The Etiwanda Wetlands, situated north of Seventh Street in Mildura has a reputation for being a tranquil spot for bushwalking, cycling and bird watching.
The 16 hectare site features a series of ponds and an abundance of native plants, providing the perfect habitat for birds and wildlife.
A network of walking trails, complete with bridges and boardwalks winds its way throughout the wetlands and a bird hide sits among shrubs on the bank of a pond.
But the Etiwanda Wetlands are far more than a peaceful spot where you can go to appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature.
Established in 2006, the Wetlands work as a natural filtration system to improve the quality of water that flows into the Murray River, particularly after major rain events.
Up to two thirds of Mildura’s urban stormwater flows through to the Etiwanda Wetlands via the Etiwanda and San Mateo drains.
A gross pollutant trap at the inlet zone of the wetlands filters out large debris and pollutants before the water enters a deep pond where large particles settle to the bottom.
Submerged plants throughout the wetlands also help to remove pollutants and nutrients from the water.
After heavy rains chemicals such as grease and oil from roads as well as phosphates from fertilizers and other toxins can be washed into stormwater drains.
Left untreated, this can affect aquatic life and provide nutrients for weeds and algae to take hold.
An innovative technique to further filter the water has seen a series of floating island reed beds made from recycled material added to the wetlands.
Not only do these planted islands help improve the quality of water before it flows into the Murray River, they also act as habitat for birds, fish and water invertebrates and further enhance the visual appeal of the entire site.
