Over the next few years, the water plants will grow to create a beautiful landscape.
13 June 2024
Sections of Tuggeranong Creek in Calwell have been re-naturalised with native plants and grasses replacing concrete. The project will help improve habitat and the quality of water flowing into Lake Tuggeranong.
Concrete sections of the creek have been replaced with naturalised creek beds featuring pools and riffles. Thousands of water plants have been planted at the site.
The new water plants will:
- trap sediments
- absorb nutrients and pollution
- reduce the risk of blue-green algal blooms.
The plants will also provide important habitat for native wildlife such as water bugs, yabbies and water birds. The plants will grow over the next few years to create a beautiful landscape.
The creek channel has been widened to slow the water down. This will allow it to filter into the soil and support the surrounding landscape while still protecting the surrounding suburbs from flooding.
Two viewing platforms will provide a space for the community to enjoy the area.
This project is one of several that are trialling improvements in stormwater quality and waterway healthy. These include:
- new wetland designs including floating wetlands
- reconnecting street drains and pipes to green space
- stormwater recycling to irrigate sports fields
- raingardens that treat runoff before it enters big drains.
The Healthy Waterways program is helping to deliver on the goals of the ACT Water Strategy 2014-44. The government is currently seeking feedback from the community on changes to the strategy which aim to find new and adaptable ways to care for our waterways in the ACT.
More information about the Healthy Waterways Program is available on the ACT Environment website.
Have your say on the changes to the ACT Water Strategy 2014-44 on the YourSay website.
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