A FISH habitat project to control willow trees along 45 kilometres of the Upper Murrumbidgee River is set to commence following an announcement of a grant of $10,400 by NSW Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson and Member for Monaro John Barilaro.
Ms Hodgkinson said the innovative Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach Community Willow Control Project will involve community members and river interest groups who will paddle the river to remove willow trees to enhance fish habitat.
“This is a terrific local project which will improve the Upper Murrumbidgee River provide better access for fish, improve fish habitat and ultimately produce more fish,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
“Willow infestation is a major issue for river health and native fish habitat – it can destroy native plants and wildlife habitats, alter stream flows, cause flooding by blocking the natural water course and reduce water quality.
“This project is one of 30 habitat action projects which the NSW Government has provided funding of $570,000 for this month from the Recreational Fishing Trusts.
“These projects are a terrific example of how monies raised from the NSW Recreational Fishing Fee are being invested back into initiatives which improve recreational fishing.”
Mr Barilaro said the Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach Community Willow Control Project is being led by local community organisation, Kosciuszko 2 Coast.
“This great project will build on the success of the Upper Murrumbidgee Demonstration Reach, an initiative which demonstrates the cumulative effects of river management interventions on a 100km stretch of the Upper Murrumbidgee,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This project will result in a healthier, more resilient and sustainable river that is appreciated and enjoyed by all communities of the national capital region.
“This is another great example of how anglers’ money is being invested back into recreational fishing, supporting the improvement of recreational fish populations.”
A full list of successful projects can be found at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/hag
