Municipality
Central Coast
Funding Status
Fully Supported
Achievement Plans
The project aims to restore and revitalise the dam by removing invasive species, such as blackberry, to create space for planting a diverse mix of native vegetation. Approximately () plants will be used to restore this dam . Approximately 420 metres of protective fencing will be installed to establish a dedicated buffer zone around the dam, with a gated access point planned for convenient entry across the dam wall. Throughout the project, field days will be organised to showcase enhancements and share practical learnings with the community. The team will undertake regular monitoring and thorough documentation, ensuring continuous improvement and transparent reporting of the dam enhancement's impacts.
Methods
Initial site preparation: The first stage involves applying drone-based spraying to target invasive weeds, such as blackberry, particularly in areas where access is challenging. This innovative approach leverages current expert advice in precision weed management for large or inaccessible sites.On-ground restoration works: Once weed control is underway, the project team will organise and supervise in-kind efforts to clear the sprayed zones, preparing the site for planting and fencing. This phase will be completed by West Pine Ag members and volunteers, supported by technical input from Landcare workshop resources and proven revegetation methods.Fencing installation: To ensure durability and compliance with landcare standards, the construction of approximately 420 metres of exclusion fencing, including a gated access point, will be carried out by qualified contractors with relevant experience.Native vegetation establishment: Volunteers, guided by best-practice restoration advice and Landcare technical guidelines, will plant a mix of locally native grasses, shrubs, and trees to enhance the riparian buffer zone and improve habitat diversity.Ongoing monitoring and education: Project progress will be regularly monitored and documented, with field days organised to share results, techniques, and lessons learned with neighbours and the wider community.
Natural Values
Riparian habitat and biodiversity: The project will enhance the area by planting locally native species (grasses, shrubs, trees) along riparian buffer zones, creating vital habitat for wildlife and boosting native species diversity.Water quality and aquatic ecosystem health: By installing exclusion fencing and revegetating, the project seeks to filter farm runoff, stabilise banks, and reduce sediment and nutrient flows into the dam, improving the overall water quality and supporting aquatic life.Drought resilience and farm water supply reliability: Enhanced dam management will increase water retention, reduce evaporation, and improve the reliability of water resources, making farm water supplies more resilient to droughts.Catchment-scale environmental benefits: Located in the Blythe/Leven Catchment, the project addresses broader waterway health and supports linkages between ecosystem restoration efforts on multiple properties in the region.Control of invasive species: Targeted removal of blackberry and other weeds restores native plant communities, improving natural habitat and accessibility for ongoing management.
Outcomes
Improved drought resilience through enhanced water storage capacity, reduced evaporation, and reliable water quality.Increased biodiversity and greater ecological connectivity Improved catchment water health, and reduced methane emissions associated with degraded dams.A replicable community case study demonstrating the environmental, agricultural, and collaborative benefits of farm dam enhancement.
Amount
More than $30k
