Maroondah has six major waterways and several lakes, all providing aesthetic and recreational amenity. In the past, some have suffered through failure to recognise these values. A study funded by Council is now underway to provide a broad strategy for rehabilitating and enhancing the streams and lakes.
“The aim is to enhance their habitat, open space and recreational and leisure uses,” said Vivienne Fraser, Environmental Planner. “Waterways tend to have conflicting uses. We need to find the balance between these and focus on certain areas for certain things.
“Last year, we conducted a Drains to the Bay program to heighten people’s awareness of the effect of litter and other pollutants on the total environment. We included some schools and a Rotary Club in this program to raise general community awareness of the fact that street drains lead to creeks, local waterways and eventually the ocean.”
Vivienne said the first step will be to improve recognition of the value of waterways. At the moment, she says they are sometimes neglected or under utilised because of uncertainty over management responsibilities. The next step is to address the issue of water quality.
Among the programs under consideration are an ‘Adopt a Creek’ program for local schools and ‘Streamwatch’, where a coordinator works with local schools to show students how to monitor and assess water quality and encourages them to become involved with the waterways.
“There is a responsibility to recognise that local waterways are part of a greater catchment,” Vivienne Fraser said. “This means Council and the community must work together to rebuild our waterways cutting down the rubbish that flows in and through them.”
To further the work, Maroondah has submitted a joint application with the Shire of Yarra Ranges and Melbourne Water for funding from the Natural Heritage Trust to enhance the Brushy Creek wildlife corridor in a three year program.
Likewise, a major improvement scheme for Ringwood Lake is currently underway. After removing all fauna, Council has drained the lake, which was harbouring contaminants following sustained drought conditions. This aims to improve water quality and eradicate the chances of botulism and blue green algae contamination.
“Maroondah City Council is determined to maintain Ringwood Lake as a viable long term environmental and community asset,” said Steve Goble, Manager Parks.
For further information contact Vivienne Fraser, telephone (03) 9871 0369.
