Wetlands Update

On Friday night 9th March, a gathering of around 50 Riverglades residents was briefed on the community's bid for Natural Heritage Trust (NHT) funds during 2001-2002. The group learned of strong support for the bid by Murray Bridge Service Clubs, Rural City Council, local schools, the University of Adelaide and Departments of Correctional Services and Family and Youth Services. Coordinator Jacqui Merckenschlager said notice was recently received that the Riverglades community has been awarded $50,000 from Banrock Station's Living Wetlands Fund. The money will be used to assist the group's objective of restoring the health of their wetlands.

Every glass of Banrock wine sold helps to fund another wetland or Landcare project, and our work as a wetland group over the years has now been rewarded, she said. A further $103,000 is being sought by Riverglades from Federal and State governments under their NHT scheme.

The community proposes to build control structures with water gates and fish screens at both ends of their wetlands in order to manipulate water levels at critical times and thereby reduce numbers of carp.

The Riverglades community is expected to match Banrock's cash committment with in-kind works. Those present heard how this will be achieved, with support from the listed organisations. In particular, a Wetlands Day of Learning will be held during early 2002, at which 200 to 300 people can discover what measures are being taken to restore the River Murray's wetlands, and ultimately improve the health of the river itself.

Waterwatch coordinator for the Lower Murray region Emily Marchant explained the role of Waterwatch in monitoring water quality and animal life. Murray Bridge High School teacher Liz Hodge gave details of the work her Year 11 students are undertaking at Riverglades as part of these studies.

A Riverglades resident at the meeting agreed to become the link-person between the school and the wetland community. Rotary Club of Murray Bridge will also be involved in monitoring birds at Riverglades, assisted by Birds Australia and local ornithologist

Peter Koch.

Wetlands Update

NEWS