type

Permanent Open Freshwater, Freshwater Meadow and Semi-permanent Saline

Land Tenure

Public and private

Area of Wetlands

1432 ha

Land Manager

Parks Victoria, DEPI and private

No. of Wetlands

Eight wetlands including Lake Kennedy, Salt Lake, Krause Swamp, Lake Bullrush and Lake Linlithgow

Location and Map

RCS Regional Significance

The Lake Linlithgow wetlands are of high conservation value for their flora and fauna. They cover a large area and have the capacity to hold very large numbers of waterbirds in a part of the Victorian Volcanic Plain which has few large permanent wetlands. This system acts as a drought refuge and includes several wetland types that vary in salinity and depth. Socially the wetland system is important for recreational activities such as boating and fishing. The wetlands are DIWA listed. It is a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia (Criteria 1)

Criteria for Listing in DIWA

It is a wetland which is important as the habitat for animal taxa at a vulnerable stage in their life cycles, or provides a refuge when adverse conditions such as drought prevail (Criteria 3) The wetland supports 1% or more of the national populations of any native plant or animal taxa (Criteria 4) The wetland supports native plant or animal taxa or communities which are considered endangered or vulnerable at the national level (Criteria 5)

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WANNON WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Table 81. Lake Linlithgow wetland complex (inc. wetlands 26740, 26766 and 26815) work program

Basin: GLENELG

Management Area: WANNON

Waterway: LAKE LINLITHGOW WETLAND COMPLEX: LAKE KENNEDY

Identification No: 26740

Values linked to regional goals Significant Birds (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations of by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 33 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

26740.1

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

1.5 km

landholders / CMA

26740.2

Establish controlled grazing regime

146 ha

landholders / CMA

26740.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 191 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

26740.4

Establish native indigenous vegetation

landholders / CMA

146 ha

Below left: Lake Linlithgow.

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4.7.2

(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LAKE LINLITHGOW WETLAND COMPLEX: LAKE LINLITHGOW

Identification No: 26766

Values linked to regional goals Drought Refuges (5), Significant Birds (5), Significant Flora (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 09 - Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and flock at consistently used sites without disturbance 15 - To ensure that salt-lake tussock grass can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria 23 - To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, flourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild 34 - To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition b - The invasive wetland flora (weeds) threat will be reduced from moderate to low Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Invasive Flora (Wetland) (3) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

26766.1

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

3.4 km

landholders / CMA

26766.2

Establish controlled grazing regime

3.4 ha

landholders / CMA

26766.3

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 13.5 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

26766.4

Establish non-woody weed control

land managers / CMA

13.5 ha

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(CONTINUED)

Waterway: LAKE LINLITHGOW WETLAND COMPLEX: UNNAMED (26815)

Identification No: 26815

Values linked to regional goals Drought Refuges (5) Long-term resource condition outcomes 21 - To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria Management outcome targets a - The wetland buffer vegetation value has improved to excellent condition b - The water regime of the wetland will be improved Threats addressed by work program Degraded Buffer (5), Invasive Fauna (Terrestrial) (5), Changed Water Regime (5) Work program Activity ID

Management Activity

Quantity

Lead agency / Partners

MOT link

26815.1

Undertake assessment of the water regime and water quality issues within the wetland

1 no.

CMA

26815.2

Establish terrestrial pest animal control at waterway 46 ha as part of a cooperative regional partnership program

land managers

n/a

26815.3

Install riparian fence (on private land only)

landholders / CMA

1.8 km

Table 82. Summary of key outputs and works in the Wannon Waterway Management Area

OUTPUT Assessment of wetland water regime

3 no.

Install riparian fence

122.7 km

Establish controlled grazing regime

149.5 ha

Establish grazing exclusion Carp and predator fish management

5 ha 76 ha

Establish terrestrial pest animal control

521.5 ha

Establish native indigenous vegetation

208 ha

Modify fish barrier Deliver environmental water to reach in line with Seasonal Watering Plan Modify wetland outlet structure Establish non-woody weed control

2 no. 151 ha 1 no. 95.5 ha

Establish woody weed control

4 ha

Develop waterway management plans

2 no

Total estimated budget for the Wannon Waterway Management Area

188

Quantity

$4,491,800

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ESTIMATED EIGHT-YEAR WORK PROGRAM BUDGET

4.8 ESTIMATED EIGHT-YEAR WORK PROGRAM BUDGET The total estimated budget for the eightyear work program is just over $29 mil lion. This is an estimated budget only and it does not include costings for al l the work program activities or actions identified elsewhere in the Strategy. Assumptions have been made in estimating the budget and these include items such as cost share, project management costs, operational costs, materials and labour.

he budgets for recommended activities in each Waterway Management Area are indicative only. There is no commitment to funding of activities and funding will be sought through usual investment opportunities. The work programs provided for individual wetlands within a complex is an example only and do not cover every wetland within the complex. Significant additional actions may be required to manage other wetlands in the complex. As information about other wetlands is gathered and opportunities arise to manage priority seasonal herbaceous wetlands, detailed work programs for other wetlands may be developed and funding sought for these sites.

Table 83. Overall budget by waterway management area for the eight-year regional work program

WATERWAY MANAGEMENT AREA

ESTIMATED BUDGET

Coastal

$7,955,700

Lower Glenelg

$4,086,250

Upper Glenelg

$8,311,000

Upper Hopkins

$3,342,500

Volcanic Plain

$1,140,500

Wannon

$4,491,800

Total

$29,327,750

In addition to the budget for implementing the eight-year works program, additional funds will be required to support the maintenance program (see 4.9.2 ) and undertake the monitoring, evaluation and reporting program (see 4.10.). The maintenance program is estimated to be $362,000 per annum or $2.9 million over the eight-year strategy period. Similarly, an additional $2.9 million will be required over the eight-year period to support the Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting program.

Below left: Frasers Swamp on Glenelg River near Balmoral. Below right: Fiery Creek near Streatham.

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DELIVERING THE STRATEGY

4.9 DELIVERING THE STRATEGY The regional work program is based on a ‘typical year’. Should events such as extreme flood, drought or fire occur during the life of the GHWS, delivery of specific actions in the work plan may need to adapt to the changed conditions and/or risks to priority waterways.

ore specific activities and tasks will be addressed through action planning or development of annual work programs and funding proposals. The regional work program considers the full range of tools and approaches available for waterway management, including: • Market-based instruments • Government investment in on-ground works or environmental water management • Research • Community awareness raising or information provision

4.9.1

ROLES IN DELIVERING THE STRATEGY

The strategy will be delivered by the CMA in close collaboration with various partners including individual landowners, community groups, Indigenous groups, government agencies, industry groups, education and research bodies and local government. The CMA and its partners undertake a range of functions required for implementing different aspects of the GHWS, which are summarised in Table 84.

ACTION 4-2: Encourage community involvement and support partnerships with activities consistent with the CMA Partnership and Engagement Strategy

ACTION 4-3: Promote implementation of the GHWS consistent with the CMA Communication Strategy Lead: CMA, partner organisations and community groups

• Regulation • Land acquisition Land acquisition is not costed in the work program; however, opportunities will be sought to purchase land parcels if it is deemed the most cost-effective approach to reducing the threat to a high priority waterway asset.

ACTION 4-1: Develop an Implementation Plan to guide delivery of the works program using appropriate tools and approaches. The plan will prioritise activities, refine outputs identify potential funding opportunities and provide a basis for identifying delivery partners Lead: CMA, partner organisations and community groups

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4.9.1

(CONTINUED)

Table 84. Agencies and partners and their roles and responsibilities with delivering the strategy

AGENCY/PARTNER

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES/LINKS WITH WATERWAYS

State Government agencies and statutory bodies Glenelg Hopkins CMA

Under Part 10 of the Water Act 1989, CMAs are designated with specific responsibility for the management of waterways, drainage and floodplains in the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Management District. The CMA’s roles and responsibilities include: • developing a regional waterway strategy and associated action plans • developing and implementing work programs • authorising works on waterways, acting as a referral body for planning applications and licences to take and use water • identifying regional priorities for environmental watering and facilitating water delivery • authorising artificial river mouth openings • providing input into water allocation processes • developing and co-ordinating regional floodplain management plans • responding to natural disasters and incidents affecting waterways such as floods • undertaking community participation and awareness programs.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries

The Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) is the lead agency for waterway management. It is responsible for the development of waterway policy, co-ordination of regional delivery and prioritisation of government investment in waterways. DEPI is also responsible for other aspects of natural resource management that are of relevance to waterways, including: • sustainable management of Victoria’s water resources • overseeing the catchment planning framework to promote integrated catchment management throughout Victoria • management of biodiversity • management of public land, including Crown frontages. DEPI is responsible for their administration, including their licensing for riparian management and for grazing and ensuring compliance with licence conditions. DEPI also has a direct on-ground responsibility for unlicensed Crown frontages and is responsible for some aspects of waterways on public land • bushfire management on public land • delivery of sustainability and environment services at the regional level, including some services that relate to waterway management • management of fisheries and recreational fishing in waterways to optimise economic and social value while ensuring the sustainability of resources • investing in and delivering farming programs on private land where waterways occur • overseeing the management of biosecurity, including aquatic invasive species.

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4.9.1

(CONTINUED)

AGENCY/PARTNER

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES/LINKS WITH WATERWAYS

Environment Protection Authority Victoria

EPA Victoria is an independent body responsible for the protection and improvement of Victoria’s environment by establishing environmental standards, and regulating and working with organisations to meet these standards. Their roles and responsibilities include: • identifying the beneﬁcial uses of water environments and the level of environmental quality needed to protect them through the State Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) • setting statutory standards for acceptable water quality and indicators of water quality • investigating water quality incidents classiﬁed as ‘pollution’ • using mandatory and regulatory mechanisms, such as licensing and other discretionary tools to assist in the achievement of water quality objectives • acting in partnership with DEPI and regional bodies to monitor water quality and waterway health, and enables problem solving approaches and independent audits of impacts on the environment and the protection of beneficial uses.

Parks Victoria

Parks Victoria manages parks and conservation reserves in which many waterways are located, including national, state, wilderness, metropolitan and regional parks, marine national parks and sanctuaries and conservation and natural features reserves. They create, manage and maintain visitor sites and manage a range of assets, including visitor facilities and access points, piers and jetties, sporting facilities and navigation aids, many of which are associated with waterways.

Western Coastal Board

The Western Coastal Board is one of three regional coastal boards formed under the Coastal Management Act 1995 (Vic) reporting to the Minister for Environment and Climate Change. The Western Coastal Board’s principal role is to implement the Victorian Coastal Strategy, provide advice to the Minister and the Victorian Coastal Council, and prepare and implement regional coastal plans. Another key activity is facilitating improved coastal management through liaison with industry, government and the community.

Victorian Environmental Water Holder

The Victorian Environmental Water Holder is appointed under the Water Act to manage Victoria’s environmental water entitlements. The Victorian Environmental Water Holder works with the waterway managers, Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder, Murray– Darling Basin Authority, storage operators and land managers to ensure environmental water entitlements are used to achieve the best environmental outcomes.

Water Corporations Southern Rural Water, Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, Wannon Water

Water corporations in Victoria are established under the Water Act and provide a range of water services to customers within their service areas. Southern Rural Water, Wannon Water and Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water provide a combination of irrigation services, domestic and stock services, bulk water supply services and urban water and wastewater services in the Glenelg Hopkins region. Their link with the RWS includes: • broader catchment health and improved water quality links to water supply • water reform, operational role in environmental water management.

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4.9.1

(CONTINUED)

AGENCY/PARTNER

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES/LINKS WITH WATERWAYS

Local Government Moyne Shire, Glenelg Shire, Warrnambool City Council, Pyrenees Shire, Southern Grampians Shire, Ararat Rural City, West Wimmera Shire, Corangamite Shire, Horsham Rural City, Northern Grampians Shire, City Of Ballarat

Councils are involved in the management of waterways in Victoria through their role as responsible planning authorities, managers of stormwater drainage and onsite domestic wastewater systems, users of integrated water systems, land managers, emergency management bodies, and supporters of community groups. Specifically with regard to waterways, local government has the following roles and responsibilities: • incorporate waterway and catchment management objectives, priorities and actions into strategic and statutory planning processes • undertake elements of ﬂoodplain management in accordance with the renewed Victorian Floodplain Management Strategy • develop and implement urban stormwater plans • manage on-site domestic wastewater systems • manage sections of waterways where formal agreements are in place • manage rural drainage where appropriate

Traditional Owners Traditional Owner boards/councils

Traditional Owners have an important role in land and water management. Joint cooperative management agreements can involve establishment of majority Traditional Owner boards or councils that prepare management plans and/or provide advice about the management of specific areas.

Community Landholders

Landholders are vital to successful implementation of this strategy, as most works are on privately owned land or affect areas that require private co-operation, and their land management practices have a vital role in catchment health. Under the Catchment and Land Protection Act landholders are required to: • protect water resources • avoid causing or contributing to land degradation which causes or may cause damage to land of another owner • conserve soil • eradicate regionally prohibited weeds and prevent the growth and spread of regionally controlled weeds • prevent the spread of, and as far as possible eradicate, established pest animals.

Individuals

Community members have an important role in protecting waterway health by avoiding and reporting pollution, reducing resource consumption and contributing to environmental management processes.

Community groups

Community groups (such as Landcare, Waterwatch, EstuaryWatch, ‘friends of’ groups) participate in regional planning, priority setting and the implementation of regional work programs, participate in monitoring waterway condition and undertake projects in priority areas.

Industry

Industry can assist in the protection and improvement of waterways by managing activities in accordance with the principles of ecologically sustainable development, minimising impact on the environment by the implementation of best practices in accordance with ‘duty of care’ responsibilities and good corporate citizenship.

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4.9.2

MAINTENANCE

A maintenance program would also involve an extension program to determine the condition of past works and the level of investment required for maintenance. Maintenance will be funded only when the activities are beyond the agency’s or landholder’s duty of care or legal obligations. The significant work already undertaken by the community to maintain or improve the condition of waterways was highlighted in Section 1.6.1. Maintenance of this previous investment is essential to ensure on-going effectiveness of the works and provide support for landholders and community groups. Maintenance of investment includes, but is not limited to: • Pest plant and animal control • Fencing • Supplementary plantings

4.9.3

REGULATION

Regulatory controls apply across all waterways in Victoria. Works on waterways are required to comply with any legal or statutory requirements regardless of the priority assigned to a waterway. A key responsibility for agencies is to ensure that relevant standards are followed to ensure the protection of rivers, estuaries and wetlands. Agency roles and responsibilities for waterway management are summarised in Table 84. Most waterways in the region are within the Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Management District; however, some also occur within the Strathdownie Drainage District and the Yatchaw Drainage District (see Figure 28). Within these two areas the CMA has no regulatory functions. Works that occur on waterways outside these two areas require Works on Waterways authorisation from the CMA.

• Structural works (erosion control structures, ﬁsh passage).

Figure 28. Waterway Management District boundaries in the Glenelg Hopkins region

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4.9.3

(CONTINUED)

Works on Waterways regulation is a tool for managing threats to the waterway as it establishes minimum standards for particular works, thereby providing a level of protection for the health of waterways. Works regularly involve vehicle and utility crossings. Unauthorised works sometimes occur on waterways either through a lack of awareness of the need for a licence/permit or because the waterway is not well defined. The works can have an impact on the flow regime, connectivity (fish passage), channel stability, water quality and habitat values. Some works are very minor and occur on waterways where the risk to waterway health is very low. It is expected that efficiencies can be made by refining the application and approval process to focus more on the risk to a waterway, and its value. The CMA will review its approach to both the authorisation and compliance process resulting in improved outcomes for waterways and landholders.

ACTION 4-4: Clarify the roles and responsibilities of waterway management functions within the Strathdownie and Yatchaw drainage districts Who: DEPI, CMA, local government, drainage trusts

ACTION 4-5: Review and reform the current approach to authorisation and compliance of works on waterways Who: CMA, DEPI, local government

The CMA region has many rural drainage areas, two of which are not within the Waterway Management District (Strathdownie and Yatchaw drainage schemes) (Figure 29). Some drainage areas operate a rated scheme, while many other areas are smaller, informal drainage networks. While all rural drainage systems ultimately have some connection to a natural waterway, they are purpose-built infrastructure that provides private benefit to landholders. The CMA does not support the further loss of natural wetlands by construction of new drains; however, it recognises the role of rural drainage areas in supporting agriculture and also the aquatic or terrestrial biodiversity value of some drains. Reform of policy and strategies guiding rural drainage in Victoria is currently underway. The Victorian Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to a recent inquiry indicated that CMAs will be responsible for regulating the effects of drainage schemes on waterways and wetlands. The CMA will adopt a riskbased approach to drainage regulation, similar to that described for works on waterway regulation earlier.

ACTION 4-7: Having regard to any future Victorian rural drainage strategy, the CMA will use a risk-based approach to regulate the effects of drainage schemes on waterways and wetlands. The emphasis will be on supporting landholders and responsible authorities to develop rural drainage management plans rather than on an authorisation process Who: CMA, DEPI, local government, drainage schemes committees

ACTION 4-6: Investigate opportunities to incorporate high value and priority waterways from this strategy in local government planning schemes through the application of Environmental Significance Overlays (ESOs) Who: CMA, DEPI, local government

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4.9.3

(CONTINUED)

Figure 29. Designated drainage schemes within the Glenelg Hopkins region

4.9.4

UNDERTAKING MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES ON NON-PRIORITY WATERWAYS

The majority of Victorian Government investment in regional waterway management is directed to works on priority waterways. However, there are also circumstances when investment can occur on non-priority waterways (see criteria in 3.5); for example, it may be necessary to undertake work in upstream non-priority areas to reduce threats to downstream priority waterways.

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Investment may also be required to protect public infrastructure or to support dedicated community groups who are actively working to improve the environmental condition of their local waterway. Finally, existing regulatory controls apply across all waterways in Victoria and work that is required to comply with any legal or statutory requirements must be undertaken.

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MONITORING REPORTING AND EVALUATION

4.10 MONITORING REPORTING AND EVALUATION The management of rivers, estuaries and wetlands in the region is conducted within an adaptive management framework.

t the core of adaptive management is the ability to learn from previous experience and update management approaches to reflect the knowledge gained during implementation. Figure 30 (below) presents the eight-year adaptive management cycle of the Victorian Waterway Management Program and regional waterway strategies. The cycle includes:38 • Strategy and Planning – State policy framework and targets, planning for waterway management through regional waterway strategies with priorities and regional targets • Implementation and Monitoring – Government and other investment in regional priorities, implementation of priority management activities, intervention monitoring and long-term resource condition assessment • Evaluation and reporting – Management reporting, intervention monitoring reporting, resource condition reporting, program evaluation and improvement

ng reporti d n a tion a u al Ev . 3 Evaluation

• present the program logic underpinning the strategy • clarify the assumptions associated with the program logic and identifies strategies to manage potential risks • identify the key questions for evaluation and establishes processes to monitor progress within the framework of the state-wide monitoring program • clarify the communication and reporting needs and identifies the processes required to support these needs • enable lessons learned from monitoring and evaluation to be gathered and inform improvement. The MER plan will be reviewed, at minimum, on an annual basis to ensure it remains current and relevant to informing adaptive management.

1. Str at eg State-wide waterway y

management policy and targets

• Community participation • Research and innovation

Regional implementation

ng nni pla

Intervention monitoring and rescource condition assessment

A detailed monitoring, evaluation and reporting plan will be developed to support adaptive management from planning through to strategy completion. The monitoring, evaluation and reporting plan will:

d an

and reportin porting

Community participation and research and innovation occur across all parts of the program. This knowledge and information is crucial for ensuring effective adaptive management and informing associated monitoring, evaluation and reporting processes.39

Regional waterway management planning, priority setting and targets

Investment

Im ple me nta tion and m onitoring

Figure 30. The eight-year adaptive management cycle of the Victorian Waterway Management Program and regional waterway strategies40

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MONITORING REPORTING AND EVALUATION

4.10.1 MONITORING Monitoring activities are targeted to inform evaluation and reporting on strategy implementation. Monitoring activities also include the collection of information about factors likely to impact on strategy implementation. These include climatic and environmental factors such as climatic variability, drought, flood, bushfire and potential impacts of climate change; and other factors such as land use change, population growth, government investment, economic conditions, community expectations and landholder attitudes. Monitoring activities will be consistent with the statewide monitoring processes co-ordinated through the Victorian Waterway Management Program. This program includes targeted resource condition and intervention monitoring to inform both state and regional evaluation and reporting processes. In addition, the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities is developing a threeyear Ramsar Rolling Review program for reporting the status of the ecological character of Australia’s Ramsar sites including Lake Bookar in the Western District Lakes Ramsar site. Monitoring of the site is required to assess various parameters against limits of acceptable change and fill data gaps (see 2.7.1).

4.10.2 EVALUATION The strategy and planning phase of the adaptive management cycle (Figure 30) includes the development of predetermined key evaluation questions by which to assess the strategy and gain new information and understanding. Evaluation questions provide the basis for evaluation design and associated monitoring processes. Evaluation of the strategy will include an assessment of the extent to which the outcomes have been achieved at each level of the program logic underpinning the strategy. It will also address the assumptions in the program logic and provide direction and improved knowledge for subsequent planning cycles.

The evaluation questions developed for the strategy address the following five categories:41 • Impact – changes to resource condition, management activities or institutions • Appropriateness – addressing the needs of beneficiaries and against best practice • Effectiveness – achievement of desired management outputs and resource condition objectives • Efficiency – value or return from investment • Legacy – return from investment after the activity/ program ends. The scale and frequency of evaluation processes will vary throughout the life of the strategy, and will include an annual review cycle and more detailed interim and final reviews. The annual reviews will assess progress towards the planned management activities and outputs, and associated financials. These reviews will consider any new knowledge and information that may necessitate changes to planned management activities and outputs. The annual review will be undertaken by the CMA and will align with regional investment processes. The interim review will also assess progress towards management activities and outputs, and where possible, review progress towards management outcomes. This review may also provide new knowledge and information that may lead to an update of the strategy to support an adaptive approach. The final review of the strategy will focus on capturing the knowledge gained during its implementation, and an assessment of achievements and progress against strategy targets. This will ensure there is a clear record of achievements and lessons learned, and an evidence base for updating or changing regional programs and management approaches in the future. This final review will be undertaken through an independent process.

ACTION 4-8: Review implementation progress of management activities in the GHWS annually, at an interim review and at a final review in eight years Who: CMA, partners identified in specific actions

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MONITORING REPORTING AND EVALUATION

4.10.3 REPORTING

4.10.4 KNOWLEDGE GAPS AND RESEARCH

Reporting is an important tool to ensure accountability for the investment of government funds into waterway management activities. Over the long-term, consistent and effective reporting provides evidence to evaluate and communicate the effectiveness of this strategy.

The process of developing the program logic and evaluation questions demonstrates the areas where critical knowledge gaps exist. The monitoring, evaluation and reporting plan for the strategy identifies the key knowledge gaps identified through this process, and also identifies the strategies for addressing them. These strategies may involve collating existing information or proposing areas for further research programs. To align with the Victorian Waterway Management Program the strategy will support research that addresses the following:

Annual management reporting is a component of the annual review cycle, and includes reporting on the activities and outputs achieved for the year and associated financials. This reporting is delivered through the CMA’s annual report, and annual investment reports for existing funding arrangements with the Victorian Government. This reporting generally includes spatial information. Financial audits are required to ensure that reported expenditure is accurate and accountable. These audits will be led by DEPI and provides assurance that investment in delivering outputs has been strategic, cost effective and consistent.42 Public reporting against strategy management outcome targets will occur, at a minimum, following the final review of the strategy. The CMA will also support reporting of management outcome targets for the Victorian Waterway Management Strategy in 2016 and 2020. These reporting processes will be informed through the reviews undertaken in the third and final year of the strategy. Resource condition reporting is led through the Victorian Waterway Management Program. This involves the collection, analysis and reporting of information on the condition of Victoria’s waterways every eight years, subject to available funding.43 This reporting, combined with regional knowledge, provides the collective data to assess the condition of waterways over the long-term. The monitoring, evaluation and reporting plan for the strategy identifies key stakeholders at organisational, community, regional, state and Commonwealth levels who should be kept informed of the progress of the strategy or would benefit from strategy information. It also identifies what they need to know and how it will be communicated.

• provides essential knowledge to address critical shortterm and/or strategic long-term knowledge gaps. The resulting research findings will be incorporated into policy and management • targets knowledge gaps or low conﬁdence in the relationships between outputs, management outcomes and long-term resource condition outcomes (if significant for waterway management and investment).44 Research will be directed to investigating those relationships where there is little scientific evidence, or the confidence in the evidence is low. This targeted approach to research also provides an increased focus on prediction and testing of these predictions, rather than more general, descriptive research. It is also vital that research is targeted to better understanding the effectiveness of management activities in which there is significant Victorian Government investment.45

ACTION 4-11: Support regular forums to identify and progress research that addresses key knowledge gaps in waterway management Who: DEPI, CMA, research institutes, universities

ACTION 4-9: Report on outputs and financials each year through the following reports: • Annual investor reports • CMA annual reports • CMA corporate plans • Victorian Environmental Water Holders Annual Report Who: CMA

ACTION 4-10: Develop tools and processes to facilitate spatial data reporting Who: CMA, DEPI

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ACRONYMS

5 ACRONYMS

200

AVIRA

Aquatic Value Identification Risk Assessment database

CAMBA

China Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

CMA

Catchment Management Authority

DEPI

Department of Environment and Primary Industries

EPBC Act

Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

GHWS

Glenelg Hopkins Waterway Strategy 2014-2022

GWMW

Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water

JAMBA

Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

RCS

Glenelg Hopkins Regional Catchment Strategy 2013-2019

RCT

Resource condition target

ROKAMBA

Republic of Korea Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

RRHS

Regional River Health Strategy 2004-2009

VEWH

Victorian Environmental Water Holder

VWMS

Victorian Waterway Management Strategy 2013

WMA

Waterway Management Areas

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APPENDICES

6 APPENDICES APPENDIX 1.

SUMMARY OF CONSULTATION PROCESS USED TO DEVELOP GLENELG HOPKINS WATERWAY STRATEGY

Consultation to develop VWMS

Threats External Consultation Waterway Assets

GHCMA Internal Consultation

Flagship Species Survey

RWS Components

Community Workshops

AVIRA Methods/Tools

High Value Waterways

Risk Assessment

GHCMA Advisory Groups and Board Reporting Committee

20-year Goals

Priority Waterways

8-Year Works Plan

INFFER Workshops

Feasibility Assessment

Indigenous Priorities RAP and RAP Applicantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

GHCMA Technical Expert Panel

GHCMA RWS Development Group

Recreational Fishers Priorities

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 2.

WATERWAY VALUES AND PRIORITIES IDENTIFIED IN CONSULTATION WITH REGISTERED ABORIGINAL PARTIES

Figure 31. Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) and RAP applicants in the Glenelg Hopkins CMA area

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APPENDIX 2.

(CONTINUED)

WATHAURUNG ABORIGINAL CORPORATION WATERWAY VALUES AND ACTIONS The following aspirations and actions regarding waterway management on Wathaurung Country were collated from discussion with Sean Fagan (Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation) and members of Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Board. Facilitate identification of cultural heritage features: The Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung) has commenced identifying cultural heritage features that are not formally recognised in Cultural Heritage Sensitivity Overlays. Property names in the language of traditional owners are an initial indication of a potential feature. Many early settlements were named after landscape features to enable Aboriginal guides to locate properties.

ACTION 6-1: Support â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Country Mappingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities either in a formal project or through informal contact with individual landholders and in community workshops to raise awareness of and record potential features Lead: CMA, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), Landcare and community groups Facilitate access to private land: The Wadawurrung Traditional Owners would welcome access to private properties to identify new cultural sites. There could be arrangements for landholders undertaking environmental works to receive additional incentives if access is allowed and actions undertaken to protect any sites identified.

ACTION 6-2: Investigate opportunities for the CMA to encourage landholders to both provide access to Indigenous project officers for site assessments and undertake work to protect sites Lead: CMA, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), Landcare and community groups

Provide capacity building opportunities: Encourage participation of Indigenous people in training programs to improve skills and increase employment opportunities in environmental programs.

ACTION 6-3: Provide opportunities for Indigenous people to participate in environmental assessment training e.g. use of tools such as habitat hectares and Index of Wetland Condition Lead: CMA, DEPI, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung) Promote knowledge sharing: Wadawurrung Traditional Owners would like to be engaged in forums for information exchange and awareness raising, sharing experiences and knowledge about NRM and cultural heritage with other landholders.

ACTION 6-4: Help co-ordinate and assist with opportunities for Indigenous people to exchange information and raise awareness of Indigenous cultural perspectives with other landholders in the region Lead: CMA, DEPI, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), Landcare and community groups Encourage planting of endemic species of Indigenous significance: Wadawurrung Traditional Owners are concerned about a loss of plant species that are traditionally used as bush tucker or for medicinal purposes. CMA revegetation programs are an opportunity to encourage planting of these species.

ACTION 6-5: Encourage propagation of plant species traditionally utilised by Indigenous people. Support planting of these species in revegetation programs. Develop and provide species lists of culturally important plants to inform revegetation programs Lead: CMA, Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), Land care and community groups, nursery owners

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 2.

(CONTINUED)

Facilitate employment opportunities: Green Teams: Wadawurrung People expressed an interest in establishing ‘green teams’ to participate in on-ground work programs such as weed control and revegetation projects – particularly planting species traditionally used by Aboriginal People.

ACTION 6-6: Investigate opportunities to employ Indigenous people in on-ground work programs such as weed control and revegetation Lead: Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), CMA; local government, DEPI, Parks Victoria Cultural heritage advice: Wadawurrung people also have skills to undertake due diligence assessments. These assessments provide necessary information with regards to Country and are undertaken in the project planning phase and can be used as desktop assessments in Cultural Heritage Management Plans (CHMP). Wadawurrung people can also provide advice on statutory obligations, relating to particular projects, on how to manage risk and protect Aboriginal Cultural Heritage.

ACTION 6-7: Utilise Wadawurrung peoples knowledge of their Country when requiring advice on statutory obligations or developing due diligence assessments and Cultural Heritage Management Plans Lead: Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation (Wadawurrung), CMA; local government, DEPI, Parks Victoria Key Waterways: All waterways are significant and viewed as a priority for protection from threats by Wadawurrung people. Key waterways for focus of works in the next eight years are Lake Wongan, Mt Emu Creek and Lake Burrumbeet.

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GUNDITJ MIRRING TRADITIONAL OWNERS WATERWAY VALUES AND ACTIONS The following values and actions were collated from discussion with Damein Bell and previous engagement with representatives of Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners, which were documented in DSE (2009) Consultation with Indigenous Groups for the Development of the Draft Sustainable Water Strategy (Prepared by Effective Management Solutions). Recognition of Cultural Flows: (Glenelg River and Lake Condah).

ACTION 6-8: Ensure engagement of Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners prior to development of Seasonal Watering Proposals Lead: CMA Support waterway health to enable customary catch of eels by Indigenous people: Promote knowledge sharing: Gunditj Mirring Traditional owners are working with partners such as government agencies, research and tertiary education institutes to establish a program to promote knowledge of traditional and contemporary laws and practices. Encourage planting of endemic species of Indigenous significance:

ACTION 6-9: Encourage propagation of plant species traditionally utilised by Indigenous people Support planting of these species in revegetation programs Develop and provide species lists of culturally important plants to inform revegetation programs Lead: CMA

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APPENDIX 2.

(CONTINUED)

Support Traditional land management practices:

ACTION 6-10: Investigate opportunities to incorporate traditional land management practices in property management plans developed as part of incentive programs. Support promotion of these practices through engagement activities such as ‘yarns on farms’ Lead: CMA, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Group

BARENGI GADJIN LAND COUNCIL WATERWAY VALUES AND PRIORITIES The following aspirations and actions regarding waterway management were collated from discussion with Michael Stewart (Executive Officer) and members of Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation Facilitate identification of cultural heritage features: The Barengi Gadjin Land Council has commenced identifying cultural heritage features that are not formally recognised in Cultural Heritage Sensitivity Overlays.

Provide capacity building opportunities:

ACTION 6-13: ACTION 6-11: Investigate opportunities to involve Indigenous people in training programs run by the CMA Lead: CMA Facilitate employment opportunities:

ACTION 6-12: Investigate opportunities to employ Indigenous people in on-ground work programs such as weed control and revegetation Utilise Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner knowledge of their Country when requiring advice on statutory obligations or developing due diligence assessments and Cultural Heritage Management Plans

Support ‘Country mapping’ activities either in a formal project or through informal contact with individual landholders and in community workshops to raise awareness of and record cultural features Lead: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council, Landcare and community groups Promote knowledge sharing: Barengi Gadjin Land Council is keen to promote knowledge of traditional and contemporary laws and practices.

ACTION 6-14: Support inclusion of traditional knowledge into waterway management Lead: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council

Lead: CMA, Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owner Key Waterways: All waterways are significant and viewed by Gunditjmara as a priority for protection from threats. Increased priorities for investigation over the next eight years include Lake Gorrie, Sinclair wetlands, Kurtonitj wetlands and the Wannon River.

Encourage planting of endemic species of Indigenous significance:

ACTION 6-15: Encourage propagation of plant species traditionally utilised by Indigenous people - Support planting of these species in revegetation programs - Develop and provide species lists of culturally important plants to inform revegetation programs Lead: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 2.

(CONTINUED)

Provide capacity building opportunities: Barengi Gadjin Land Council is interested in opportunities to increase skills of work crews e.g. use of cybertrackers for mapping cultural features.

ACTION 6-16: Investigate opportunities to involve Indigenous people in training programs run by the CMA Lead: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council Facilitate employment opportunities:

ACTION 6-17: Investigate opportunities to employ Indigenous people in on-ground work programs such as weed control and revegetation

ACTION 6-18: Use Barengi Gadjin Land Council and Indigenous knowledge of their country for advice on statutory obligations or when developing due diligence assessments and Cultural Heritage Management Plans

Key waterways: All waterways considered as significant by Barengi Gadjin Land Council. Many waterways form boundaries between different language groups. However, the following waterways have recognised features or particular cultural significance: • Salt Creek (tributary of the Glenelg – confluence just south of Rocklands reservoir) – possible scar trees • Muline Creek – significant density of Indigenous cultural features. Flows to Glenelg River to north of Rocklands Reservoir • Muchong Creek – flows from Black Range to Glenelg River north of Rocklands Reservoir • Two other significant waterways, Wimmera River, which is a key feature and an important trade and travel route, and Mosquito Creek are both in the Wimmera CMA region. Key waterway species Long-necked tortoises are an important food source and cultural indicator species for seasonal change. Eels are culturally important species particularly in the south of the Barengi Gadjin area.

Lead: CMA, Barengi Gadjin Land Council

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 3.

GLENELG HOPKINS RECREATIONAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT PRIORITIES

Fisheries Victoria and the CMA convened a workshop with key recreational fishing representatives on 19 November 2013 to identify key fisheries management priorities for the region. The following notes are a record of actions identified at that meeting. Workshop attendees: John Hotchin and Martin Ellul (VRFish), Tim Curmi (Native Fish Australia), Ray White (Western District Association of Angling Clubs), Gary Cronin (South West Anglers Association and Camperdown Angling Club), Ray McLeod (Lake Bolac Angling Club), Ben Pohlner (Warrnambool Offshore and Light Game Fishing Club and Wannon Water), Brian Murrell (Casterton Angling Society), Steve Wickson, Helen Arundel and Adam Bester (Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority), Renae Ayres (Arthur Rylah Institute, Fish Habitat Network), Cameron McCallum, Anthony Forster and Taylor Hunt (Fisheries Victoria). Workshop apologies: Australian Trout Foundation, Futurefish Foundation, Fishcare, Hamilton Angling Club, Allansford Angling Club, Koroit and District Angling Club and Warrnambool and District Anglers. Background Recreational fishing makes an important social and economic contribution to Victorian regional communities. In particular, the Glenelg Hopkins CMA region provides popular native and trout recreational fishing opportunities. DEPI (Fisheries Victoria) is focused on managing fisheries in a balanced way to ensure ecological sustainability and social and economic outcomes. Fisheries Victoria is also responsible for implementing state government initiatives to improve recreational fishing opportunities by supporting fish habitat recovery works, improving angler access and facilities, fish stocking, protecting fisheries resources and education and compliance activities.

Key recreational fisheries in the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment The Glenelg Hopkins region includes many popular recreational fisheries. In 2012, a survey of recreational fishers they considered important fisheries in the region included the Glenelg River and estuary, Hopkins River and estuary, Rocklands Reservoir, Lake Bolac, Moyne River and Lake Burrumbeet. A more complete assessment of Victoria’s recreational fishing waters can be found in a Guide to Inland Angling Waters of Victoria at: www.dpi.vic.gov.au/fisheries/ recreational-fishing/inland-angling-guide. Strategic Priorities Fisheries Victoria invests in the following strategic priorities for the management of inland fishing in Victoria: 1. Protect key fisheries assets 2. Advocate for fish habitat recovery works 3. Manage fish stocking 4. Encourage compliance with regulations 5. Improve angler access 6. Develop recreational fishing opportunities. The first two of these strategic priorities fall within the scope of the Regional Waterway Strategy. Fishery management priorities The ideas and proposals from the workshop were reviewed by Fisheries Victoria against project feasibility criteria and are captured as fishery management priorities (Table 1 page 208). The outcomes of this workshop builds on past fishery management planning processes, in particular the 2006 Glenelg Hopkins Fishery Management Plan.

Recreational fishing is highly dependent on the health of the environment including the availability of suitable habitat, water quality and water ﬂow regimes to sustain productive fisheries. Recreational fishers acknowledged this critical dependency in surveys (2009 and 2012) that revealed ‘repairing where fish live’ was the most important recreational fishing investment priority. To improve habitat outcomes on the ground, there is mutual benefit in Fisheries Victoria and recreational fishers working with the CMA to identify and collaborate on habitat related projects that lead to better fishing outcomes.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 3.

(CONTINUED)

Table 1: Glenelg Hopkins Fishery Management Priorities

208

No.

Fishery management priorities

Investigate the feasibility of sand extraction on the Glenelg River at alternative downstream locations (Myaring bridge and Beddison road) by identifying potential access points in conjunction with contractor

Work with farmers and appropriate authorities to reduce point source dairy efﬂuent draining into key waterways (e.g. Fitzroy River)

Work with land managers and CMA to rehabilitate native riparian vegetation at Grange Burn

Investigate the effectiveness of the fish ladder and potential improvement to the Bromfield/Wollaston weir on the Merri River

Work with recreational fishers and land holders to establish a habitat hotspot (in-stream and riparian habitat) on the Merri River from the Bromfield/Wollaston weir downstream

Raise awareness of efforts to control and manage carp, improve cross agency and community collaboration and develop a protocol for carp removal based on the results of the trial

Promote recreational ﬁsher engagement in the design, implementation and monitoring of environmental ﬂows

Investigate options to restore ﬂows to the Wannon River and assess the requirement for diversions out of the Glenelg catchment

Investigate options for in-stream habitat restoration (wood, rocks, vegetation etc.) in the lower Hopkins river

Work with recreational fishers and local water authority to enhance Konongwootong Reservoir as a recreational fishery

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 4.

RELEVANT LEGISLATION

State

Regional

Under the Water Act 1989, the Victorian Government retains the overall right to the use, ﬂow and control of all surface water and groundwater for both consumptive and environmental purposes. The Water Act defines the Environmental Water Reserve (EWR) as the amount of water set aside to meet environmental needs. The Victorian Environmental Water Holder was established in 2011, under the Water Act, as an independent statutory body responsible for making decisions on the most efficient and effective use of Victoria’s environmental entitlements. The Water Act directs development of the Victorian and Regional Waterway Strategies.

The Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 establishes Regional Catchment Strategies (RCSs) as the primary framework for integrated management of land, water and biodiversity in each of the ten catchment regions of Victoria. The Glenelg Hopkins CMA is responsible for preparing the Glenelg Hopkins RCS and co-ordinating and monitoring its implementation. The Glenelg Hopkins RCS is the overarching strategy, under which are a range of sub-strategies and action plans for the Glenelg Hopkins region. The long-term objectives and priorities for action in the Glenelg Hopkins RCS that relate to waterways will be implemented through this strategy.

The State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) provides a statutory framework for state and local government agencies, businesses and communities to work together to protect and rehabilitate Victoria’s surface water environments. It identifies beneficial uses of water and sets the environmental quality objectives and policy directions required to address higher risk impacts and activities.

Regional planning processes for waterway management were established in 2002 under the Victorian River health Strategy and implemented through the ten regional river health strategies (RRHSs). The RRHSs identified high value rivers and priority management actions to be undertaken over a six-year period. These RRHSs were the cornerstone of the regional planning framework for waterways (supported in some areas by regional wetland strategies) but have now exceeded their intended lifespan. The development of this strategy is a statutory requirement under the Water Act and will replace the RRHS.

The Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988 (FFG Act) lists threatened species and ecological communities and is the key Victorian legislation for the conservation of these species and communities and for the management of potentially threatening processes. The FFG Act provides for the preparation of a Flora and Fauna Guarantee Strategy, which was launched as Victoria’s Biodiversity Strategy 2010. The Coastal Management Act 1995 establishes a framework for co-ordinated strategic coastal planning in Victoria and provides for the use, development and protection of coastal Crown Land. The Act establishes the Victorian Coastal Council and the three Coastal boards: Western, Central and Gippsland. The Act provides for the preparation of the Victorian Coastal Strategy, Coastal Action Plans and management plans.

The Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy (SWS) sets out long-term regional plans to secure water for regional growth, while safeguarding the future of its rivers and other natural water sources. It investigates the range of potential changes to water availability under several climate change scenarios. The Western Region SWS examines future consumptive demand and environmental needs and sets out proposed options to balance and secure water for all users.

The Planning and Environment Act 1985 provides a template (Victorian Planning Provisions) for the construction of consistent planning schemes across the state. The Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 provides for the protection and management of Victoria‘s Aboriginal heritage. It establishes the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council to advise the Minister in the management of cultural heritage and registered Aboriginal parties. The Act also provides advice with regard to cultural heritage management plans, cultural heritage permits and agreements.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 4. (CONTINUED)

National

International

At the federal level, water reform has been guided by the National Water Initiative (NWI) since 2004. Under this agreement, governments across Australia have committed to actions to achieve a more cohesive national approach to the way Australia manages, measures, plans for, prices, and trades water. The NWI recognises the need to build on the water reforms of the 1994 Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreement to ensure increased productivity and efficiency of Australia’s water use. It includes clear steps to return river and groundwater systems to environmentally sustainable levels of extraction and achieve integrated management of environmental water.

The Australian Government has ratified several international human rights instruments that recognise and protect Indigenous peoples’ special connection to land and waters and provide for the right to practice, revitalise, teach and develop culture, customs and spiritual practices and to utilise natural resources (for example, the United Nations Declaration of Rights of Indigenous Peoples).

The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 is the Australian Government’s central piece of environmental legislation. It provides a legal framework to protect and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and heritage places defined in the Act as matters of national environmental significance.

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (the Ramsar Convention) provides the framework for national action and international co-operation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. The Convention encourages member countries to nominate sites containing representative, rare or unique wetlands, or that are important for conserving biological diversity, to the List of Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites). Ramsar sites are a matter of national environmental significance under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Act.

The Native Title Act 1993 provides a framework for the protection and recognition of native title. The Act gives Indigenous Australians who hold native title rights and interests – or who have made a native title claim – the right to be consulted and, in some cases, to participate in decisions about activities proposed to be undertaken on the land.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 5.

MANAGEMENT PLANNING FOR LAKE BOOKAR IN THE WESTERN DISTRICT LAKES RAMSAR SITE

Table A: Limits of Acceptable Change for the Western District Lakes Ramsar site. (Source Hale, J. and Butcher, R., 2011)

Component, Process and Service

Baseline/Supporting Evidence

Limit of Acceptable Change

Confidence level

Critical components and processes At the time of listing Western District Lakes comprised: • Six permanent wetlands that had not been known to dry completely in European history (Lakes Bookar, Corangamite, Gnarpurt, Milangil, Murdeduke and Terangpom);

Hydrology

• One permanent wetland that dried on occasion in the last 100 years, for a maximum period of six weeks (Lake Colongulac); and • Two temporary wetlands that dried seasonally (Lakes Beeac and Cundare). Water levels varied seasonally in all lakes, with permanent wetlands changing in depth by approximately one metre annually (Coram 1996). LAC based on no change in hydrological type and local knowledge. Salinity within the wetlands varied on annual and inter-annual cycles (Decker and Williams 1988; Hose et al. 2008): Beeac 55 to 300 parts per thousand Bookar 11 to 17 parts per thousand Colongulac 8 to 12 parts per thousand

Salinity

Corangamite 27 to 36 parts per thousand Cundare 77 to 347 parts per thousand Gnarpurt 7 to 14 parts per thousand Milangil 6 to 7 parts per thousand Murdeduke 11 to 14 parts per thousand Terangpom 2 parts per thousand

No change in wetland hydrological type for any given wetland. That is the following hydrological regimes maintained: • Lakes Beeac and Cundare – intermittent wetlands drying seasonally but having water for at least a few months of each year; • Lake Colongulac – near permanent wetland drying for no more than twelve months in any five-year period;

High

• Lakes Bookar, Corangamite, Gnarpurt, Milangil, Murdeduke and Lake Terangpom – permanent wetlands not drying for more than two months in any five-year period.

No change in salinity category for any given wetland. That is the following salinity regimes maintained: • Lakes Beeac and Cundare – hypersaline (greater than 50 parts per thousand); • Lakes Bookar, Colongulac, Corangamite, Gnarpurt, Milangil and Murdeduke – saline (5 to 50 parts per thousand);

High

• Lake Terangpom – fresh / brackish (less than three parts per thousand).

LAC based on no change in salinity category (for example fresh to saline, saline to hypersaline). At the time of listing, the site supported two threatened wetland dependent plant species: Threatened ﬂora

Spiny peppercress – nine populations, total of 0.6 hectares (Carter and Walsh 2006); and Salt-lake tussock-grass – 97 plants were recorded along the eastern lunette of Lake Beeac and 107 plants at Lake Corangamite (DSE 2009).

Presence of spiny peppercress and salt-lake tussock-grass within the Ramsar site at least one-year in any five-year period.

Low

Variability in extent and population size is not known.

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 5. Component, Process and Service

(CONTINUED)

Baseline/Supporting Evidence

Limit of Acceptable Change

Confidence level

Total waterbird numbers not less than 28,000 during summer in a minimum of three years in any five year period.

Medium

Australian shelduck, Australasian shoveler, chestnut teal and Eurasian coot – not less than one percent of population (from latest Wetlands International population estimates) recorded at least once in every five year period.

Medium

Presence of curlew sandpiper, red-necked stint and sharp-tailed sandpiper within the Ramsar site in at least once in every five year period.

Low

Critical components and processes At the time of listing, the Western District Lakes supported large numbers of waterbirds annually (Martindale 1988; Hewish 1988; Peter 1989 to 1992). In an attempt to incorporate the level of variability in shorebird counts, limits are determined based on mean minus one standard deviation. At the time of listing the Western District Lakes regularly supported greater than one percent of the population of Australian shelduck, Australasian shoveler, chestnut teal and Eurasian coot (see sections 3.3.4 and 2.4.2). Waterbirds

Mean abundance (1987 to 1992) was close to the current one percent population thresholds for each species. LAC is based on percentage of population to account for changes in the wider population of these species to be reﬂected in the LAC into the future. The site supports 20 species of migratory shorebird that are listed under international migratory bird agreements. Of these, three occur regularly in the site: curlew sandpiper, red-necked stint and sharptailed sandpiper (AWSG unpublished). Abundance however, is highly variable and insufficient data is available to determine a quantitative LAC.

Critical Services Diversity of wetland types

Wetland types (intermittent saline, permanent saline and permanent freshwater) are maintained by hydrology and salinity.

See LACs for hydrology and salinity.

Not applicable

Physical habitat

Physical habitat for waterbirds is maintained through wetland types and can be indicated by the numbers of waterbirds supported by the site.

See LACs for hydrology, salinity and waterbirds.

Not applicable

Priority wetland species

Priority species at the Western District Lakes Ramsar site are the 20 international migratory shorebirds.

See LACs for waterbirds.

Not applicable

See LACs for threatened ﬂora.

Not applicable

Threatened species

212

The site supports two threatened plant species (spiny peppercress and salt-lake tussock-grass).

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 5.

(CONTINUED)

Table B. Recommended monitoring to meet obligations under the Ramsar Convention and the EPBC Act with respect to the Western District Lakes Ramsar site (Source Hale, J. and Butcher, R., 2011)

Parameter

Purpose

Indicator

Locations

Frequency

Priority

Hydrology

Assessment against LAC

Water level

Each wetland

Monthly

Moderate

Water quality

Assessment against LAC and threat indicator

Salinity

Each wetland

Monthly

Moderate

Threatened plant species

Assessment against LAC

Location, abundance, site hydrological conditions

Lakes Beeac, Corangamite and Terangpom

Annual

High

Aquatic Invertebrates

Knowledge gap

Community composition, abundance

Entire Ramsar site

Once in five years during spring

Moderate

Waterbirds

Assessment against LAC

Abundance and species identifications, breeding observations

Entire Ramsar site

Winter and summer

High

Vegetation (weeds)

Threat indicator

Location, extent

Lakes Beeac, Corangamite and Terangpom

Annual

High

Threat indicator

Abundance

Entire Ramsar site

Annual

Moderate

Pest animals (foxes, rabbits)

Nutrients

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 6. AVIRA VALUES

ENVIRONMENTAL AVIRA

SOCIAL AVIRA

FORMALLY RECOGNISED SIGNIFICANCE

ACTIVITY

•

• Recreational Fishing

International Signiﬁcance - Ramsar Sites - East Asian-Australasian Flyway Sites

• -

National Signiﬁcance Nationally Important Wetlands Living Murray Icon Sites High Ecological Value Aquatic Ecosystems National Heritage Sites

State Signiﬁcance Heritage Rivers Icon Rivers Essentially Natural Catchments Victorian Parks and Reserves Victorian Heritage Sites

•

REPRESENTATIVENESS •

Representative Rivers

•

Representative Wetlands*

•

Representative Estuaries*

RARE OR THREATENED SPECIES/COMMUNITIES

• Non-Motor Boating • Motor Boating • Camping • Swimming • -

Beside Water Activities Walking, Hiking, Cycling Sightseeing Picnics/Barbecues

• Game Hunting PLACE • Heritage - Pre-European (Indigenous) Heritage - Post-European Heritage • Landscape PEOPLE • Community Groups • Use of Flagship Species ECONOMIC AVIRA

•

Signiﬁcant Fauna (Invertebrates)

•

Signiﬁcant Fauna (Vertebrates)

WATER

•

Signiﬁcant Flora

• Urban/Rural Township Water Sources

•

Signiﬁcant Riparian EVCs

• Rural Water Sources for Production

•

Signiﬁcant Wetland EVCs

• Water Storages

•

Signiﬁcant Estuarine EVCs*

• Water Carriers

NATURALNESS

• Wastewater Discharges

•

POWER GENERATION • Hydro-Electricity

Aquatic Invertebrate Community Condition - River Reaches - Wetlands

OTHER RESOURCES

•

Native Fish

• Commercial Fishing

•

Riparian Vegetation Condition

• Extractive Industries

•

Wetland Vegetation Condition

• Timber Harvesting and Firewood Collection

•

Estuary Vegetation Condition*

LANDSCAPE FEATURES

214

•

Drought Refuges

•

Important Bird Habitats

•

Biosphere Reserves

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 7.

THREATS TO RIVERS, ESTUARIES AND WETLANDS CONSIDERED IN THE PRIORITY SETTING PROCESS USING AVIRA

RIVERS

WETLANDS

ESTUARIES

Altered water regimes

− Altered flow regimes − Increase in low flow magnitude − Reduction in high flow magnitude − Increase in proportion of zero flow − Change in monthly streamflow variability − Altered streamflow seasonality

• Changed water regime

• Altered marine exchange (intermittently open estuaries) − Increase in low flow magnitude − Reduction in high flow magnitude − Increase in proportion of zero flow − Change in monthly streamflow variability − Altered streamflow seasonality • Altered marine exchange (permanently open estuaries)

Altered physical form

• Bank instability

• Reduce wetland area

• Bank instability

• Bed instability (degradation)

• Altered wetland form

• Reduced estuary extent

Poor water quality

• Degraded water quality

• Changed water properties

• Degraded water quality

• Thermal water pollution

• Disturbance of acid sulfate soils

Naturalness

• Aquatic invertebrate community condition

• Aquatic invertebrate community condition (TBD)

• Native ﬁsh (TBD)

• Native ﬁsh

• Native ﬁsh (TBD)

• Riparian vegetation condition

• Wetland vegetation condition

Degraded habitats

• Degraded riparian vegetation − Large trees

• Soil disturbance

• Degraded estuarine vegetation

• Degraded buffer vegetation

• Livestock access

• Loss of in-stream habitat − Large wood − sedimentation

• Livestock access

• Disturbance of acid sulfate soils

• Estuary vegetation condition (TBD)

• Livestock access Invasive flora and fauna

Invasive flora and fauna

• Invasive ﬂora (riparian) − Trees − Shrub layer − Ground layer

• Invasive ﬂora (wetland)

• Invasive ﬂora (riparian) − Trees − Shrub layer − Ground layer

• Invasive fauna (terrestrial) • Invasive fauna (aquatic)

• Invasive ﬂora (aquatic)

• Invasive fauna (terrestrial)

• Invasive fauna (aquatic

• Invasive fauna (aquatic)

Reduced connectivity

• Barriers to ﬁsh migration

• Reduced wetland connectivity (TBD)

• Barriers to estuarine biota

• Reduced riparian connectivity − Longitudinal continuity

• Reduced ﬂoodplain and wetland connectivity

− Vegetation width • Reduced ﬂoodplain connectivity

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 8.

AVIRA METRICS/CATEGORIES AND SCORES REQUIRED FOR WATERWAYS TO BE CLASSIFIED AS HIGH VALUE

Value type

High value category

AVIRA score / category

Environmental values Formally recognised – international significance

Formally recognised – national significance

Representativeness

Rare or threatened species / communities

Ramsar Sites (wetlands only)

Yes

East Asian-Australasian Flyway sites (wetlands / estuaries only)

Yes

Nationally Important Wetlands

Yes

Living Murray Icon Sites

Yes

National Heritage Sites

Yes

Heritage Rivers

Yes

Icon Rivers

Yes

Essentially Natural Catchments

Yes

Victorian Parks and Reserves

Yes

Victorian Heritage Sites

Yes

Representative Rivers

Yes

Significant fish

4-5

Significant birds

4-5

Significant amphibians (rivers/wetlands only)

4-5

Significant invertebrates (rivers and wetlands only)

4-5

Significant reptiles

4-5

Significant mammals (rivers and wetlands only)

4-5

Signiﬁcant ﬂora

4-5

Significant riparian EVCs (rivers only)

Naturalness

Significant wetland EVCs (wetlands only)

4-5

Significant estuarine EVCs (estuaries only)

4-5

Aquatic invertebrate community condition (rivers / wetlands only)

4-5

Native fish communities (rivers only)

4-5

Riparian vegetation condition (rivers only)

4-5

Wetland vegetation condition (wetlands only)

4-5

Drought refuges

3,5

Important bird habitat Biosphere reserves

216

5 Yes

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 8.

(CONTINUED)

Value type

High value category

AVIRA score / category

Social values

Activity

Recreational fishing

Non-motor boating

4-5

Motor boating

4-5

Camping

4-5

Swimming

Beside water activities: walking, hiking, cycling, sightseeing, picnics/barbecues

Game hunting

Heritage: Aboriginal cultural heritage, post-European heritage Landscape People

known 3-5

Community groups

Use of ďŹ&#x201A;agship species

Economic values

Water

Power generation

Other resources

Urban/rural township water sources

3-5

Rural water sources for production

3-5

Water carriers (rivers/wetlands only)

Waste water discharges

Water storages (rivers/wetlands only)

3-5

Hydro-electricity (rivers/wetlands only)

3-5

Commercial fishing

Extractive industries

Timber harvesting and firewood collection

3,5

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

HIGH VALUE RIVERS, ESTUARIES AND WETLANDS IN THE GLENELG HOPKINS REGION Environmental Values

218

Formally Recognised Significance

Rare or Threatened Species / Communities

Name

Number

HOPKINS RIVER

36-02

HOPKINS RIVER

36-03

HOPKINS RIVER

36-04

HOPKINS RIVER

36-05

HOPKINS RIVER

36-06

HOPKINS RIVER

36-07

HOPKINS RIVER

36-08

HOPKINS RIVER

36-09

HOPKINS RIVER

36-10

HOPKINS RIVER

36-11

HOPKINS RIVER

36-12

BRUCKNELL CREEK

36-13

DEEP CREEK

36-14

MT EMU CREEK

36-15

MT EMU CREEK

36-16

MT EMU CREEK

36-17

MT EMU CREEK

36-18

BATTLE CREEK

36-19

BURRUMBEET CREEK

36-20

BURRUMBEET CREEK

36-21

MT EMU CREEK

36-22

TRAWALLA CREEK

36-23

BLIND CREEK

36-24

FIERY CREEK

36-25

FIERY CREEK

36-26

FIERY CREEK

36-27

FIERY CREEK

36-28

FIERY CREEK

36-29

Representativeness

Naturalness

Landscape Features

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED)

Social Values Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

220

Formally Recognised Significance

Rare or Threatened Species / Communities

Naturalness

Name

Number

SALT CREEK

36-30

MUSTON CREEK

36-31

MUSTON CREEK

36-32

BURCHETT CREEK

36-33

GRAYS CREEK

36-34

REEDY CREEK

36-35

BACK CREEK

36-36

GOOD MORNING BILL CREEK

36-37

MERRI RIVER

36-38

MERRI RIVER

36-39

SPRING CREEK

36-40

SPRING CREEK

36-41

SPRING CREEK

36-42

DRYSDALE CREEK

36-43

HOPKINS RIVER

36-44

WATTLE HILL CREEK

37-01

WATTLE HILL CREEK

37-02

SURRY RIVER

37-03

SURRY RIVER

37-04

SURRY RIVER

37-05

FITZROY RIVER

37-07

FITZROY RIVER

37-08

DARLOTS CREEK

37-09

DARLOTS CREEK

37-10

EUMERALLA RIVER

37-11

EUMERALLA RIVER

37-12

EUMERALLA RIVER

37-13

SHAW RIVER

37-14

Representativeness

Landscape Features

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X

X X

X X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

222

Rare or Threatened Species / Communities

Naturalness

37-15

MOYNE RIVER

37-16

MOYNE RIVER

37-17

BACK CREEK

37-18

GLENELG RIVER

38-02

GLENELG RIVER

38-03

GLENELG RIVER

38-04

GLENELG RIVER

38-05

GLENELG RIVER

38-06

GLENELG RIVER

38-07

GLENELG RIVER

38-08

GLENELG RIVER

38-09

GLENELG RIVER

38-10

GLENELG RIVER

38-11

GLENELG RIVER

38-12

GLENELG RIVER

38-13

MOLESIDE CREEK

38-14

CRAWFORD RIVER

38-15

CRAWFORD RIVER

38-16

CRAWFORD RIVER

38-17

SPRINGBURN CREEK

38-18

KANGAROO CREEK

38-19

STOKES RIVER

38-20

STOKES RIVER

38-21

WANNON RIVER

38-22

WANNON RIVER

38-23

WANNON RIVER

38-24

WANNON RIVER

38-25

Name

Number

SHAW RIVER

Formally Recognised Significance

Representativeness

Landscape Features

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

224

Name

Number

Formally Recognised Significance

Rare or Threatened Species / Communities

Naturalness

WANNON RIVER

38-26

WANNON RIVER

38-27

WANNON RIVER

38-28

MIAKITE CREEK

38-29

MIAKITE CREEK

38-30

BRYANS CREEK

38-31

BRYANS CREEK

38-32

BRYANS CREEK

38-33

KONONG WOOTONG CREEK

38-34

GRANGE BURN CREEK

38-35

GRANGE BURN CREEK

38-36

GRANGE BURN CREEK

38-37

GRANGE BURN CREEK

Representativeness

Landscape Features

X X

38-38

VIOLET CREEK

38-39

DWYER CREEK

38-40

DWYER CREEK

38-41

COX CREEK

38-42

BOONAWAH CREEK

38-43

WANDO RIVER

38-44

WANDO RIVER

38-45

STEEP BANK RIVULET

38-46

CHETWYND RIVER

38-47

PIGEON PONDS CREEK

38-48

PIGEON PONDS CREEK

38-49

SALT CREEK

38-50

MATHERS CREEK

38-51

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place X

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X X

X X

X X X X X X X X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway Formally Recognised Significance

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/ Communities

Basin

Name

Number

HOPKINS

Hopkins River

36~201

HOPKINS

Merri River

36~238

PORTLAND COAST

Wattle Hill Creek

37~201

PORTLAND COAST

Surrey River

37~203

HOPKINS

Merri River

36~238

PORTLAND COAST

Wattle Hill Creek

37~201

PORTLAND COAST

Surrey River

37~203

X X

Environmental Values

Waterway Number

Naturalness

Formally Recognised Significance

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

38~4~W12 39~~W38

226

20112

20113

20137

20153

20158

20163

20164

20167

20168

20173

20184

20304

20310

20501

20502

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Economic Values

Landscape Features

Activity

Place

People

Place

Other Resources

Social Values Activity

Water

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X X

X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway Number

Formally Recognised Significance

20533

20542

20546

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Landscape Features

20561 20562

Naturalness

X X

20563

20564

20565

20568

20576 20578 20580

228

20613

20614

20911

20930

20939

20942

20965

20983

20987

21015

21044

21046

21063

21069

21073

21076

21079

21088

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X

X X

X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway

230

Number

Formally Recognised Significance

21089

21090

21094

21102

21103

21108

21109

21118

21121

21131

21132

21136

21137

21140

21141

21146

21151

21152

21154

21157

21158

21166

21167

21170

21172

21175

21180

21181

21182

21186

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X

X X X X

X X

X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway

232

Number

Formally Recognised Significance

21187

21188

21191

21196

21203

21207

21215

21217

21224

21229

21232

21239

21243

21246

21252

21267

21270

21271

21281

21284

21300

21313

21354

21472

21485

21489

21506

21554

21561

21611

21651

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X X X

X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway

234

Number

Formally Recognised Significance

21657

21670

21688

21720

21748

21749

21752

21753

21765

21771

21783

21789

21804

21811

21827

21830

21833

21839

21842

21843

21844

21847

21850

21851

21852

21853

21854

21858

21898

21909

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X X X X X X

X X X X

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway Number

Formally Recognised Significance

21915

21916

21920

21921

21924

22902

22909

22910

22912

22921

22924

22925

22929

22930

22932

22933

22934

22935

22937

22938

22941

22942

22944

22946

22948

22949

22953

22955

22957

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

22963

236

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X X X X X X X

X X

X X X X

X X

X X X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway Number

Formally Recognised Significance

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

22964 22965 22966 22967

22968

22973

22976 22981

22985

22992

22994

22997

22999

23000

23002

23003

23006

23008

23010

23013

23060

23064

23066

23068

23072

23074

23077

23078

238

23083

23091

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X X X

X X

X X X X X X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Environmental Values

Waterway Number

Formally Recognised Significance

23092

23096

23099

23108

23109

Representativeness

Rare or Threatened Species/Communities

Naturalness

Landscape Features

25313 25630

25632

25636

25638

26609

26740

26766

26815

X X

26928 27624

27669

27675

28317

29078

29086

29106

31808

31816

32200

32240

51464

28269

240

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 9.

(CONTINUED) Social Values

Activity

Place

Economic Values People

Water

Power Generation

Other Resources

X X X X X X

X X

X X X

X X

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 10. USING GOALS TO PRIORITISE RIVER AND ESTUARY REACHES The values listed in AVIRA were used to assess each river reach and estuary against each 20-year goal. Table A (below) outlines the criteria used to identify the river reaches and estuaries which were consistent with regional goals. Table A. Criteria for identifying rivers and estuaries linked to regional goals

GOAL

CRITERIA

Maintain heritage river values in the Glenelg River

River reach 38-2 and estuary reach 38-201 Within the heritage river reaches: Score of 5 for: • Significant EVCs • Landscape • Recreational fishing Score of 4 or 5 for: • Riparian vegetation condition • Significant flora terrestrial • Native fish (not for estuaries) • Non-motor boating

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Score of 4 or 5 for significant fish, with three or more species identified Presence of Glenelg spiny crayfish Presence of variegated pygmy perch

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species

Score of 5 for any of: • Significant amphibians • Significant birds riparian • Significant birds waterway • Significant reptiles aquatic • Significant reptiles riparian • Significant flora terrestrial • Significant EVC

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

242

Score of 5 for recreational fishing

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 11. USING GOALS TO PRIORITISE WETLANDS The values listed in AVIRA were used to assess wetlands against each 20-year goal. Table B (below) outlines the criteria used to identify the wetlands which were consistent with regional goals. Table B. Criteria for identifying wetlands linked to regional goals

GOAL

CRITERIA

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Step 1: RCS wetlands – all wetlands included in the complexes of the RCS wetlands (note that a number of the RCS wetlands were not IWC 1 wetlands and therefore did not appear in AVIRA). The CMA sourced additional data to include these in the GHWS. Step 2: Within the RCS wetlands, measures relating to the DIWA listing for those wetlands were: • Yes (drought refuge or important bird habitat) • Score of 5 for any of the signiﬁcant species measures, and the score relates to an EPBC listed species or community • Yes for post European heritage

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. PRIORITY WATERWAYS AND LINKS TO THE REGIONAL GOALS Table A. Priority rivers and their links to the regional goals

Reach

Name

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Coastal Waterway Management Area 36-13

Brucknell Creek

36-38

Merri River

37-03

Surry River

37-04

Surry River

37-05

Surry River

37-07

Fitzroy River

37-09

Darlots Creek

37-11

Eumeralla River

37-16

Moyne River

38-02

Glenelg River

38-14

Moleside Creek

X X

Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area

244

38-03

Glenelg River

38-04

Glenelg River

38-05

Glenelg River

38-06

Glenelg River

38-15

Crawford River

38-16

Crawford River

38-20

Stokes River

38-21

Stokes River

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. (CONTINUED)

Reach

Name

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area 38-07

Glenelg River

38-08

Glenelg River

38-09

Glenelg River

38-10

Glenelg River

38-11

Glenelg River

38-12

Glenelg River

38-13

Glenelg River

38-44

Wando River

X X

X X X

Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area 36-22

Mt Emu Creek

36-23

Trawalla Creek

X X Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area

36-17

Mt Emu Creek

X Wannon Waterway Management Area

38-22

Wannon River

38-23

Wannon River

38-24

Wannon River

38-25

Wannon River

38-26

Wannon River

38-28

Wannon River

38-30

Miakite Creek

38-35

Grange Burn Creek

38-37

Grange Burn Creek

38-40

Dwyer Creek

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. (CONTINUED) Table B. Priority estuaries and their links to the regional goals

Reach

Name

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Coastal Management Area 36-201

Hopkins River

36-238

Merri River

37-201

Wattle Hill Creek

37-203

Surry River

37-206

Fitzroy River

37-211

Lake Yambuk

37-216

Moyne River

38-201

Glenelg River

X X

Table C. Priority wetlands and their links to the regional goals

Reach

Name

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Coastal Waterway Management Area

246

20501

Long Swamp (East)

20502

Lake Bongbong

20561

Unnamed (20561)

20562

Bridgewater Lakes (North)

20563

unnamed (20563)

20565

Bridgewater Lakes (South)

20613

McFarlanes Swamp

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. (CONTINUED)

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Reach

Name

20614

Long Swamp (West)

21141

Tullich Swamp

25630

Tower Hill Lake (West)

25632

Wagon Bay

25638

Tower Hill Lake (East)

Condah

Lake Condah

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

X X

Lower Glenelg Waterway Management Area 20137

unnamed (20137)

20158

Kaladbro Swamp

20568

Grassy Flats Swamp

20911

McCallums Swamp

20965

Grannys Swamp

21063

unnamed (21063)

21088

unnamed (21088)

21103

unnamed (21103)

21131

unnamed (21131)

21136

unnamed (21136)

21166

unnamed (21166)

21167

unnamed (21167)

21180

Mill Swamp

21186

unnamed (21186)

21229

unnamed (21229)

21243

unnamed (21243)

21657

Kerr Swamp

21752

Church Swamp

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. (CONTINUED)

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Reach

Name

21852

Blackjack Swamp

22935

unnamed (22935)

22937

Nowackis Swamp

22953

unnamed (22953)

22957

unnamed (22957)

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Upper Glenelg Waterway Management Area 22985

Smokey Swamp

22994

unnamed (22994)

23000

Sampey Swamp

23003

unnamed (23003)

23078

Beniagh Swamp

27624

Victoria Lagoon

27669

Moora Moora Reservoir

27675

Rocklands Reservoir

X Upper Hopkins Waterway Management Area

248

31808

Lake Muirhead

31816

Mount William Swamp

Cockajemmy

Gooseneck

Gooseneck Swamp

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 12. (CONTINUED)

Reach

Name

Maintain Heritage River values in the Glenelg River

Restore hydrological and ecological values to high value drained wetlands and wetland systems

Protect or improve threatened fish populations in the Glenelg Hopkins region

Maintain or improve significant waterway dependent species and communities

Maintain or improve high value recreation fishing through habitat protection

Volcanic Plain Waterway Management Area 29078

Lake Towanway

29086

unnamed (29086)

29106

unnamed (29106)

32200

Lake Elingamite

32240

Lake Bookar

Nerrin Nerrin Nerrin Nerrin

X X

Wannon Waterway Management Area 26609

Bryan Swamp

26740

Lake Kennedy

26766

Lake Linlithgow

26815

unnamed (26815)

21154

unnamed (21154)

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 13. REGIONAL CONDITION TARGETS AND THEIR RELEVANT WATERWAY ASSETS

250

RCT REFERENCE

RCT

ASSETS CONTRIBUTING TO THE RCT

All extant populations of the Corangamite water skink are maintained in systems of reserves or areas managed specifically for 36-17 their conservation, and are able to be maintained in the longer-term

By 2033, improve the condition of estuaries across the region

36-201, 36-238, 37-201, 37-203, 37206, 37-211, 37-216 and 38-201

Guarantee that the brown toadlet survives and prospers in the wild, and maintains its potential to evolve

38-13

Maintain access to Glenelg heritage river corridor for canoeing and kayaking

38-201

Maintain the estuarine vegetation condition in excellent condition

38-201

Maintain the recreational fishing value of assets listed as popular 36-201, 36-38, 37-03, 37-04, 37-11, fisheries in a Regional Fishery Management Plan or as a 'best fishing 37-16, 38-07 and 38-201 water’ in A Guide to Angling Inland Waters of Victoria

Protect all known populations of variegated pygmy perch and take immediate action to ensure that suitable habitat is appropriately management in at least three locations

38-03, 38-04, 38-05, 38-06, 38-07, 3808, 38-09, 38-15, 38-16, 38-20, 38-21, 38-22, 38-23, 38-24, 38-26, 38-30, 3835, 38-37, and 38-44

Protect the Victorian brolga populations by ensuring that they can breed successfully to maintain and increase population sizes, and ﬂock at consistently used sites without disturbance

20965, 21063, 21154, 21166, 21180, 21186, 21752, 22937, 22985, 23078, 26609, 26740, 26766, 27624, 31808, and 31816

Riparian vegetation condition is maintained in excellent condition

37-05, 38-12, 38-28

Secure extant populations of growling grass frog, particularly those occurring in known breeding habitats, and improve their viability through increases in size and/or area of occurrence.

20502, 21141, 22935, 25630, 25632, 25638, 26609, 27669, 27675, 36-22, 36-23, 37-07, 38-11, 38-25, 38-40

The riparian vegetation of the Glenelg River (38-2) remains in excellent condition

38-02

The wetland vegetation condition is increased from good to excellent at sites supporting the ancient greenling

20614

To ensure that salt-lake tussock-grass can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss

26766

To ensure that swamp everlasting can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss

20568

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 13. (CONTINUED)

RCT REFERENCE

RCT

ASSETS CONTRIBUTING TO THE RCT

To ensure that swamp greenhood can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss

20614

To ensure that the late helmet-orchid can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss

20501

To ensure that the proud diuris can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild. To secure populations or habitat from potentially incompatible land use or catastrophic loss

25630

To ensure that Callistemon wimmerensis can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild

38-08, 38-09, 38-10, and 38-11

To ensure that identified drought refuges within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria

20501, 20614, 25630, 25632, 25638, 26766, 26815, 31808, 31816, 32240 and 37-211

To ensure that listed important bird habitats within the Glenelg Hopkins region continue to meet the listing criteria

20501, 20502, 20613, 32240 and 37-211

To ensure that the blue-billed duck can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild

20158, 20614, 21166, 21180, 21752, 22935, 23078, 25630, 25638, 26609, 26740, 26766, 27675, 31808, 31816, 32200 and 32240

To guarantee that the Glenelg spiny crayﬁsh can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the wild

37-09, 38-02, 38-03, 38-04, 38-06, 38-11, 38-13, 38-14, 38-26, 38-28 and 38-35

To guarantee that the river blackfish (upper Wannon form) can survive, ﬂourish and retain its potential for evolutionary development in the Wannon River

38-22, 38-23 and 38-24

To maintain the existing population and to rehabilitate former breeding sites

37-07, 37-203, 37-206, 37-211, 37201, 20614, 21141, 21180, 21657, 21752, 22937, 22985, 25630, 25632, 25638, 26609 and 27624

To maintain the wetland vegetation condition in excellent condition

20137, 20911, 20965, 21063, 21088, 21103, 21131, 21136, 21154, 21167, 21186, 21229, 21243, 21852, 22953, 22957, 22994, 23000, 23003, Condah, Gooseneck and Nerrin Nerrin

WATERWAY STRATEGY 2014-2022 I

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APPENDICES

APPENDIX 13. (CONTINUED)

252

RCT REFERENCE

RCT

ASSETS CONTRIBUTING TO THE RCT

To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of dwarf galaxias in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining the in the long-term

38-23

To minimise the probability of extinction and ensure long-term survival of Yarra pygmy perch in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining the in the long-term

36-13, 38-23 and 38-24

To minimise the probability of extinction of the Australian grayling in the wild and to increase the probability of important populations becoming self-sustaining in the long-term

36-13

To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by freckled duck

25630, 25632, 26740, 26766, 27675, 31808, 31816 and 32240

Maintain the recreational values of Lake Yambuk

37-211

To protect high value wetlands known to be utilised by musk duck

29086

By 2033, improve the condition of wetlands and maintain the diversity of wetland types

20614, 25630, 25632, 25638, 26609, 29078, 29086 and 29106

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CONTENTS CONTENTS

ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

CONTENTS CONTENTS

77 ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

CHAIR’S CHAIR’S FOREWORD FOREWORD

ABOUT ABOUT THE THE STRATEGY STRATEGY

4.14.1Regional Regional work work program program 2014-2022 2014-2022

7272

4.24.2Coastal Coastal Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area

7373

2 2 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Wetland Wetland status status report, report, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2006. 2006.

4.34.3Lower Lower Glenelg Glenelg Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 105 105

1 1PART PART AA - REGIONAL - REGIONAL OVERVIEW OVERVIEW AND AND STRATEGIC STRATEGIC CONTEXT CONTEXT

4.44.4Upper Upper Glenelg Glenelg Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 132 132

1.11.1Regional Regional overview overview

1111

4.54.5Upper Upper Hopkins Hopkins Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 149 149

1.21.2Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins waterways waterways

1212

4.64.6Volcanic Volcanic Plain Plain Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area 159 159

1.31.3Community Community participation participation

1818

4.74.7Wannon Wannon Waterway Waterway Management Management Area Area

1.41.4Indigenous Indigenous people’s people’s knowledge knowledge and and involvement involvement

2020

1.51.5Strategic Strategic and and legislative legislative context context

2222

1.61.6Review Review ofof previous previous river river health health strategy strategy and and addendum addendum

2 2PART PART BB - MANAGEMENT - MANAGEMENT RESPONSES RESPONSES TO TO REGION-WIDE REGION-WIDE THREATS THREATS

Front cover: Dunkeld Arboretum, James Pevitt. Front cover: Dunkeld Arboretum, James Pevitt.

6969

4 4PART PART DD - REGIONAL - REGIONAL WORK WORK PROGRAM PROGRAM

2424

3131

2.12.1Pest Pest plants plants and and animals animals

3434

2.22.2Water Water management management

3737

2.32.3Climate Climate change change

4242

2.42.4Extreme Extreme events events

4343

2.52.5Estuary Estuary management management

4444

2.62.6Water Water quality quality

4545

2.72.7Wetlands Wetlands

4646

2.82.8River River channel channel

4848

2.92.9Riparian Riparian land land

4949

2.10 2.10 Recreational Recreational use use ofof waterways waterways

5050

3 3PART PART CC - THE - THE APPROACH APPROACH USED USED ININ WATERWAY WATERWAY PRIORITISATION PRIORITISATION

5151

3.13.1Vision Vision

5353

3.23.2Goals Goals and and overarching overarching principles principles

5353

3.33.3Asset-based Asset-based approach approach

5555

3.43.4High High value value waterways waterways

5858

3.53.5Priority Priority waterways waterways

5959

3.63.6Program Program logic logic

6767

169 169

4.84.8Estimated Estimated eight-year eight-year work work program program budget budget 189 189 4.94.9Delivering Delivering the the strategy strategy

190 190

4.10 4.10 Monitoring Monitoring reporting reporting and and evaluation evaluation

197 197

5 5ACRONYMS ACRONYMS

200 200

6 6APPENDICES APPENDICES

201 201

7 7ENDNOTES ENDNOTES

253 253

5 5 Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA CMA Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins wetland wetland status status report, report, Glenelg Glenelg Hopkins Hopkins CMA, CMA, Hamilton, Hamilton, 2006. 2006.

2 2I IGLENELG GLENELG HOPKINS HOPKINS CATCHMENT CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY AUTHORITY

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2525IPCC, IPCC, 5th5th Assessment Assessment report report (AR5) (AR5) Summary Summary forfor policymakers, policymakers, 2013. 2013.

FIGURES FIGURES

WATERWAY WATERWAY STRATEGY STRATEGY 2014-2022 2014-2022I I253 253

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T: 03 5571 2526 F: 03 5571 2935 www.ghcma.vic.gov.au

G L E N E L G H O P K I N S WAT E R WAY S T R AT E G Y 2 0 1 4 - 2 0 2 2

79 French Street, Hamilton, Vic 3300

G l e n e l g H o p ki n s

WATERWAY STRATEGY 2014-2022

Development of this strategy has been supported by the Victorian Government - Department of Environment and Primary Industries

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