Planting for Habitat & River Health
Planting for Habitat & River Health
Collaboration improving river health and native fish and fauna habitat in Upper Horton
Collaborations -
LP023-010
The issue
The Horton River is home to Platypus and many native fish species including Silver and Golden Perch, Murray Cod and Catfish and is part of the Murray Darling Basin. It is in a relatively natural state, and has been identified as having very high habitat value for native fish species, however eroding riverbanks and fragile aquatic vegetation, as well as loss of trees during the recent drought, make restoration of the area a priority.
The solution
Northern Slopes Landcare partnered with OzFish Unlimited, Gwydir Shire Council, North West LLS and the Upper Horton Sports Club to plant native plants along the river. Species selection included plants such as Lomandra to filter and clean run off before it reaches the river, improving river health for native fish species and platypus; Casuarinas to assist in stabilisation of the riverbanks and prevent further erosion; Callistemons, Acacia, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca and other flowering species which will improve habitat for native birds, and in particular the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater.
Interpretive signage will also be installed to educate both the community and visitors to the site about how to maintain and increase river health and native habitat
The impact
Two hundred native trees were planted, with plans already underway for "phase 2" of the program, which will involve the planting of further habitat shrubs and small trees. Plants were planted using biodegradable guards which will not pose a risk to river health in the event of a flood. Plants will be monitored and watered as required.
It was heartwarming to see several species of birds already checking out the new plants before we were even finished planting!
Key facts
- Lomandra are invaluable as a riparian species - they not only stabilise eroded riverbanks and gullies, but also play a part in filtering runoff before it feeds into our rivers
- Planting flowering native shrubs and mid-storey plants such as Acacias and Callistemons along waterways provides feed and shelter for many native fauna species, including the critically endangered Regent Honeyeater