Long-term project to protect river quality

Barwon Water will work with private landholders to protect water quality and improve the environmental health of the Barham River catchment.

The long-term initiative, called ‘Building a Resilient Barham’, seeks to implement waterway protection works that can deliver multiple environmental and community benefits.

Barwon Water is offering financial assistance and expert guidance in planning, implementing and maintaining waterway protection works tailored to properties within the catchment.

Potential initiatives and works include revegetation with local native species; fencing to restrict stock access to waterways; removal of weeds; and management of domestic septic wastewater systems.

Surrounding landholders are encouraged to work with Barwon Water to identify mutually beneficial waterway protection works appropriate for their properties.

The collaborative model was successfully used to complete the East Barwon Willow Removal and Restoration project, near Forrest.

Barwon Water worked with local landowners and the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority to support water security and waterway health along a four-kilometre stretch of the river.

General Manager Planning, Delivery and Environment Seamus Butcher said effective catchment management and water quality protection was a critical step in being able to continue providing high quality drinking water.

“As it is currently the only source of drinking water we provide to the towns of Apollo Bay, Marengo and Skenes Creek, it’s vital that we protect and enhance the long-term health of the Barham River,” Mr Butcher said.

“This project recognises the value that can be created by working in partnership with the community and finding sustainable measures that will have wide-ranging benefits.”

Expected outcomes include buffering pollutants from entering waterways, reducing erosion, providing habitat and food sources for wildlife, and supporting the productivity of farmland.

Minimising the contamination of waterways (rivers, creeks and tributaries) will also safeguard the quality of drinking water provided in Apollo Bay, Marengo and Skenes Creek.

At its Apollo Bay Water Treatment Plant, Barwon Water produces safe drinking water that complies with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

However, protecting and improving the quality of water in the river and its major tributaries will help reduce the need for any additional intervention and treatment processes at the plant in the future.

Barwon Water is keen to discuss potential options to improve river health and water quality with all property owners in the Barham River Catchment.

To find out more about the project or to register your interest, visit www.yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/building-resilient-barham or email projects@barwonwater.vic.gov.au