7th August 2023 | On a crisp winter's day we gathered in a tin shed at Ripple Farm Landscape Healing Hub to explore wetland restoration, highlighting the essential role wetlands play in our ecosystems and communities. 

The event featured a stellar lineup of speakers from various organisations committed to the health and restoration of Tasmania's wetlands:

• Nature Glenelg Trust: Bec Sheldon, Senior Wetland Ecologist, shared insights on Nature Glenelg Trust's restoration of over 50 wetlands across Australia. She highlighted the importance of understanding the site’s history, the people involved, interpreting the landscape, defining trends of change, articulating a vision, and implementing and monitoring restoration plans. This comprehensive strategy has shown remarkable success, with wetland species returning to restored sites within a few years.

• Landcare Tasmania: Anna Minchin and Luke Cooper provided valuable information on enhancing farm dams and planting wetland species. Anna highlighted the role of farm dams in supporting biodiversity and improving water quality, which can lead to enhanced farm productivity. Luke offered practical advice on planting wetland plants, emphasizing the need for species compatibility and protection from birds

• Water Resources Group at NRE: Henry Maxwell and Bryce Graham discussed the nuances of dam construction and water management. They emphasized that many structures, not traditionally considered dams, such as levees or channels, do require permits. 

• Lauderdale Coastcare: Susanne Hovington presented on the Roscommon Artificial Wetland. Constructed over 20 years ago to filter stormwater and mitigate flooding, this wetland has evolved into a thriving ecosystem. The success of the project underscores the importance of community involvement and accessible public spaces for appreciating and experiencing natural restoration efforts.

Key Takeaways:

Impact of Artificial Drainage: Many wetlands across Tasmania and Australia have dried out due to artificial drainage. Restoring these wetlands typically involves blocking this drainage, but understanding the historical context of drainage is essential for effectively addressing the challenges faced by these landscapes.

Dams as Wetland Habitat: Farm dams can be transformed into valuable wetland habitats. It is important to consider the types of permits and regulations applicable to wetland restoration and dam management. Most dams require permits, except those that are off-stream, below ground level, and have a capacity of less than 1 megalitre. 

Planting Wetland Species: By planting wetland species, dams can boost biodiversity and provide crucial habitat for animals affected by the loss of natural wetlands.

Involving Neighbours and the Wider Community: Involving neighbours and the wider community is key to successful restoration efforts. Cooperation is crucial, as drainage systems can cross property lines, and inundated areas may also span across council borders. Neighbours often become interested and involved once they see the benefits of restored wetlands.

A special thanks to Emma Goyne from Clarence Council for attending, and to our speakers from the Nature Glenelg Trust, Water Resources Group at NRE and Lauderdale Coastcare.  

This workshop is part of Landcare Tasmania's Landscape Restoration and Community Outreach programs and is funded by the Tasmanian State Government.