The health of Victoria's water environment is constantly being monitored by a number of organisations to check for signs of stress and quality. Over the last few weeks the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and Goulburn-Murray Water have received several community reports indicating changes to the water in Gunbower Creek.

North Central CMA's Gunbower Forest Project Officer Heidi Magner said that the recent reports had shown a slight decline in the aesthetics of the water." The reports we've received have been from people noticing a change in the color and smell of the water", said Heidi.

"The main reason behind this is that there is less water being allocated and diverted for irrigation use, however water quality can also change due to rainfall, high temperatures and increased nutrient loads."

"We're monitoring the Gunbower Creek to ensure water quality remains suitable for the plants and animals that rely on it, as well as for consumptive use such as stock and domestic purposes".

Heidi added that together with Goulburn-Murray Water, the North Central CMA's monitoring of the creek is regularly undertaken to assess various parameters such as algal blooms, pH, salinity, and dissolved oxygen.

"Despite the recently recorded changes to the aesthetics of the water, the current results show that parameters remain within acceptable ecological thresholds," said Heidi.

North Central CMA and Goulburn-Murray Water will be continuing to monitor the health of the creek for its urban, rural and industry users throughout the season. However, community members with an interest in monitoring water quality are invited to get involved by becoming a Waterwatch monitor. 

"We're fortunate to already have some keen landholders and community groups regularly conducting water quality monitoring for us, which certainly helps our organisations track quality issues as they arise," said Heidi.

The Waterwatch program works with volunteers across the region to monitor the health of the region's waterways. Waterwatch participants include community groups such as Landcare, individuals and schools with a commitment to learning about and improving water quality and river health in North Central Victoria.

Waterwatch Facilitator, Melanie Barrot said, "The major aim of Waterwatch is to increase people's understanding of freshwater environments and gain an appreciation of the issues our waterways face."

Community volunteers are provided with free water quality monitoring training and equipment. If you would like more information on the Waterwatch program please contact Melanie Barrot on 0427 887 254 or email melanie.barrot@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