A new four-year program aimed at improving the water quality and riverside vegetation of the Moorabool River has begun this week.
The Moorabool Catchment Restoration Program (MCRP) is a collaborative effort between Barwon Water, the Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group, private landholders and community members intended to ensure a sustainable future for the region.
Commencing on June 30 this year and scheduled for completion in June 2028, the MCRP’s key areas of delivery include stock exclusion fencing, weed control, pest animal management and revegetation.
In addition to improving water quality and riparian vegetation health, the program also seeks to increase community awareness of sustainable land management practices.
The project will be funded by Barwon Water, which has committed $353,600 to the initiative.
Barwon Water’s general manager of planning, delivery and environment Seamus Butcher said the initiative was important for protecting and improving water quality in the Moorabool River.
“Barwon Water understands that managing and protecting the catchments in our region is essential to maintaining high quality, safe drinking water for our community,” he said.
“We are pleased to see Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group’s commitment to protecting the local environment and public health within the Moorabool River catchment through this program, which is set to benefit the local environment and community.”
Jackson Cass, Landcare coordinator of the Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group, thanked Barwon Water for their funding commitment.
“We’re very excited to launch the Moorabool Catchment Restoration Program, an initiative aimed at improving water quality and waterway vegetation,” Mr Cass said.
“By collaborating with Barwon Water, private landholders, and community stakeholders, we aim to create a sustainable future for the Moorabool River catchment.”
Mr Cass highlighted the role of the local Landcare community in making the project possible.
“This project would not be possible without the support of our Landcare community. All works will be completed on private land, giving us access to some amazing sites,” he said.
“Without their support, these waterway improvements would not be possible.”
