World Wetlands Day will be celebrated on Tuesday 2 February, with this year’s theme being Wetlands, Biodiversity and Climate Change.

The North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has recently been assessing the condition of wetlands across North Central Victoria through the state-wide Index of Wetland Condition (IWC), developed by the Department of Sustainability and Environment to monitor aspects of wetland health such as their soil, water, plants, connectivity to natural waterways and the impacts of adjacent land use.  

North Central CMA’s Ben Goonan is involved in this year’s assessments and explains that the method used for testing is specifically designed for naturally-occurring wetlands.

“Of approximately 750 wetland areas selected for this year’s assessment, around 70 are from the North Central CMA region.  The sites being tested in our region were chosen for their environmental, cultural and scientific values,” said Mr Goonan.

“Many wetland habitats have undergone significant change impacting their size, flooding patterns, habitat values and vegetation. 

“Despite this, many wetlands continue to provide essential services to communities and provide an important refuge for wildlife and vegetation, “said Mr Goonan.

Mr Goonan continued, “Understanding the value of wetlands and their condition is crucial for current management, and monitoring changes is essential for maintaining the wetlands for the future”.

Other important information collected whilst assessing the wetlands includes pest plant and animal invasions, identification of cultural heritage sites, evidence of endangered species and threatened vegetation communities.

Mr Goonan is confident that the data collected will help Catchment Management Authorities better target government programs which can assist land managers with wetland management.

North Central CMA also coordinates the management of several other wetland projects, two of which target internationally recognised Ramsar sites; Gunbower Forest and the Kerang Wetlands.

For further information contact the North Central CMA on (03) 5448 7124 or visit the website at www.nccma.vic.gov.au.
 

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au