PROTECTING WETLANDS
PROTECTING WETLANDS
Wetlands provide critical habitat for many species , including native fish and migratory birds . This year we continued to focus efforts on rehabilitating wetlands by removing weeds , improving fish migration , and working with landholders to reduce runoff and protect riparian habitat .
FARMERS CONNECT WITH LOCAL WETLANDS
This year we wrapped up a project supporting Burdekin cane growers to minimise their impacts on local wetlands . They received on-farm water monitoring to help them determine the success of their efforts to reduce runoff . They also learned that wetlands provide critical habitat and are an important link between farms and the Great Barrier Reef .
Through the project , funded by the Queensland Government Reef Water Quality Program , we developed a model for engaging with cane farmers to increase their sense of stewardship over their local wetlands .
Cane grower Steve Pilla operates a farm adjacent to Horseshoe Lagoon . He said :
“ It makes a huge difference to educate people on how our operation can affect what we don ’ t see . We don ’ t want to affect the wetland , because we understand how vital it is to the environment .”
Burdekin grower , Steve Pilla
Steve Pilla ( Director , Burdekin Canegrowers )
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