Kerang Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan

Department of Sustainability and Environment This Strategic Management Plan was developed by Parks on behalf of the Department of Sustainability and Environment with input from key stakeholders.

This report was prepared with financial support from the National Wetlands Program, under the Natural Heritage Trust.

© The State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2004

This publication is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, no part may be reproduced, copied, transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical or graphic) without the prior written permission of the State of Victoria, Department of Sustainability and Environment. All requests and enquires should be directed to the Copyright Officer, Library Information Services, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 5/250 Victoria Parade, East , Victoria 3002.

Disclaimers This publication may be of assistance to you and every effort has been made to ensure that the information in the report is accurate. The Department of Sustainability and Environment does not guarantee that the report is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence, which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. The views and opinions expressed in this document are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Commonwealth Government of , the Federal Minister for the Environment and Heritage, or the Department of the Environment and Heritage. This report is prepared without prejudice to any negotiated or litigated outcome of any Native Title Determination Applications covering land or waters within the plan’s area. It is acknowledged that any future outcomes of Native Title Determination Applications may necessitate amendment of this report; and the implementation of this plan may require further notifications under the procedures in Division 3 Part 2 of the Native Title Act 1993 (Cwlth). The plan is also prepared without prejudice to any future negotiated outcomes between the Government/s and Victorian Aboriginal communities. It is acknowledged that such negotiated outcomes may necessitate amendment of this plan.

Published in March 2004 by the Department of Sustainability and Environment Level 14, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, Victoria.

Copies of this document are available at www.dse.vic.gov.au

National Library of Australia

Cataloguing-in-Publication entry

Victoria. Department of Sustainability and Environment. Wetlands Ramsar Site: Strategic Management Plan

Bibliography.

ISBN 1 74106 824 X

Cover: Kerang Wetlands (Photographs: Parks Victoria collection)

Printed on recycled paper.

Contents

GLOSSARY III

1 INTRODUCTION 1

1.1 STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT 1 1.2 PURPOSE OF THE STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN 1 1.3 CONSULTATIVE FRAMEWORK 2

2 RAMSAR SITE DESCRIPTION 3

2.1 LOCATION 3 2.2 TYPE 3 2.3 CRITERIA MET FOR RAMSAR LISTING 3 2.4 LAND TENURE AND MANAGEMENT 3 2.5 ADJACENT LAND USE 5 2.6 CATCHMENT SETTING 5 2.7 LOCAL GOVERNMENT 6

3 POLICY FRAMEWORK 9

3.1 STRATEGIES 9 3.2 MUNICIPAL STRATEGIC STATEMENTS, ZONING AND OVERLAYS 11

4 VALUES 12

4.1 WETLAND REPRESENTATIVENESS 12 4.2 FLORA AND FAUNA 12 4.3 WATERBIRDS 13 4.4 NATURAL FUNCTION 13 4.5 ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE 14 4.6 SCENIC 14 4.7 ECONOMIC 14 4.8 EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION 14 4.9 RECREATION AND TOURISM 14 4.10 SCIENTIFIC 15 4.11 CONDITION 15

5 MANAGEMENT OF RISKS 16

5.1 ALTERED WATER REGIMES 16 5.2 SALINITY 18 5.3 POLLUTION 20 5.4 PEST PLANTS AND ANIMALS 20 5.5 RESOURCE UTILISATION 21 5.6 RECREATION 22 5.7 EROSION 23 5.8 DREDGING 23 5.9 FIRE 23 5.10 LAND MANAGEMENT 23 5.11 LEVEL OF RISK TO RAMSAR VALUES 23

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE I

6 SITE MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES 25

REFERENCES 31

APPENDIX 1 LIST OF CONTRIBUTORS 33

APPENDIX 2 THREATENED STATUS OF FLORA 34

APPENDIX 3 THREATENED STATUS OF FAUNA 35

APPENDIX 4 JAMBA, CAMBA AND BONN SPECIES 38

APPENDIX 5 RESOURCE LIST FOR KERANG WETLANDS 39

APPENDIX 6 KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR INFORMATION SHEET 41

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE II

Glossary

BWE Bulk Water Entitlement

CAMBA China - Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

DCFL former Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands (now DSE)

DOI Department of Infrastructure

DPI Department of Primary Industries

DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment

DEH Commonwealth Department of the Environment and Heritage

EC Electrical Conductivity: 1 EC is equivalent to 0.6 mg/L of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)

ECC former Environment Conservation Council

GMW Goulburn-Murray Water

IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (World Conservation Union)

JAMBA Japan - Australia Migratory Bird Agreement

LCC former Land Conservation Council

MDBC Murray-Darling Basin Commission

ML Megalitre

NCCMA North Central Catchment Management Authority

NRE former Department of Natural Resources and Environment (now DSE and DPI)

PV Parks Victoria

SFMP Streamflow Management Plan

SMP Strategic Management Plan

TDS Total Dissolved Solids

TIS Torrumbarry Irrigation System

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE III

1 Introduction

The Strategic Management Plan for the Kerang 5. Manage resource utilisation on a sustainable Wetlands Ramsar site is an integral component of a basis. program to develop a comprehensive management 6. Protect and, where appropriate, enhance framework for Victoria’s Wetlands of International ecosystem processes, habitats and species. Importance (or ‘Ramsar sites’) listed under the 7. Encourage strong partnerships between Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971). The management agencies. primary goal of the management framework is to maintain the ecological character of Victoria’s 8. Promote community awareness and Ramsar sites through conservation and wise use. understanding and provide opportunities for involvement in management. 1.1 Strategic Directions Statement 9. Ensure recreational use is consistent with the protection of natural and cultural values. The Strategic Directions Statement establishes 10. Develop ongoing consistent programs to Management Objectives for Victoria’s Ramsar sites monitor ecological character. and Statewide Management Strategies to achieve these objectives (NRE 2002). The Strategic The Strategic Directions Statement also provides Management Plans for the individual Victorian background information on the suite of relevant Ramsar sites apply the Management Objectives and international conventions, as well as related Statewide Management Strategies, promoting a Commonwealth and State policy and legislation, range of specific management actions that will which directs and supports the management of maintain, and in some cases restore the ecological Ramsar sites. The Strategic Directions Statement character of the sites. Individual plans cover 10 of and Strategic Management Plans are therefore Victoria’s 11 Ramsar sites. Victoria’s eleventh intended to be read as complementary documents. Ramsar site, the Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands, was listed in 2001 and is covered by a separate 1.2 Purpose of the Strategic management plan. A diagram of the framework and Management Plan related documents is shown below in Figure 1.1. The primary purpose of the Strategic Management The Strategic Directions Statement provides the Plan (SMP) for the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site is overarching policy framework for managing Ramsar to facilitate conservation and wise use of the site so sites in Victoria. It establishes Management as to maintain, and where practical restore, the Objectives for Ramsar site management across the ecological values for which it is recognised as a State, which are then translated to the site-specific Ramsar wetland. This will be achieved by level by each of the Strategic Management Plans. implementing site-specific management strategies The Management Objectives outlined by the under each of the key objectives (derived from the Strategic Directions Statement are as follows: Strategic Directions Statement).

1. Increase the scientific understanding of wetland The SMP for the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site ecosystems and their management provides management agencies and stakeholders requirements. with an appropriate management framework and the 2. Maintain or seek to restore appropriate water necessary information to ensure that decisions regimes. regarding land use and development, and ongoing 3. Address adverse processes and activities. management are made with full regard for wetland values in environmental, social and economic terms. 4. Manage Ramsar sites within an integrated catchment management framework.

Figure 1.1 Framework for the strategic management of Victoria’s Ramsar sites

STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT FOR VICTORIA’S RAMSAR SITES

HATTAH- WESTERN BARMAH CORNER GUNBOWER KERANG PORT WESTERN KULKYNE DISTRICT FOREST INLET FOREST WETLANDS ALBACUTYA PHILLIPBAY PORT LAKES LAKES

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 1

The SMP has been structured in order to: 1.3 Consultative framework • provide a comprehensive site description; The SMP has been developed collaboratively through • examine the legislation, policy and any related a multi-disciplinary team comprised of Parks Victoria management instruments which direct or staff from regional and central offices. Throughout the otherwise influence management both within and process key local stakeholders have provided input adjacent to the site; (see Figure 1.2). • clarify the roles and responsibilities of The SMP is a public document that has been management agencies; formalised through a government approval process. As • identify the values for which the site is recognised such, the Kerang Wetlands SMP was subject to a as a Ramsar site; public comment phase commensurate with State • assess threats to these values through systematic Government consultative processes. All comments analysis of both current and potential risks; and received during the public consultation phase were considered in finalising the document. • give priority to Site Management Strategies that minimise and, where possible, eliminate identified The SMP is intended to operate over a six-year time risks to values. frame and will be reviewed every three years to coincide with national reporting requirements under the Convention on Wetlands.

Figure 1.2 Process for developing the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan

MULTI-DISCIPLIMARY PROJECT TEAM

KEY LOCAL LOCAL REFERENCE STAKEHOLDERS GROUP

PUBLIC COMMENT ON DRAFT DOCUMENT

KERANG WETLANDS STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 2

2 Ramsar Site Description

2.1 Location especially where located in a trans-border position; The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site is located approximately 300 km northwest of Melbourne. The 2(b) it is of special value for maintaining the wetlands are located on the western extremity of the genetic and ecological diversity of the Riverine Plain and are part of an extensive wetland flora and fauna of a region; system of over 100 wetlands that occurs within the 3(a) it regularly supports >20,000 waterbirds; Loddon-Murray Region (Figure 2.1). The Ramsar 3(b) it regularly supports substantial numbers site wetlands cover an area of approximately of individuals from particular groups of 9,419 ha and feature a variety of permanent and waterbirds; and temporary wetlands, including permanent freshwater 3(c) it regularly supports 1% of the individuals of lagoons, permanent open freshwater lakes, deep a population of one species or subspecies freshwater marshes, saline and hypersaline lakes. of waterbirds.

2.2 Wetland type The listing of the Kerang Wetlands was made on the basis of their values in 1982 in the context of the Within the Kerang Wetlands four inland wetland purposes for which the various wetlands are types and one human-made wetland type are managed. Their management purposes are in recognised under the classification system used by accordance with government accepted Land the Ramsar Convention (Ramsar Convention Conservation Council recommendations (LCC 1989; Bureau 1997). Several of the wetlands represent a LCC 1985). As most of the wetlands in the site were number of wetland types as shown in Table 2.1. not in their natural state at the time of listing, the challenge in managing the wetlands is to enhance In Victoria, a system has been used to classify their ecological functions and values while wetlands that is different to the Ramsar Convention sustainably managing their approved uses. classification. Wetlands are classified into eight categories (Corrick and Norman 1980). The Kerang 2.4 Land tenure and management Wetlands Ramsar site includes areas of six wetland types under this system: deep freshwater marsh, The Kerang Wetland Ramsar site is managed by permanent open freshwater, shallow freshwater Parks Victoria, Goulburn-Murray Water, the marsh, permanent saline, semi permanent saline Department of Sustainability and Environment, the and sewage pond (Table 2.2). and Lower Murray Water under the provisions of relevant legislation (Table 2.3). 2.3 Criteria met for Ramsar listing Eight wetlands within the Kerang Wetland Ramsar To be listed as Wetlands of International Importance, site, including First Marsh, Second Marsh, Third wetlands must meet one or more internationally Marsh, Little Lake Charm, Lake Cullen, Stevenson accepted criteria in relation to their zoology, botany, Swamp, Hird Swamp, Johnson Swamp and part of ecology, hydrology or limnology and importance to Cemetery Swamp are reserved under the Crown waterbirds. The Ramsar Convention updated the Land (Reserves) Act 1978 and are managed under criteria in 1999. The new criteria will be applied to the Wildlife Act 1975. Kerang Wetlands when the site Ramsar Information Sheet is next updated in 2005. The former Ramsar Other lakes reserved under the Crown Land criteria for which the Kerang Wetlands were listed in (Reserves) Act 1978 are utilised for a range of other 1982 are: purposes including water supply (Reedy Lakes, Little Lake Charm, Lake Charm, Racecourse Lake and 1(a) it is a particularly good representative of a Kangaroo Lake) and salinity disposal (Lake Kelly, natural or near-natural wetland Little Lake Kelly, Lake William and ). characteristic of one, or common to more These reserves are managed by Goulburn-Murray than one, biogeographical region; Water.

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Table 2.1 Ramsar wetland types present in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site1

Wetland Type

Freshwater Permanent Seasonal / Permanent Permanent Waste- tree- freshwater intermittent saline / freshwater water dominated lakes >8ha saline / brackish / marshes / treatment wetland brackish / alkaline pools areas2 alkaline lakes lakes Wetland and flats

Lake Tutchewop  Lake William  Lake Kelly  Little Lake Kelly  Kangaroo Lake  Racecourse Lake  Lake Charm  Little Lake Charm  Top (Third) Marsh    Middle (Second)    Marsh Bottom (First)    Marsh Lake Bael Bael    Lake Cullen  Stevenson   Swamp Third Lake   Middle Lake     Back Swamp  Town Swamp  Cemetery Swamp  Fosters Swamp  Johnson Swamp  Hird Swamp 

1 Classification is based on information from the DSE geospatial data layer WETLAND_1994. 2 Wastewater treatment areas include sewage farms, settlement ponds, oxidation basins etc.

2.5 Adjacent land use 2.6 Catchment setting

The area surrounding the Kerang Wetlands supports The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site is located in the a diverse range of agricultural industries including lower reaches of the Loddon and Avoca catchments irrigated grazing, horticulture, dairy farms, dryland in a regional groundwater discharge zone. grazing and cropping enterprises. The township of Groundwater levels in the catchment have increased Kerang is adjacent to the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar significantly over the past 100 years and salinisation site. processes have degraded many of the low-lying wetlands. The overall health of the wetland catchments and the management of irrigation also play an important role The wetlands also receive inflows from the in the ecological status of the wetlands. Torrumbarry Irrigation System. As well as salt, the

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 5

catchments contribute high nutrient and sediment by an abundance of natural lakes and swamps that levels (NCCMA 2002a). were filled at irregular intervals by floodwater from the Loddon, Avoca and Murray Rivers. The The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site is located at the agricultural and commercial development of the area junction of three major floodplains, associated with has altered the nature and extent of all these natural the Avoca, Loddon and Murray Rivers, and includes areas through grazing, clearing, altered water a large number of wetlands, swamps, lakes and regimes, induced salinity and competition from waterways (other than the Ramsar wetlands) that introduced species (KLAWG 1993). have high environmental values including habitat for bird species (KLAWG 1993). 2.7 Local Government

Prior to European settlement the area surrounding The Kerang Wetland Ramsar site is located within the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site was characterised the Shire of Gannawarra.

Table 2.2 Area (ha) of Victorian wetland types present in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site1

Wetland Type

Deep Permanent Shallow Permanent Semi- Sewage freshwater open freshwater saline2 permanent pond Wetland marsh freshwater2 marsh saline

Lake Tutchewop 752 Lake William 96 Lake Kelly and 192 Little Lake Kelly Kangaroo Lake 984 Racecourse Lake 235 Little Lake Charm 113 6 Lake Charm 520 Top (Third) Marsh 946 Middle (Second) 233 3 Marsh Bottom (First) 780 Marsh Lake Bael Bael 648 Lake Cullen 632 Stevenson 8 Swamp Third Lake 234 Middle Lake 196 Reedy Lake 196 Back Swamp 46 Town Swamp 80 Cemetery Swamp 89 Fosters Swamp 219 6 Johnson Swamp 411 Hird Swamp 344 1 Source: DSE geospatial data layer WETLAND_1994. 2 Wetlands are described as permanent if they retain water for longer than 12 months, however, they can experience periods of drying.

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Table 2.3 Land tenure and management

Wetland Land tenure Legal Status Management Agency Water source

The Marshes (Bottom, Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria Middle and Top Reserve - Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Marshes)* Reserve Lake Kelly and Little Salinity Disposal Crown Land DSE, Goulburn-Murray Barr Creek Lake Kelly Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978 Water Lake William Salinity Disposal Crown Land DSE, Goulburn-Murray Barr Creek Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978 Water Lake Tutchewop Salinity Disposal Crown Land Goulburn-Murray Water Barr Creek Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978 (on behalf of the Murray- Darling Basin Commission) Reedy Lakes Water Supply Reserve Crown Land DSE, Goulburn-Murray Torrumbarry and Wildlife Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978 Water Irrigation System Little Lake Charm Water Supply Reserve Freehold land owned Goulburn-Murray Water Torrumbarry by Goulburn-Murray Irrigation System Water Lake Charm Water Supply Reserve Crown Land Goulburn-Murray Water Torrumbarry (Reserves) Act 1978 Irrigation System Racecourse Lake Water Supply Reserve Crown Land Goulburn-Murray Water Torrumbarry (Reserves) Act 1978 Irrigation System Kangaroo Lake Water Supply Reserve Crown Land Goulburn-Murray Water Torrumbarry (Reserves) Act 1978 Irrigation System Lake Cullen Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria Torrumbarry Reserve – Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Irrigation System Reserve Hird Swamp Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria Torrumbarry Reserve – Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Irrigation System Reserve Johnson Swamp Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria Pyramid Creek / Reserve – Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Torrumbarry Reserve Irrigation System Stevenson Swamp Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria - Reserve – Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Reserve Fosters Swamp Sewerage Purposes Crown Land Lower Murray Water Tertiary treated Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978 wastewater Town Swamp Public land vested in Water Act 1989 Goulburn-Murray Water Water Authority Back Swamp Public land vested in Water Act 1989 Goulburn-Murray Water Loddon River Water Authority Cemetery Swamp Natural Features Crown Land Parks Victoria Loddon River Reserve – Wildlife (Reserves) Act 1978 Reserve Timber Reserve Forests Act 1958 DSE Municipal Purposes Crown Land Gannawarra Shire Reserve (Reserves) Act 1978

* Also known as First, Second and Third Marsh

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 7

Table 2.4 Lead management agencies and their key responsibilities

Agency Responsibility Local Responsibility agency

Department of Strategic direction for park and DSE (Kerang Advise on and/or manage the land Sustainability and reserve management; flora and fauna and ) component of Reedy Lakes, Little Environment (DSE) management and implementation of Lake Kelly, Lake Kelly and Lake the Ramsar Convention in Victoria; William. Provide policy advice on catchment and water management, and part-manage Cemetery forest management, coastal and port Swamp. Provide policy advice for management; leasing, licensing and management of all of the Kerang management of public land, strategic Wetlands Ramsar sites. Manage and statutory land use planning Flora and Fauna environmental including the administration of the water allocation, hunting and Victorian Planning Provisions. domestic stock grazing licenses. Department of Primary Provides strategic direction for Fisheries Manage recreational fishing for the Industries (DPI) fisheries management and research, Victoria Ramsar site in accordance with agricultural services and sustainable Fisheries Act 1995. development of Victoria's energy and mineral resources. Parks Victoria Manage parks and reserves. Parks Victoria Manage the land and water (Kerang and components of The Marshes and Bendigo) Lake Cullen, Stevenson, Hird, Johnson and Cemetery Swamps. Local Government / Regulate local development through Gannawarra Administer planning scheme. Part Shires planning schemes, on-ground works. Shire management of Cemetery Swamp. Manage urban drainage. Management of the infrastructure within Town and Back Swamps, and bird hide at Reedy Lakes. Management of boating at Lake Charm and boating and camping at Lake Kangaroo. Committees of Manage reserved Crown Land on Kangaroo Manage the western foreshore of Management behalf of the Minister. Committees Lake Kangaroo Lake. are usually the local Shire or publicly Committee of elected. Management Murray-Darling Basin Manage the River Murray and the n/a Work cooperatively with partner Commission Menindee Lakes system of the lower governments, committees and Darling River. Advise the Natural community groups to develop and Resource Management Ministerial implement policies and programs Council on matters related to the use aimed at integrated management of of environmental resources of the the Murray-Darling Catchment. Murray-Darling Basin. Victorian Catchment Advise State Government on North Central Implement Regional Catchment Management Council catchment management, and land Catchment Strategies. Prepare and implement and water resource issues and Management Action Plans. Manage surrounding priorities. Encourage cooperation Authority catchment and inflowing streams. between land and water managers. Promote community awareness on catchment management issues. Environment Protection Coordinate all activities relating to the EPA Bendigo Licence sewage and other Authority (EPA) discharge of waste into the discharges. Monitor water quality. environment and the generation, Develop State Environment storage, treatment, transport and Protection Policies (SEPPs) for disposal of industrial waste and the specified segments of the emission of noise and for preventing environment - e.g.SEPP (Waters of or controlling pollution and noise and Victoria). protecting and improving the quality of the environment. Urban Water Authority Provide water and sewerage service Lower Murray Provide water and sewerage to urban communities. Water service to Kerang. Monitor licensed discharge of treated wastewater from treatment lagoons. Rural Water Authority Provide irrigation, drainage, water Goulburn- Manage the Torrumbarry Irrigation supply, and management of specific Murray Water System. Regulate agricultural water supply catchments. extraction. Protect managed reserves.

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3 Policy Framework

The suite of relevant international conventions, and • Regional Floodplain Management Strategy the Commonwealth and Victorian legislation and (2000); policy that directs management and use of Ramsar • Regional Flood Strategy (1999). sites are outlined in the Strategic Directions Statement. This Chapter covers the local policy Catchment Management Authorities (CMAs) in framework comprising plans, strategies and Victoria are currently reviewing their Regional municipal planning provisions. Catchment Strategies. The revised regional catchment strategies will guide future investment in 3.1 Strategies the catchment under some State natural resource management programs, the National Action Plan for There are a range of existing plans and strategies Salinity and Water Quality and the Natural Heritage that provide for the protection and enhancement of Trust. This Strategic Management Plan will be the natural and cultural values of the Kerang recognised under the North Central Regional Wetlands Ramsar site. Victoria has a strong Catchment Strategic framework. planning framework and as a result these plans and strategies demonstrate a high level of integrated Operational plans for several wetlands have been planning and address many aspects of wise use. prepared. These include: • Reedy Lakes Environmental Status Report The North Central Catchment Management (2001); Authority (NCCMA) has adopted a tiered planning framework. The first tier consists of the Regional • Cemetery Swamp Feasibility Study and Catchment Strategy which sets strategic direction Operational Guidelines (2001); and a Regional Management Plan which defines • Johnson Swamp (West Side) Watering and resource allocation and performance targets on an Operational Plan (2001); annual basis. Whole of Catchment Plans for each • Lake Cullen Feasibility Study and Operational catchment in the Catchment Management Authority Guidelines (2001); and (CMA) area form the second tier. The third and • Hird Swamp (West Side) Watering and fourth tiers in this framework are regional and Operational Plan (2001). catchment or sub-catchment based plans that are framed around specific natural resource issues. The Strategies and plans relating to allocation and CMA plans and strategies relevant to the Kerang management of environmental water include: Wetlands include: • Entitlements to the Murray – outcomes of work • North Central Regional Catchment Strategy to define how Victoria’s River Murray water is to (1997) Reviewed 2003; be shared (1999); • Avoca Nutrient Management Strategy (2002); • Environmental Water Allocation (27,600 ML) • Avoca Whole of Catchment Plan 2000-2002; Annual Works Program (prepared annually); • Draft North Central Native Vegetation Plan • 27,600 ML Environmental Water Allocation (2000); Review of Usage (prepared annually); and • Loddon Catchment Water Quality Strategy • Kerang Lakes Wetlands Flooding Planner (Draft) (2002); (prepared annually). • Loddon Murray Land and Water Management The future management of the Tutchewop Lakes Strategy (2002); (Lakes Tutchewop, William, Kelly and Little Kelly) as • Loddon Murray Regional Rural Partnership a salinity disposal basin has been assessed in a Program for a Sustainable Economy Beyond number of reports including: 2000 (1997). • Ecological Assessment of Future Management • Loddon Whole of Catchment Plan 2000-2002; Options for the Tutchewop Lakes; and • • North Central Catchment Management Lake Tutchewop Sustainability: Projections of Authority Regional Floodplain Management Physical Conditions to the Tutchewop Lakes Strategy (2000); (1999). • North Central Catchment Management A number of government strategies and programs Authority Regional Management Plan 2001- have the potential to impact on the future 2002; management of the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site

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by influencing future land and water use at a State or These programs are likely to bring changes in land regional scale. These include the following: and water management, as well as affect options for salt disposal. Outcomes may either constrain future • The Government’s ‘Water for the Future’ Ramsar site management options or create agenda aims to secure sustainable water opportunities. It is important to ensure that impacts supplies for Victoria’s future. Two of the four and benefits are assessed in an integrated way major targets of the ‘Water for the Future’ policy based on agreed environmental, economic and have the potential to influence the future social values of wetlands in the Ramsar site. management of the Kerang Wetlands. These are: increasing the efficiency of irrigation The Kerang-Swan Hill Future Land Use Pilot Project systems across the State by 25 per cent by is investigating future land use options in the area 2020 through replacing channel systems with and will use the Kerang Lakes as a case study. The pipelines and other improvements and reform; project is in response to large changes in the and significantly improving the ecological health irrigation industry. It is exploring how to optimise local of Victoria's rivers by 2010 by increasing infrastructure while considering social and environmental flows and undertaking riverbank environmental impacts, water use, floodplain and catchment management works. The management, economic growth and land use government released ‘Securing our Water planning outcomes. Future: a Green Paper for Discussion’ (DSE 2003c) in August 2003 to engage the The Loddon Murray Irrigation Region Co-ordination community in the details of meeting water Forum Technical Management Group is developing sustainability and conservation goals. a wetland prioritisation framework for wetlands in the Kerang area. The framework involves a detailed risk • Water trading allows water to be permanently or analysis of activities across all wetlands, including temporarily traded from one region to another to those in the Ramsar site. The analysis will assist in promote more efficient use. Water has been setting priority wetlands for management of risks. permanently traded away from the Kerang area Management options will then be considered for over the last decade (NRE 2001). Currently this priority wetlands. amounts to about 4% of the total water right for the Loddon Murray region per annum (NCCMA Three recently developed statewide strategies are 2002c). relevant to the management of Kerang Wetlands Forest Ramsar site. • The Government’s Water for Growth Initiative sets out strategies for sustainable and effective The Victorian River Health Strategy (VRHS) provides management of water. Improved efficiency in a framework that enables Government and water delivery and use will change patterns of community to manage and restore rivers in the water distribution and use in irrigation areas like State. The VRHS aims to achieve healthy rivers, Kerang. streams and floodplains, which meet the • Water savings projects in Victoria are aimed at environmental, economic, recreational and cultural improving water use efficiency to achieve needs of current and future generations (NRE savings that can be made available for new 2002d). The VRHS establishes regional planning developments or environmental uses. The processes for CMAs to prepare regional river health Government has adopted principles applying to strategies, which will coordinate other river-related water efficiency projects that include the action plans and direct the development of annual protection and improvement of environmental works programs. outcomes. The Indigenous Partnership Strategy (NRE 2001) • The Basin Salinity Management Strategy 2001- provides the framework for building effective 2015 (Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council, relationships with Indigenous communities, who 2001) guides communities and Governments in have a fundamental role in the management of controlling salinity. It establishes end-of-valley Victoria’s natural resources, as traditional custodians salinity targets for each tributary valley in the of the land and waters. This strategy sets out key Murray-Darling Basin and for Morgan in South initiatives to assist in the development and delivery of Australia. It uses a system of salinity credits and services to Indigenous people, which should be debits to allow flexibility in governments meeting applied during management planning. their targets. Salt credits are required for any proposed project that increases salt loads into Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – A the Murray. Framework for Action (NRE 2002e) establishes the strategic direction for the protection, enhancement

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and revegetation of native vegetation across the The purpose of the PUZ1 is to: State. The framework focuses on managing native • recognise public land use for public utility and vegetation to provide sustainable landscapes and to community services and facilities (the number protect productive capacity and environmental “1” indicating the purpose of the public land is values of land and water resources. Service and Utility and in the case of Fosters In addition, wetlands in the Kerang Wetlands Swamp this relates to storage of treated Ramsar site are listed in A Directory of Important wastewater); and Wetlands in Australia - 3rd Edition (EA 2001) and • provide for associated uses that are consistent support migratory bird species listed under the with the intent of the public land reservation or Japan-Australia and China-Australia Migratory Bird purpose. Agreements (JAMBA and CAMBA). Furthermore, as part of the local planning scheme 3.2 Municipal Strategic Statements, review, the Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO3) has been applied to all wetlands in the zoning and overlays Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. The purpose of this Gannawarra Shire Council has a Municipal Strategic overlay is to: Statement (MSS) and local policies as part of their • recognise the important function and planning scheme, which recognise the significance of existing lakes in the land pattern; environmental values and importance of the Kerang • protect the visual and environmental quality and Wetlands. character of the lakes and their environs; Zoning pursuant to the Planning and Environment • provide for appropriate development on land Act 1987 has been applied to the Kerang Wetlands adjacent to Lake Charm, Kangaroo Lake and Ramsar site as part of a review of local planning Racecourse Lake, consistent with the inherent schemes to control land use and development. The use of the area for tourist, holiday and zoning for the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site recreational purposes, while protecting the includes Public Conservation and Resource Zone natural beauty and amenity of the land and (PCRZ) and Public Use Zone – Service and Utility lakes themselves; (PUZ1). All wetlands in the Ramsar site are in the • maintain the function of the lakes as a flood PCRZ with the exception of Fosters Swamp, which control basin; and is in PUZ1. • protect the natural beauty of the area. The purpose of the PCRZ is to: It is important that a strategic approach is taken to • protect and conserve the natural environment addressing planning issues to protect Ramsar and natural processes for their historic, wetlands. It has been recognised that some land use scientific, landscape, habitat or cultural values; changes in the region (e.g. irrigation development and a pattern of increasing residential development • provide facilities which assist in public education adjacent to lakes) have the potential to impact on and interpretation of the natural environment wetland values. Irrigation development is subject to with minimal degradation of the natural strict guidelines. environment or natural processes; and • provide for appropriate resource uses.

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4 Values

The key environmental values of the Kerang The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site includes areas of Wetlands Ramsar site for which it was listed the State’s most depleted wetland habitats and (representativeness, flora and fauna and waterbirds) wetlands least represented in Victoria’s protected are summarised below. Other values described area network (Table 4.1). Only 30% of deep include natural function, cultural heritage, scenic, freshwater marsh areas remain in Victoria making it economic, education and interpretation, recreation one of the most depleted wetland types. The Kerang and tourism, and scientific. Wetlands Ramsar site represents more than 12% of the remaining deep freshwater marsh in Victoria. 4.1 Wetland representativeness 4.2 Flora and fauna The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site represents six of the eight Victorian wetland categories (Table 2.2). All More than 150 species of indigenous flora have of the wetlands within the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar been recorded at the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site sites were modified from their original pre-European (DSE 2003b). No flora species recorded in the condition prior to their inclusion as Ramsar sites. In Ramsar site are listed under the Flora and Fauna particular, the water regimes of the wetlands were Guarantee Act 1988. However, eight flora species significantly modified with the development of the listed as threatened in Victoria have been recorded Torrumbarry Irrigation System in the 1920s, and the at the Ramsar site and a further seven species are associated changes to the landscape, such as rising suspected of being threatened (Appendix 2). groundwater and associated salinity, which have had a major effect on the ecology and environmental The Ramsar site supports a range of vegetation values of the region’s wetlands. including Black Box and River Red Gum, Tangled Lignum, Chenopod Shrubland, Grassland, Reedbed The individual wetlands that are listed as part of the and Aquatic plant communities (O’Donnell 1990). Kerang Wetlands Ramsar sites are a relatively small The Black Box woodland communities such as at subset of a larger wetland complex that occurs within Third Marsh and Cemetery Swamp are a particularly the Loddon-Murray Region. Many of the unlisted valuable vegetation community. Spiny Lignum is wetlands are recognised as having high suspected of being threatened in Victoria and occurs environmental value (e.g. Tragowel Swamp, at many of the wetlands in the Ramsar site. Wandella State Forest).

Table 4.1 Representativeness of Victorian wetland types in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site1

Pre- Area (ha) Area (ha) in Ramsar Kerang European remaining Victoria’s protected coverage in Wetlands area (ha) in in Victoria area network Victoria (ha) (ha) Wetland type Victoria Deep Freshwater Marsh 176,601 54,860 21,877 9,041 1,934 Permanent Open 70,658 190,694 55,729 25,352 2,632 Freshwater

Permanent Saline 155,608 154,191 70,778 131,743 1,627

Semi-permanent Saline 67,404 70,272 40,409 12,867 344 Shallow Freshwater 127,031 54,603 9,410 8,147 248 Marsh 1 Source: DSE geospatial data layer WETLAND_1994. 2 The increase from “Pre-European area” to “area remaining” is due to the construction of dams, weirs and other impoundments.

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The Kerang Wetlands provide habitat for over 102 Lakes support the threatened Blue-billed Duck. species of indigenous fauna. Of these, 24 species Middle Lake also occasionally supports Freckled are listed under the Victorian Flora and Fauna Duck. Guarantee Act 1988 (Appendix 3). In addition, 32 species listed as threatened in Victoria have been Freckled Duck has also been recorded at Kangaroo recorded at the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site with a Lake. At times the lake supports significant numbers further 17 species near-threatened (Appendix 3). Of of Pink-eared Duck and Hardhead. These lakes can these, the Macquarie Perch, Murray Hardyhead, act as drought refuges. Warty Bell Frog and Plains-wanderer are listed as Lake Charm supports 5% of the state or 10% of the threatened in Australia under the Environment regional population of Great Crested Grebe. Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 Freckled Ducks have been recorded at the site. Lake (Appendix 3). Fifteen bird species listed under the Charm, Little Lake Charm, Kangaroo Lake and Japan-Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA) Racecourse Lake can act as drought refuges, and 18 species under the China-Australia Migratory however due to their water management regimes Birds Agreement (CAMBA) utilise the Kerang (permanent wetlands with little fluctuation in the Wetlands for feeding and roosting. Fifteen of these littoral zone) they do not provide good nesting or species are common to both agreements. The feeding habitat for a range of different species. Kerang Wetlands also have 32 species listed under Johnson Swamp also supports the endangered the Bonn Convention (Appendix 4). Freckled Duck.

4.3 Waterbirds Hird Swamp supports regionally significant numbers of Pacific Black Duck and Maned Duck. Hird Swamp Waterbird populations are particularly diverse and is a regionally significant breeding site for Straw- abundant within the Kerang Wetlands, with the necked Ibis, Sacred Ibis and Royal Spoonbill. wetlands providing important feeding, resting and Freckled Ducks and Blue-billed Ducks have also breeding habitat for more than 50 waterbird species. been recorded at this site. Middle Lake and Hird Swamp in particular support large Ibis breeding colonies with tens of thousands of Lake Cullen is of special value because it supports a pairs at each site. Middle Lake is the largest regularly high diversity and abundance of waterbird species. used Ibis rookery in Victoria. Lake Cullen supports 1% of the national population of Eurasian Coot, Hardhead, Hoary-headed Grebe, Waterbird records show that Third Marsh is Pink-eared Duck and Grey Teal (Lugg 1989, Corrick important to Eurasian Coot, Grey Teal and 1982, Peter 1990). Blue-billed Duck have also been Hardheads. Third Marsh was the third most reported from this site (Corrick 1982). Although important wetland for Coot with 3,000 counted in Freckled Duck were recorded in significant numbers Victoria in 1989 (Peter 1989); the most important in the 1980s, more recent counts indicate numbers wetland for Grey Teal (7,000 counted); and the fifth have decreased (Coleborn, pers. comm.). most important for Hardheads (85 counted) in 1988 (Hewish 1988). Third Marsh also supports the Fosters Swamp has high water bird carrying capacity endangered Freckled Duck (maximum of 436 and species diversity (Lugg et al. 1989). sighted by Corrick and Norman 1980) and the threatened Blue-billed Duck (Peter 1990). When the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site was listed in 1982, Lake Tutchewop supported significant Records show that First Marsh has had up to 200 numbers of Hoary-headed Grebe and Australian nests for Great Cormorant, 120 for Little Black Shelduck. Corrick (1982) reported regular usage of Cormorant and 300 for Little Pied Cormorant the site by Freckled Duck. Lake Tutchewop’s (Corrick and Norman 1980). Approximately 300 capacity to support large numbers of waterbirds may Darter nests were recorded in 1989 at Second have been compromised by increased salinity levels. Marsh (Lugg et al. 1989).

In most years Lake Bael Bael has been found to 4.4 Natural function support the endangered Freckled Duck and Little Natural functions are activities or actions that occur Bittern. naturally in wetlands as a product of the interactions between the ecosystem structure and processes. Middle Lake supports more than 10% of the regional breeding population of Straw-necked Ibis and The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site provides a suite Sacred Ibis and more than 5% of Victoria’s breeding of important functions including wildlife habitat, water population of Royal Spoonbill. Reedy and Middle supply, flood control and salt disposal. Invertebrate

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diversity also plays an important role in supporting Applications for Native Title Determinations lodged natural functions and contributing to overall with the Native Title Tribunal cover the whole area biodiversity. including the Ramsar site.

The important natural functions supported by the 4.6 Scenic Kerang wetlands are not just beneficial to the wetlands and the immediate local area, they also The Kerang Wetlands have high scenic values have positive implications for the wider catchment. because of the diversity of wetland types that provide habitat for a wide variety of waterbirds. 4.5 Aboriginal cultural heritage 4.7 Economic The Kerang Wetlands are rich in Aboriginal cultural heritage. The Lakes provided reliable sources of The Kerang region has traditionally had an water as well as a rich and diverse supply of plant agricultural and service based economy. There is an and animal resources for food, medicines, shelter, increasing focus on irrigated agriculture which clothing and tools. produces horticultural, dairy, meat and grain products. The gross value of agricultural production All Aboriginal sites, places and objects are protected for the Loddon-Murray region in 1999-2000 was under the Archaeological and Aboriginal Relics $399 million (NCCMA 2002c). Preservation Act 1972 (Vic.) and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 Recreation and tourism is also an important part of (Cwlth). the regional economy and is mostly dependent on the ongoing viability of natural assets such as the To date, a total of 425 Aboriginal sites have been wetlands and the Red Gum forests. registered on the Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (Department for Victorian Communities) Register of 4.8 Education and interpretation Aboriginal sites and places in the Kerang Lakes Area (this area extends beyond the Ramsar listed The Kerang Wetlands provide an area of high wetlands). These sites include mounds, scarred educational value, however, there has been little trees, middens, burials, hearths, surface scatters and interpretive material developed for the region. Until isolated artefacts. The sites occur on river plains and the mid-1990s, interpretive services were offered at floodplains within 2 kilometres of watercourses, on the Koorangie Ranger Station. Now the main the margins of swamps, levees, river banks, and on educational feature of the area is the bird hide lunettes around swamps. Further survey is likely to located at Reedy Lake, which has an associated reveal more archaeological sites. information display. However, there are issues relating to public risk that need to be addressed at The local Aboriginal communities are the North West this site. There is potential for offering improved Nations Clans Aboriginal Corporation and the former education and interpretation services for the Bendigo Dja Dja Wrung Aboriginal Association wetlands. Incorporated (now defunct). Traditional owner groups are the Wamba Wamba and the Barapa The Waterwatch program provides an opportunity for Barapa. Ongoing discussions need to take place high levels of community involvement in water with local Aboriginal people in order to facilitate the monitoring programs. management of Aboriginal cultural heritage. In particular, managers need to ensure that Aboriginal 4.9 Recreation and tourism heritage values are not adversely impacted in the The Kerang Wetlands area is a valuable resource for course of implementing other site management recreation and tourism. The value of the land for strategies. recreation, in part, stems from its natural ecological This is being facilitated by through the North West assets. Activities include scenic driving, sightseeing, Region Aboriginal Cultural Heritage program and the camping, picnicking, swimming, sailing, water skiing, recent Protocols, Principles and Strategies boating, fishing, hunting and bird watching and Agreement for Indigenous Involvement in Land and nature study and appreciation. Water Management agreed between the North Native fish (Murray Cod and Golden Perch) were Central Catchment Management Authority, the North stocked into several wetlands in 2002 following the West Nations Clans Aboriginal Corporation and the buy-back of five Inland Access Fishing Licences with Yorta Yorta Aboriginal Corporation (VCMC 2003). In funding from the Recreational Fishing Trust Fund. future, management agencies will liaise with and The licence buy-back resulted in the cessation of involve all relevant Indigenous communities.

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commercial net fishing for all species other than carp A combination of altered flooding regimes, high in 2002. salinity surface water and saline groundwater intrusion have changed vegetation patterns and led Although many of these waters already contain ‘wild’ to the stress or death of trees and associated populations of golden perch, Murray cod, redfin and vegetation in many of the wetlands of the Kerang carp, trial stockings and a formal monitoring program Wetlands Ramsar site. Absence of flooding has also will determine the contribution that stocked fish make impacted on the vegetation in some wetlands. As to the existing fish population. well as the death of trees, there has been significant alteration to natural vegetation patterns (i.e. changes To evaluate the success of these stockings, each of to saltbush and halophytic species). the yearling Murray cod, weighing around 200 grams at the time of release, were implanted with a dart tag. Water Quality Individually numbered, the tags also display a phone number for anglers to ring when they catch the cod. The Kerang wetlands exhibit a full range of salinities This way, researchers can tally the fish caught by from very fresh to hypersaline. Water quality is anglers and monitor their movement and their growth significantly affected by rising saline groundwater, rate as they approach minimum size. saline surface water run-off, lack of regular flushing and prolonged inundation. The deep permanent Several other waters, no longer open to commercial freshwater lakes (e.g. Kangaroo, Racecourse and fishing (other than carp) will also be considered for Reedy) have salinity levels less than 500 EC, as they stocking when current low water levels, brought on are regularly flushed with good quality water. by drought, improve. In contrast, salinity levels of wetlands such as Lake 4.10 Scientific Cullen (which has been isolated from the floodplain) fluctuate in the range of 4,000 to 50,000 EC as part The diversity and complexity of the Kerang Wetlands of the wetting/drying cycle (by comparison, sea water provides opportunities for a range of scientific and is approximately 50,000 EC). research orientated projects to be undertaken. Students from Deakin University have undertaken Lakes Tutchewop, Kelly, Little Lake Kelly and several studies in the area. Some scientific work has William are used as salt disposal basins and this has been undertaken on groundwater / surface water caused their average salinity levels to rise steadily. interaction and water movement within the Kerang Sinclair Knight Merz (1999a) estimated that over Lakes area. Generally the understanding of 1.3 million tonnes of salt is now stored in these lakes. groundwater with Kerang wetlands is still poor and Proposals to address this are described in Section more work is required to expand on existing 5.2. High nutrient levels also have an impact on knowledge. Both Sinclair Knight Merz and the Centre water quality, particularly in relation to flora and for Land Protection Research (Bendigo) have been fauna habitat, recreational use and domestic supply. studying the impact of groundwater movement on Considerable work has been undertaken to mitigate wetlands. the introduction of nutrients and salt to the lakes. For example, irrigation drainage reuse systems have 4.11 Condition been established in some areas east of the Kerang Wetlands that are utilised for intensive dairy farming. Vegetation

The vegetation at the Kerang wetlands supports a diversity of native flora species. However, clearing for agricultural development has resulted in native vegetation being confined to narrow corridors and disjointed and isolated patches along streams, around lakes and swamps and along roadsides. Most of these areas have been subject to heavy grazing pressures from adjacent farmland.

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5 Management of Risks

The key risks to the maintenance of environmental to the ecology, natural processes, and biodiversity of values in the Kerang Wetlands are discussed below these wetlands. and summarised in Table 5.1. These risks are Since European settlement and the commencement altered water regimes, salinity, pollution, pest plants of irrigation in the 1880s, water and flow regimes and animals, resource utilisation, recreation, erosion, have been dramatically altered in a variety of ways dredging, fire and land management. These risks with many impacts. These are discussed below. result from activities within the wetlands themselves, on adjacent land and within the catchment generally Increased inundation and an integrated approach to their management is Some wetlands within the Kerang Lakes area that required. were once ephemeral and intermittent wetlands 5.1 Altered water regimes have become permanent lakes (e.g. Reedy Lakes). Permanent or prolonged inundation has changed the The Kerang area is supplied with irrigation water vegetation communities associated with the from the via the Torrumbarry Irrigation wetlands. These wetlands are now dominated by System (TIS). The TIS is an extensive, interlinked Cumbungi (Typha sp.) and have lost most of their system of channels, lakes, weirs and streams macrophytes. These changes significantly reduce (KLAWG 1993). Some wetlands in the Ramsar site available fauna habitat. also receive water from the Avoca system (i.e. Top, Middle and Bottom Marshes). Reduced inundation/absence of flushing flows Some wetlands within the TIS that previously Several wetlands within the Kerang Wetlands received regular inundation have now been isolated Ramsar site provide storage for the irrigation system from the floodplain due to levee banking and flood (i.e. Lake Charm and the Reedy Lakes, Kangaroo management. This has resulted in reduced and Racecourse Lakes); a number are used as inundation and an absence of flood flows. For a evaporation basins to reduce the salt discharge into myriad of flora and fauna, this has led to a lack of the River Murray (i.e. Lake Kelly, Little Lake Kelly, environmental cues (such as flooding or changes in Lake William and Lake Tutchewop); some are used salinity levels) that are important to the triggering of for flood mitigation; and many are valued for important ecological processes within the Ramsar- recreational purposes. listed wetlands (e.g. bird breeding, fish spawning and plant germinating). The hydrological changes are The use of the Kerang wetlands for storage and also likely to have altered faunal habitat leading to conveyance of irrigation water and the disposal of lower recruitment rates (MDBMC 2002). drainage water has altered the natural hydrological cycle (KLAWG 1993). These changes have affected Wetlands that are no longer flushed naturally risk the natural environment of the wetlands in two major turning into hypersaline wetlands. Hypersaline ways: wetlands may not support any vegetation or animals • alteration of natural flooding regimes (reduced other than algae, halophytes and a small range of inundation and absence of natural flushing birds that rest on the surface. There are, however, flows, increased inundation, reversal of issues surrounding the flushing of saline wetlands as seasonal flows); Victoria has agreed to certain salinity targets for the Murray River at Morgan and these cannot be • increasing groundwater height and salinity (see exceeded. Salinity credits are required to discharge Section 5.3); and salt to the Murray. The effect of saline discharges on These changes have reduced or resulted in the loss downstream landholders also needs to be of biodiversity supported by the Ramsar site. considered.

Alteration of natural flooding regimes Lake Tutchewop will not be flushed as it is managed Prior to European settlement, the Kerang Wetlands as a salinity disposal basin to prevent large salt loads and surrounding region was characterised by saline, from the Barr Creek catchment entering the Murray brackish and freshwater lakes, streams and semi- River. Lake Charm is flushed artificially according to permanent or permanent wetlands (KLAWG 1993). a flushing management protocol. Flushing occurs Wide floodplains and flat topography allowed into the Murray River when flows are high with the widespread flooding and flushing of the lakes system community meeting the cost of operations, to occur. This flooding and flushing regime is central infrastructure renewal and disposal of saline water.

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Recent work to investigate options for flushing prepared annually (see Section 3.1). Two relate wetlands that have been isolated from the floodplain directly to use of the allocation and outline the have resulted in inlets and outlets being built for Hird recommendations for usage in the current year and and Johnson Swamps to allow these wetlands to be review the previous year’s usage. The flushed. Environmental Water Allocation (27,600 ML) Annual Works Program for 2001/2002 outlines the decision Reversal of seasonal flow regimes support system used to guide allocation decisions. The use of streams and wetlands for storage and conveying of irrigation water has altered water The third report provides guidance to Goulburn- regimes in the area. Contrary to natural conditions, Murray Water on the management of flood events, if streams now have low flows in winter and high flows possible, to maximise environmental outcomes. in summer (KLAWG 1993). High summer flows Part of the Flora and Fauna entitlement was used in occur when water is released for irrigation during a the spring of 2000 to fill Lake Cullen with over season in which natural flows would normally have 10,000 ML to flush the lake bed in line with the Lake been low. Alternatively, naturally high winter flows Cullen Feasibility Study and Operational Guidelines may be reduced and stored during the wetter part of (2001). In August 2001, a bird survey estimated that the year, which results in wetlands not receiving their approximately 15,000 birds of 42 species were using natural watering regimes. This is particularly crucial the lake. to River Red Gum wetlands that need a period of inundation, followed by an episode of summer- Over the past five years, part of this entitlement has autumn drying in order to remain healthy (Lloyd et al. been used to improve the ecological values of Hird, 1994). and Johnson Swamps, particularly the carrying capacity, species diversity and breeding Lakes that are linked to irrigation supply are full for opportunities for waterbirds. nine months of the year. For the other three months water levels are maintained at lower levels. A small There are significant costs associated with delivery number of wetlands in the Kerang area (e.g. Avoca of the Environmental Water Allocation to those Marshes) are naturally flooded. wetlands where it is necessary to use irrigation infrastructure for delivery. The Victorian River Health In managing the water regimes of wetlands in the Strategy (NRE 2002) states that costs associated Kerang Wetlands, it is not possible to restore natural with bulk entitlements for the environment will be (pre-European) water regimes for most of the considered as part of a proposed discussion paper wetlands. The use of many wetlands in the Ramsar on ‘Options for Providing Bulk Entitlements for the site for irrigation and salinity disposal purposes Environment’. imposes constraints but also creates opportunities for improving water regimes. The goal is to manage The current bulk entitlement conversion process for water regimes to restore sustainable ecological the Middle and lower Loddon River and the functions and attributes, based on natural streamflow management plan for the Avoca River hydrological regimes as far as practicable. This has are expected to improve the health of these rivers involved establishing a preferred wetting, drying or and thus indirectly benefit wetlands in the Ramsar flushing cycle for some wetlands. Inlets and outlets site that fill from them. While these processes will are being constructed at wetlands as required to help river and wetland health, the bulk entitlement facilitate appropriate water management. process will not be assessing individual water requirements of wetlands. In 1999 the Government approved the Murray River bulk entitlements. These formalised a Flora and The management of the water regime of individual Fauna entitlement first allocated in 1987 that can be wetlands in the Ramsar site is also complicated by used for wetlands with access to Murray River water. potential impacts on the wetlands from programs The entitlement is for 27,600 ML of high security and trends operating at the regional level. These water. Wetlands in the Ramsar site are considered include water trading, water savings projects, high priority wetlands for use of the allocation and improvements in efficiencies in agricultural water use 2,600 ML is specifically set aside for Hird and and proposals to manage irrigation systems Johnson Swamps. differently. The Loddon Murray Land and Water Management Strategy includes strategies to ensure The Department of Sustainability and Environment wetland values are protected or enhanced as these facilitates the Environmental Water Allocation changes take place. Committee that discusses water usage within wetlands based on enhancing and maintaining existing environmental values. Three reports are

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The Loddon-Murray 2000 Plus regional development lakes that have stable water levels have generally project identified 16 areas in the region as prime low conservation values except for native fish (DCFL development zones with adequate infrastructure and 1989). Aquatic plants are uncommon in this wetland water to support new development. This land was type, habitat diversity is low and mainly fish eating identified as being suitable for future irrigation birds are present, but in low numbers (DCFL 1989). development, based on land capability studies. One of the zones identified was in the vicinity of the Water levels need to fluctuate (to increase the littoral Ramsar site at Lake Charm. The zones were zone) and in some cases semi-permanent wetlands subsequently assessed for land capability, salinity need to be completely dry for maximum abundance risks and environmental risks. Based on this and diversity of waterbirds and aquatic invertebrates. assessment, the zone at Lake Charm is no longer Rising water levels are also known to be important to being promoted for development due to soil type native fish breeding (DCFL 1989). limitations. Exotic fish have flourished in this altered There is concern that new irrigation development environment with European Carp, Gambusia and has the potential to threaten the ecological value Redfin Perch all affecting biodiversity of the system Ramsar wetlands and other wetlands in the region. with impacts upon habitat, competition and Interim guidelines have been completed for irrigation predation. practices where new development is adjacent to The Loddon Murray Irrigation Region Co-ordination Ramsar wetlands. These make recommendations Forum Technical Management Group is developing on further research and monitoring (Savage and a wetland prioritisation framework for the Kerang McNeill 2003). area to assist in resolving water management Groundwater changes issues. Management agencies (including DSE, Parks Victoria, Goulburn-Murray Water, North The large regional changes to water distribution and Central Catchment Management Authority, the application, as well as the impacts of vegetation Commonwealth Department of Environment and clearing, has meant that groundwater levels have Heritage and the Murray-Darling Basin Commission) risen, which in turn affects the water balance and are encouraged to utilise this framework to ensure water quality in wetlands. Irrigation has been the water is directed to priority wetlands, including main factor in increasing local groundwater levels. Ramsar sites, within the catchment. Rising water tables change the water regime of wetlands that are connected to the groundwater by preventing the otherwise natural occurrence of 5.2 Salinity drying out in summer. Rising groundwater levels and salinisation of wetlands are major issues in the Kerang Lakes area. Frequently, this groundwater in the Kerang region is The natural groundwater table has been rising in the highly saline, which also adversely impacts on the Kerang area since the introduction of irrigated ecology of the wetlands in the region (Mackay and agriculture in the 1930s, combined with extensive Eastburn 1990). Monitoring of the aquifer associated vegetation clearing throughout the catchment. with the Kerang Wetlands has revealed salinity Irrigation practices in the local area have also levels of commonly between 30,000 EC and contributed to rising groundwater and increased 60,000 EC. The very high level of salinity renders the salinity. groundwater unsuitable for most purposes including irrigation, stock and domestic supply (NRE 2002a). Prior to the commencement of irrigation, watertables in the Kerang region were believed to have been Loss of biodiversity four to nine metres below the surface. The changes In some cases changes in the natural flow regimes in the hydrological cycle have resulted in the majority have led to a loss of biodiversity within the wetlands of irrigation land within the Kerang Wetlands area by lowering flora community diversity and, hence the being underlain by a high saline watertable that types of habitats available to fauna. Loss of fluctuates continually between zero and two metres biodiversity for aquatic invertebrates also affects below ground surface (Hydrotechnology 1995). vertebrate fauna such as fish and waterbirds. Salinity levels of the groundwater range from 30,000 to 60,000 EC (KLAWG 1993). The management of the TIS is primarily for irrigation supply and flood mitigation. Consequently, many Direct saline intrusions of groundwater, disposal of wetlands are kept at an unnaturally high level to saline drainage water, and isolation from natural maximise their value for irrigation. Permanent open flushing flows have combined to cause major salinity freshwater wetlands such as the irrigation supply increases in many wetlands.

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Salinity within the system can vary widely, depending required to avoid loss of most biodiversity values in on both the location and the time of the year. 10 to 20 years time and the increasing loss of Essentially Murray River water, which is diverted evaporative capacity with significant consequences from the Torrumbarry Weir pool, is of very low for Murray River salinity levels. salinity, typically less than 150 EC. As this water travels through the TIS it receives inputs of saline Approximately 50,000 tonnes of salt accumulates in water from groundwater sources and from streams the Tutchewop Lakes each year. A new higher off- and drains within the system. take weir has been constructed on Barr Creek where water is diverted to the Tutchewop Lakes. The new The characteristics of some wetlands have been weir will exclude high flows from the Little Murray completely altered, causing the extinction of many River, which had the effect of diluting the saline Barr freshwater dependent plant and animal species. Creek water when they occurred. New operational Stevenson Swamp is a terminal lake with no rules have also been developed on when to pump recognised water supply. It is an example of a into the Tutchewop Lakes in relation to flow and salt wetland which was historically fresh or brackish and loads in Barr Creek. With these changes in place, has now become hypersaline, supporting virtually no 67,500 tonnes of salt will be diverted to the flora or fauna within the flooded area (KLAWG Tutchewop Lakes each year. 1993). The Loddon Murray Land and Water Management In order to reduce salt discharge into the Murray Strategy (2002) outlines strategies to improve River, Lakes Tutchewop, William and Kelly, and Little irrigation farming practices and surface water Lake Kelly (the Tutchewop Lakes) have been drainage management in the Loddon-Murray region, managed as evaporation basins for the disposal of including the Barr Creek catchment. However, saline drainage water from the Barr Creek discharge of saline groundwater into Barr Creek will Catchment since 1968. Lakes William, Kelly and continue and salinity concentration in the Creek may Little Kelly are naturally saline and previously increase in the future. This could come about as followed a wet/dry cyclic pattern with considerable water efficiency measures reduce the volume of saline discharge. Lake Tutchewop was formerly irrigation tailwater, which currently dilutes inflow from fresh and intermittently filled by floodwaters before the saline watertable. being isolated from the floodplain as part of the Tutchewop Lakes scheme. Diversion of water into To overcome the problem of accumulation of salt in these lakes from Barr Creek has changed them into the Tutchewop Lakes, a preferred option for permanent water bodies with rising salinity levels. managing the lakes was agreed by the Department of Environment and Heritage, the Murray-Darling Salinisation of the wetlands may directly affect those Basin Commission and the Department of fauna that breed, nest or forage in waterbodies, such Sustainability and Environment in 2000. The as invertebrates, fish, amphibians and waterbirds. management regime involved harvesting salt from Diversity of fauna decreases with increasing salinity, the system at the same rate at which it enters from with only hardy, salt tolerant species remaining. Barr Creek. Water from Lake Tutchewop would be However, due to lack of competition and predation, piped to Lake William, where evaporative salt salt-tolerant species may be very abundant and salt harvesting would take place. Water from Lakes Little lakes can often support a very high biomass and Kelly and Kelly would be back-flushed periodically to some of the largest concentrations of waterbirds Lake Tutchewop to minimise their salinity levels. The known. Although they are now saline, the Tutchewop Ramsar values of Lakes Tutchewop, Little Kelly and lakes still qualify under the waterfowl abundance Kelly were predicted to be retained in the long-term criteria of the Convention on Wetlands and form a with loss of some values at Lake William. critical waterbird habitat component of the Kerang Lakes Ramsar site (NRE 2000). Once lakes become Agreement was also reached on a fallback option to hypersaline, however, both species diversity and manage the lakes until the salt harvesting option was abundance are severely affected. implemented. Under that option, saline water would be accumulated first in Lake William with the other The accumulation of salt in the Tutchewop Lakes lakes kept at lower salinity levels. However, this has significantly altered ecological conditions in Lake option is not sustainable in the long term. When Lake Tutchewop, Lake Little and Lake Kelly. Lake William, William fills with salt, Lakes Little and Kelly would always a salt lake, now has higher salinity levels then be used to accumulate salt and lastly Lake (NRE 2000). Salt accumulation also limits the Tutchewop. Infrastructure works are required to effectiveness of the lakes for salinity disposal as their allow both these options to proceed. evaporation rates decrease and salt precipitates. A change in management of the Tutchewop Lakes is

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A proposed commercial salt harvesting venture at Strategy (2002) propose a range of strategies to Lake William did not proceed as planned in 2000. reduce the nutrient load by 50% over 30 years in the The Murray-Darling Basin Commission, which Loddon catchment, and by 25% for phosphorous manages the system, is continuing to actively and 32% for nitrogen in the Avoca catchment over investigate options for removing accumulating salt 30 years. Strategies have been developed from the Tutchewop Lakes and is also planning the consistent with the requirements of the State necessary changes to infrastructure. Environmental Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria). They include actions to control erosion, improve Lake Bael Bael and Top, Middle and Bottom Marsh farming practices, rehabilitate riparian zones, are located on the northern floodplain of the Avoca improve dairy effluent storage systems, improve River. Water quality in the Avoca River is considered management of intensive animal industries as well poor due to high concentrations of salt, turbidity and as drainage and re-use systems in irrigation areas, nutrients (NCCMA 2002a). Changed flow regimes to urban stormwater programs and preparation of the lower end of the Avoca River (including The streamflow management plans and a bulk water Marshes) – due to changed management practices entitlement for the Loddon catchment. upstream and the building of farm dams in the upper catchment – have also affected water quality. Dumping of household refuse in wetlands is mostly Significant degradation and continued threat has carried out in an illegal fashion, but sometimes also been caused by adjacent irrigation. The Avoca wetlands are chosen as mandated sites for refuse Marshes is currently the subject of an integrated disposal. Towards the southern end of Cemetery hydrogeological study. The Avoca Whole of Swamp there is a Municipal Purposes Reserve Catchment Plan 2000-2002 outlines strategies to reserved under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act improve catchment health and reduce impacts on 1978. The township of Kerang uses this area as a the Ramsar wetlands. waste transfer station. It was the site of the former Kerang landfill which closed in 1999. Rehabilitation The Pyramid Creek Groundwater Interception plans for the site are currently being designed by the Scheme is being developed by Goulburn-Murray Gannawarra Shire and include testing for leachate. Water on behalf of the Murray-Darling Basin There is a fully licensed landfill site located outside Commission. The concept is to pump groundwater the Ramsar site approximately 15 km west of from Pyramid Creek between and Hird Kerang currently in use. Swamp to safeguard water quality of the irrigation supply lakes and provide increased protection for the Sedimentation is known to be a pollution issue in Murray River. some wetlands of the region. Increased sedimentation can reduce the depth and alter the 5.3 Pollution water regime of wetlands. In addition, large sediment loads deposited in water bodies such as wetlands Nutrients from fertilisers, animal industries, sewage can smother and destroy macrophytic and benthic and stormwater drains may significantly alter wetland organisms. The extent of this problem, however, is ecosystems. High concentrations of nutrients in unknown within the region. water or sediments promote weed and algal growth. High levels of algal populations can lead to very low 5.4 Pest plants and animals oxygen concentrations, which threaten oxygen dependent aquatic biota such as fish. Pest plants in the Kerang Wetlands are common and have benefited from the changes to the land and The Loddon catchment has the highest incidence of water management of the region, such as changes blue-green algal blooms in the State (NCCMA to water regimes, increased nutrient inputs, grazing 2002b). Water quality in the Avoca catchment is poor of natural areas, and clearing of overstorey and there is potential for increases in the frequency vegetation. There are numerous terrestrial and of algal blooms in the catchment (NCCMA 2002a). aquatic weed species in the Kerang Wetlands region, with Boxthorn, Willow, Spiny Rush, In recent years the frequency of blue-green algae Cumbungi (Typha sp. - there is both an introduced blooms in the Kerang Wetlands have increased, and a native species of Typha which are often reflecting the degradation of the wetlands and difficult to distinguish) and Phragmites (Phragmites associated waterways. The toxins produced by blue- australis - a native species) being the most green algae are harmful to both humans and predominant. Weeds not only pose increased animals and threaten the wetland ecosystem. competition for native species but these also provide The Avoca Nutrient Management Strategy (2002) habitat for pest animal species (KLAWG 1993) and and the Draft Loddon Catchment Water Quality reduce habitat for native fauna.

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Some wetlands have displayed excessive Cumbungi numbers and have had a major impact on the flora. growth within recent years (most likely due to Rabbits have destroyed native remnant vegetation inappropriate watering regimes such as low summer and prevented regeneration (KLAWG 1993). In water levels and higher nutrient levels). Excessive addition, rabbits can severely impact on cultural site Cumbungi reduces the habitat diversity of the values. wetlands (Environmental Water Allocation Proposed Works Program 1998/99). Predation of native wildlife by the introduced Red Fox is listed as a threatening process under the Cumbungi is a perennial plant that plays an Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988. Foxes are important role as habitat for numerous fauna and fish relatively high in number where Lignum vegetation species, but only when it is a component of a more communities are present (e.g. The Marshes) and low diverse plant community. This plant presently in numbers where the wetlands are saline e.g. Lake extends over more than 80% of both Hird and Tutchewop. Foxes are known to predate upon many Johnson Swamps. This is considered detrimental to groups of native fauna such as arboreal mammals most waterbird species. Phragmites has spread (including Brushtail and Ringtail possums), bird around the shoreline of the swamps and into open species, reptiles (such as the Carpet Python), ground around them. Phragmites reduces the areas amphibians and tortoises. Foxes also feed on available for waterbirds to graze, inhibits tortoise eggs and, since these animals are long- regeneration of trees and other plants, and invades lived, the impact of this predation may not be noticed tracks and cleared areas used for camping. until there is a sudden population decline (Turner, pers comm.). Some exotic aquatic flora species have the ability to propagate and spread rapidly in wetland Predation of native wildlife by cats is also listed as a environments. These plants may disturb the wetland threatening process under the Flora and Fauna ecosystem and affect human uses of water by Guarantee Act 1988. Cats continue to prey heavily interfering with irrigation systems and by clogging on native mammals, reptiles and birds. channels, streams and drains. Coarse Water Milfoil chokes areas of open water in Johnson Swamp, and Carp are present in high numbers on the permanent this species may also replace other native species, lakes in the Kerang Wetland system. In high further simplifying the habitat diversity (DCE 1992). densities European Carp are believed to reduce the quality of aquatic habitat for waterbirds and native Arrowhead and Parrots Feather are two weeds that fish by reducing the diversity of aquatic flora and have spread quickly in the past four years and are a competing for food. The most serious impact caused significant threat to the wetland system. There is a by European Carp is increased turbidity within the concern that these species will become established wetlands (Koehn et al. 2000). More research is in the Kerang Wetland Ramsar site and needed to quantify impacts and explore possible progressively invade billabongs and wetlands, methods of reduction. It needs to be recognised that trapping silt in fringing vegetation and thus reducing eradication of carp may not be feasible in the short to the area and quality of aquatic habitat. Work is being medium term due to the complexity and scale of the undertaken by Goulburn-Murray Water to better problem. understand Arrowhead and develop control measures. Parrots Feather thrives in nutrient rich Gambusia compete with and fin-nip native fish, water and has the capability to live in fast-running causing infection and disease (Lloyd 1990; KLAWG water (Backer pers. comm.). To date there are no 1993). Redfin Perch is a predatory species. successful control measures for Parrots Feather. However, its impact on native fish in the wetlands is unknown. The presence of pest animals within the Kerang Wetlands is a threat to the values of the wetlands. 5.5 Resource utilisation The pest animals found within the Kerang Wetlands include rabbits, foxes, pigs, starlings and cats. Carp Utilisation of the Kerang Wetlands is permitted for and Gambusia are considered pest species and grazing, salt harvesting, and water delivery and have flourished and impact on native species storage. through habitat changes, competition and predation. Grazing There is a national management strategy to control carp. Redfin Perch, an introduced important Grazing is carried out according to grazing licences recreational fishing species, are also present. issued under the Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987. Thirteen grazing licences, eight water Rabbits are distributed throughout the Kerang frontage licences and three unused road licences Wetlands system, ranging from low to moderate allow sheep and cattle to intermittently graze

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numerous wetlands. Stock is often introduced into and has established a Biodiversity Asset Register the wetlands during the summer period, when feed encompassing all its properties including Fosters levels in the paddocks are low (O’Donnell 1990). Swamp. It also has Land for Wildlife registration for Fosters Swamp. Grazing within the wetlands alters the structure of the vegetation by preventing regeneration and reducing Commercial fishing the diversity of species in the understorey. Stock also Until recently commercial fishing was permitted selectively graze palatable species, destroy under licence at Kangaroo, Reedy, Middle and Third vegetation cover used by native animals, compact, Lakes. Commercial inland fishing in Victoria has pug and erode the soils, and manure increases since been reviewed and resulted in the State nutrient concentrations. Grazing also has potential to Government buying out the remaining commercial impact on cultural site values, particularly on water Inland Fisheries Access Licences in 2002. The frontages. Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries Victoria) can still issue permits for the commercial exploitation In contrast, well managed grazing may be a useful of noxious aquatic species under section 81 of the management tool in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Fisheries Act 1995. Two commercial operators have site and may play a role in vegetation management, permits to net noxious fish, primarily carp, within a 75 controlling pest plants and animals and reducing fire km radius of their residences at and hazard. Cohuna and hence within all the wetlands in the Salt harvesting Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Site. This has the potential to improve wetland values. Given the Salt harvesting is undertaken at Lakes William, Kelly investment in stocking native fish in some of the and Little Kelly. Salt imported from Barr Creek is wetlands, methods that minimise by-catch are stored in Lakes Tutchewop, Kelly, William and Little encouraged. Kelly. It has been estimated that salt harvesting works remove 7,000 tonnes of salt per year (KLAWG 1993). 5.6 Recreation The recreational value of the Kerang Wetlands Water delivery and storage stems both from their natural ecological assets and As many as 12 wetlands within the Kerang Wetlands also from their use as part of a water supply system Ramsar site are supplied with water from the (KLAWG 1993). The wetlands provide many Torrumbarry Irrigation System, primarily for irrigation opportunities for recreational activities for both local storage and delivery purposes. The current residents and visitors. The many caravan parks, environmental values of these wetlands depend on hotels and motels in the area indicate that it is a long-established water regimes, even though the popular tourist destination. It is estimated that over regimes are not natural and the original values are 4,000 people stay in caravan parks during the often diminished. The long-term viability of current Christmas and Easter holidays. environmental values at these wetlands is closely linked to demands for irrigation supply as well as Most visitor usage is concentrated on the permanent storage management requirements. Changes to lakes. The most popular wetland areas for visitors current water regimes are likely to be proposed as are Lake Charm and Kangaroo Lake. Other irrigation needs change. Effects on Ramsar site wetlands utilised for recreation include Hird Swamp, values need to be carefully assessed before Johnson Swamp, Middle Lake and Reedy Lake. Of decisions are made. the recreational activities, the most concentrated use on the wetlands is by duck hunters during the duck Wastewater treatment open season, usually March to June (subject to pre- The EPA licences the discharge of wastes or season censuses) (NRE 2002c). wastewater from wastewater treatment plants, industries and septic tanks to surface waters and The Kerang wetlands are recognised as the most administers the State Environment Protection Policy popular duck hunting locality in Victoria. The lakes (Waters of Victoria). and waterways often support large populations of ducks, and most are open to hunting (KLAWG Lower Murray Water is responsible for urban water 1993). The Victorian Hunting Guide 2002 provides and wastewater services to a number of townships information on bag limits, proclaimed species and along the Murray, including Kerang. Fosters Swamp techniques for reducing environmental impacts. is used to store and evaporate wastewater, drainage and stormwater from Kerang. Lower Murray Water Proclaimed game (appropriate duck species) may be has an environmental management system in place hunted during the open season only, but pest

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animals may be hunted at any time on some Crown Bael, however, it is still considered a low risk to the Land. environmental and cultural values of the lake.

Duck hunting is subject to strict controls. It is 5.8 Dredging managed by DSE to ensure harvest levels for game species are set at optimum sustainable levels, in Dredging is an activity not often associated with accordance with relevant climatic and habitat inland wetlands, but in the case of Kerang Wetlands variables. it has occurred in the form of alteration of inlets and outlets at a small number of wetlands. For example, The use of lead shot in cartridges for the hunting of at Pyramid Creek dredging was undertaken to waterbirds is listed as a potentially threatening bypass Hird and Johnson Swamps and accelerate process in Schedule 3 of the Flora and Fauna delivery of irrigation water. This has caused changes Guarantee Act 1988. Birds that feed in or on the to the water regimes of the wetlands, however, most edges of wetlands including dabbling ducks (e.g. of these changes occurred some time ago and their Pacific Black Duck), deep diving ducks (e.g. Blue- impact on the current values of the wetlands is billed Duck) and predators (e.g. Whistling Kite, negligible. Swamp Harrier and White-bellied Sea-Eagle) are at risk of lead poisoning (FFG Action Statement No.32). In some cases, dredging and changes to outlet Lead shot was prohibited for duck hunting in Victoria structures may be needed to rehabilitate wetlands. in 2002 but can still be used for hunting quail, pest These works should be undertaken with safeguards animals and for clay target shooting. The extent of against short-term impacts during works. the lead contamination in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site is not known. 5.9 Fire Fire is another risk that occurs in the Kerang Region Camping on lake foreshores, particularly during the due to recreation and vandalism. In some cases duck hunting season, can have adverse impacts on local landholders may burn reeds in an attempt to the wetlands natural and cultural values. These control them. This practice is usually ineffective in the impacts include vegetation damage, soil compaction, long-term and results in direct impacts on wetland collection of firewood and issues associated with flora and fauna. Wild fires from unattended campfires rubbish disposal. Improving signage at high-use or vandalism are more frequent and have the recreational nodes would assist in raising awareness adverse impacts of destroying flora and fauna, dry of impacts associated with recreational use. organic matter (important for nutrient recycling on Recreational boating activities occur within the refilling) and woody debris (which is an important Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. Recent research structural habitat feature). demonstrates that water-skiing and high-powered boats disturb waterbirds (Paton et al. 2000). The 5.10 Land management local impacts at the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site There are uncertainties about management are poorly understood and further investigation into responsibility for some land in the Ramsar site. In the effect these activities are having on Ramsar addition, different managers are sometimes values, particularly waterbirds, is warranted. responsible for adjacent land at individual wetlands. Recreational fishing is also a key activity on many of This has led to inadequate or inconsistent the wetlands and native fish are stocked for this management of some areas. purpose. Further clarity on land tenure and management, and improved communication between respective land 5.7 Erosion managers will contribute to better management and Erosion of the banks of the rivers, lakes and allocation of resources. wetlands occurs as a result of irrigation water operations, management activities and water-based 5.11 Level of risk to Ramsar values recreation. Anecdotal evidence suggests that carp The goal of the integrated management framework may also be contributing to shoreline erosion. (incorporating the Strategic Directions Statement and Adverse impacts of erosion on the environmental corresponding Strategic Management Plans) is to value of the wetlands is considered minimal, facilitate the maintenance of ecological character at however, there is potential for cultural sites to be Victoria’s Ramsar sites by minimising risks to values. negatively impacted. In relative terms, erosion is This objective will be achieved through the considered to having the most impact at Lake Bael implementation of strategically prioritised management actions. The proposed management

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actions are prioritised according to their ability to address them. The strategic risk assessment address the identified threats or risks. approach also facilitates an understanding of the relationship between specific risks and values. The A strategic risk assessment process based on the strategic risk assessment framework draws on two broad concepts and principles of ecological risk major relevant documents: the US Environment assessment has been undertaken for the Strategic Protection Authority’s Guidelines for Ecological Risk Directions Statement and Strategic Management Assessment (1997), and the Ramsar Convention’s Plans – see Appendix 7 of Management of Victoria’s Wetland Risk Assessment (1999). Wetlands: Strategic Directions Statement (NRE 2002b). This process relied on a clear understanding To enable comparison both within and between of the range of direct and indirect pressures facing sites, the risks to the ecological character of the the wetlands, and the legislative and policy context. Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site are summarised in Table 5.1. It should be noted that the level of risk has A systematic and strategic analysis of risk provides not been assessed against the effort currently being the necessary information to site managers; and applied to mitigating the risk. facilitates priority setting, resource allocation and informed decision-making. It also provides a better A more detailed risk assessment process for the understanding of management issues. Loddon Murray Wetlands (which includes the wetlands listed in the Kerang Lakes Ramsar site) is The strategic risk assessment process has currently being undertaken. established the basis for objectively assigning higher, medium and lower priority levels to risks at Ramsar sites and the management actions designed to

Table 5.1 Level of risk at the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site

Risks

Fire Salinity Salinity regimes regimes Pollution Pollution Resource Resource utilisation utilisation Recreation Recreation Pest plants Pest animals Pest animals Altered water Altered water

Kerang Wetlands        

 Higher priority risk - risks that currently or may  Lower priority risk - risks that currently or may potentially result in the significant loss of the site’s potentially result in the minor loss of the site’s environmental values and ecological character. environmental values and ecological character.

 Medium priority risk - risks that currently or may potentially result in the moderate loss of the site’s environmental values and ecological character.

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6 Site Management Strategies

A number of Site Management Strategies have been • ensuring the regular review of Strategic developed in response to the analysis of risks to the Management Plans for Ramsar sites; values at the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. The • reporting triennially, in line with National Site Management Strategies are grouped under the Reporting commitments, to the Conference of relevant Management Objectives established by the the Contracting Parties to the Ramsar Strategic Directions Statement. Convention; and • The Site Management Strategies for Kerang the six yearly update of the Ramsar Information Wetlands promote a range of specific management Sheets for each site. actions that will maintain, and in some cases restore In order to clarify accountabilities, the lead agencies the ecological character of the site. The Site responsible for the implementation of each strategy Management Strategies are designed to: are identified. Lead agencies will monitor a) highlight existing strategies and actions that are implementation of the strategies for which they are consistent with wise use principles; and responsible. Lead agencies are encouraged to record progress on their responsibilities and extent of b) address risks that are having an adverse impact, implementation and provide information in the form or are likely to have an adverse impact on of annual summary reports to the Department of ecological character. Sustainability and Environment (DSE). This The successful coordination and cooperation of the information will be consistent with a format lead agencies as well as the continued efforts of the developed by DSE and will contribute to Victoria’s many community and interest groups, is essential for chapter in the National Report to the Convention on the long-term conservation of the Kerang Wetlands Wetlands, prepared every three years. Ramsar site. The Strategic Directions Statement, statutory mechanisms, management plans and A rating of relative priority accompanies each Site management strategies will guide the Management Strategy. Definitions of these priorities implementation of this Strategic Management Plan. are as follows:

The Department of Sustainability and Environment Higher: Strategies that, when implemented, will will have overall responsibility for: significantly contribute to the maintenance of ecological character. • facilitating the implementation of the Strategic Directions Statement and Strategic Medium: Strategies that, when implemented in Management Plans for Ramsar sites by conjunction with Higher priority strategies, will ensuring relevant agencies incorporate relevant support the maintenance and contribute to the strategies into their work programs; restoration of ecological character. • coordinating and reporting on the progress with Lower: Strategies that, when implemented in implementation of the Strategic Directions conjunction with Higher and Medium priority Statement and Strategic Management Plans for strategies, will result in enhancement of ecological Ramsar sites; character. • ensuring monitoring programs are established in accordance with the Strategic Directions Statement and Strategic Management Plans for Ramsar sites;

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Management Objective 1 Increase the scientific understanding of wetland ecosystems and their management requirements

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

1.1 Undertake and support a coordinated research program to determine more appropriate PV, DSE, water regimes for the Ramsar site based on the hydro-ecological requirements of the Higher NCCMA lakes. 1.2 Further investigate the influence of ground water and surface water interactions on lake PV, DSE, Higher water quality and biota composition. NCCMA 1.3 Measure flows into wetlands by installing gauging stations. PV, DSE Higher 1.4 Investigate specific wetland vegetation to guide appropriate rehabilitation and PV, DSE Higher revegetation that reflects individual lake variation. 1.5 Undertake further research to improve the robustness of interim guidelines for irrigation DPI Higher practices adjacent to the Ramsar wetlands. 1.6 Encourage and support further archaeological surveys of the Kerang wetlands DSE, PV Medium

Management Objective 2 Maintain or seek to restore appropriate water regimes

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

2.1 Plan for the future management of the Kerang Wetlands in light of changes to water use patterns and irrigation system management, whilst ensuring no net loss to biodiversity PV, DSE, GMW, Higher and recognising the limited capacity to fluctuate water levels in some wetlands due to the NCCMA potential for groundwater intrusion. 2.2 Continue to determine the appropriate water regime for each of the wetlands in the DSE, PV, GMW, Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site and negotiate for appropriate environmental water Higher NCCMA allocations to be able to provide these water regimes. 2.3 Review management costs for environmental bulk entitlements as part of a discussion paper on ‘Options for Providing Bulk Entitlements for the Environment’, in accordance DSE Higher with the Victorian River Health Strategy. 2.4 Where regional benefits can be sustained, maintain or restore natural surface water flows DSE, PV, GMW Higher to and from wetlands in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. 2.5 Continue a program to construct wetland inlets and outlets where necessary to manage DSE, PV, GMW, Medium water in line with approved operational plans. NCCMA 2.6 Ensure that the disposal of drainage water into the Kerang Wetlands does not adversely DSE, DPI, GMW, Medium affect their environmental values. NCCMA 2.7 In instances where drainage/channel outfalls provide a positive benefit to wetlands, DSE, DPI, GMW, ensure this flow remains until appropriate management plans are developed to address Medium NCCMA water requirements. 2.8 Ensure that there are no changes to the operation of the distribution system until proposed changes that have the potential to affect wetlands in the Ramsar site are DSE, GMW Medium assessed for their environmental impact and a strategy is in place to ameliorate any impacts to protect environmental values.

Management Objective 3 Address adverse processes and activities

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

3.1 Seek salinity disposal credits for the environment to allow for the flushing of the wetlands DSE, PV Higher in accordance with the MDBC Salinity and Drainage Strategy. 3.2 Ensure that any water savings or transfers of water are not to the detriment of environmental values or other significant environmental features of any of the wetlands in DSE, PV, DEH Higher the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. 3.3 Implement the Avoca Nutrient Management Strategy and the Loddon Catchment Water NCCMA, EPA, Higher Quality Strategy to improve water quality and reduce algal blooms in the Ramsar site. DSE

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 26

Management Objective 3 continued

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

3.4 Implement interim guidelines for irrigation practices where new development is adjacent to Ramsar wetlands. Apply the findings of further research that improves robustness of PV, Shire, DSE Higher the interim guidelines. 3.5 Ensure all applications for amending land use and development in water catchments surrounding Ramsar-listed wetlands are referred to the CMA, DSE, GMW and PV to Shire Higher ensure potential impacts are identified and appropriately addressed. 3.6 Ensure the requirements of the EPBC Act 1999 (Cwlth) are met with regard to DEH Higher development proposals that may impact on the ecological character of the Ramsar site. 3.7 Clarify the roles and responsibilities of reserve management with respect to the land and water components (including Committees of Management), and seek agreement DSE Higher with all parties as to these roles and responsibilities. 3.8 Develop and implement a pest plant and animal action plan for each of the wetlands within the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site and have completed activities regularly PV, DSE, Shire, Higher reported to a central coordinating agency. Clearly define who is responsible for GMW implementing management action plans. 3.9 Develop and implement the Kerang Lakes Wetlands Flooding Planner annually to NCCMA, GMW, establish how storage levels and flood flows are managed within the Kerang Wetlands Higher DSE catchment. 3.10 Investigate options for the removal of accumulating salt in the Tutchewop Lakes salinity MDBC, DSE, disposal system and ensure impacts and benefits on Ramsar values are considered in Medium DPI, GMW the assessment of options. 3.11 Implement the State Environment Protection Policy (Waters of Victoria) as it relates to EPA, LMW, water quality in the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site and ensure waste and sewage Medium DSE, NCCMA discharges are appropriately licensed and licences complied with. 3.12 Undertake a risk assessment on the potential impact of aquatic weeds on the ecological DSE, PV, GMW Medium character of the Ramsar site. 3.13 Identify municipal planning issues related to land use change and development and take a strategic approach to planning to protect wetland values from potential adverse DSE, PV, Shire Medium effects of land use and development. 3.14 Where practical reduce disturbance by carp (e.g. in wetlands where water is delivered install carp screens on regulators). Investigate other methods of control where carp PV, DSE, GMW Medium screens are not practical 3.15 Consistent with the Regional Floodplain Management Strategy, review the impacts of DSE, PV, Medium levees and drains within the Loddon Murray Region on significant wetlands. NCCMA, GMW 3.16 Undertake rehabilitation of the former Kerang landfill (now a Waste Transfer Station) Shire Medium including testing to determine whether leachate poses a threat to Cemetery Swamp. 3.17 Encourage and manage appropriate land use activities adjacent to the wetlands. Shire, DPI, DSE Medium

Management Objective 4 Manage within an integrated catchment management framework

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

4.1 Ensure this strategic management plan is recognised in the North Central Regional Catchment Strategy planning and implementation framework and catchment plans NCCMA Higher complement this plan to promote the protection of Ramsar site values. 4.2 Ensure environmental values of the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site are considered NCCMA, PV, when developing new or implementing existing land management plans and Higher DSE, Shire strategies. 4.3 Continue to develop and implement the North Central Regional Catchment Strategy DSE, NCCMA, and subsidiary plans to combat the adverse effects of rising water tables, poor water Higher GMW, Shire quality and land salinisation. 4.4 Utilise the wetland prioritisation framework developed by the Loddon Murray Irrigation DSE, PV, GMW, Region Co-ordination Forum Technical Management Group to ensure that future Higher Shire, NCCMA works/strategies are in line with agreed priorities.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 27

Management Objective 4 continued

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

4.5 Prepare management plans for individual priority wetlands that follow the priorities of DSE, PV, Higher the Loddon Murray Land and Water Management Strategy 2002. NCCMA 4.6 Ensure pest plant and animal control efforts are coordinated across land tenures. DPI Higher

Management Objective 5 Manage resource utilisation on a sustainable basis

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

5.1 Review grazing licence management arrangements to ensure they are consistent with DSE, PV, GMW Higher land management responsibilities and Ramsar site management objectives. 5.2 Undertake trials to determine appropriate grazing regimes for maintaining and PV, DSE, GMW Higher enhancing environmental values and review results for broader applicability. 5.3 Review licensed grazing in areas where it can be demonstrated that it has resulted in PV, GMW, DSE, Higher the loss of the site’s Ramsar values. NCCMA

5.4 Develop and manage the irrigation system to maintain or improve environmental GMW, DSE, DPI, Higher outcomes in line with the Loddon Murray Land and Water Management Strategy. NCCMA

5.5 Continue to manage duck hunting sustainably. DSE, PV Higher 5.6 Continue to manage recreational fishing sustainably. DPI Higher

Management Objective 6 Protection, and where appropriate enhance, ecosystem processes, habitats and species

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

6.1 Use the risk assessment process in the wetland prioritisation framework developed by the Loddon Murray Irrigation Region Co-ordination Forum Technical Management PV, GMW, DPI, Group to document in detail the current environmental values and management risks DSE, NCCMA, Higher for each wetland in the Ramsar site. Identify individual environmental values that need Shire protecting and enhancing and establish risk management protocols. 6.2 Protect and enhance native remnant vegetation around lake boundaries. PV, DSE, NCCMA, GMW, Higher Shire 6.3 Protect important habitat for migratory waders and species listed in appendices to PV, DSE, GMW Higher JAMBA, CAMBA and the Bonn Convention. 6.4 Manage flora and fauna in accordance with management plan priorities, management PV, DSE, GMW Medium agreements, FFG Action Statements and CAMBA and JAMBA agreements.

Management Objective 7 Encourage strong partnerships between management agencies

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

7.1 Involve local Aboriginal people in all facets of Ramsar site management, consistent with the Strategies Agreement for Indigenous Involvement in Land and Water Management (VCMC 2003) and the Indigenous Partnership Strategy. Ensure ongoing DSE, AAV, PV Higher consultation with the local Indigenous communities during management and annual program planning for the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar site. 7.2 Consult with local Aboriginal people to ensure that other site management strategies in DSE, DPI, AAV, Higher this plan do not adversely impact on Aboriginal cultural heritage values. PV 7.3 Continue ongoing engagement with local Indigenous communities in the management DSE, DPI, PV Higher of Aboriginal cultural heritage values. 7.4 Support the structure of the Loddon Murray Land and Water Management Strategy PV, DPI, GMW, (LMLWMS) implementation committee (including a Technical Working Group and Shire, NCCMA, Higher Executive Officers Committee) in order to foster a consistent and integrated regional DSE, DEH approach to the management of wetlands in the area.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 28

Management Objective 7 continued

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

7.5 Clarify land management responsibilities for all land in the Ramsar site and improve PV, DPI, DSE, cooperation between land managers to ensure consistent management of adjacent GMW, Shire, Higher areas. Where opportunities arise rationalise the current land tenure arrangements (e.g. NCCMA Lake Charm) in order to simplify land manager responsibilities. 7.6 Facilitate continued development and understanding of roles and responsibilities of PV, DSE, GMW, agencies for all aspects of management by developing a communication procedure of Higher Shire, NCCMA activities between agencies, including an accountability auditing process. 7.7 Encourage Committees of Management to manage wetlands in an environmentally PV, Shire, GMW, Higher sustainable manner and to develop and report on a plan of activities. DSE 7.8 Determine a lead agency that will be responsible for ensuring that wetland management plans for individual wetlands in the Kerang Lakes Area are being DSE, DPI Higher successfully implemented.

Management Objective 8 Promote community awareness and understanding and provide opportunities for involvement in management

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

8.1 Review opportunities for improved education and interpretive services. PV, DPI, DSE, Higher Shire 8.2 Promote community participation in wetland management including habitat protection PV, DSE, DPI Higher and enhancement works. 8.3 Promote greater understanding, awareness and protection of the Kerang Wetlands in PV, DSE, DPI, extension and voluntary programs to landholders and to the community (e.g. Landcare LMW, NCCMA, Higher and Waterwatch), through the provision of educational and promotional material. Shire 8.4 Identify opportunities and encourage community involvement in environmental PV, DSE, Medium monitoring activities (e.g. Waterwatch). NCCMA 8.5 Develop and implement a communication strategy that identifies a range of informative DSE, PV Medium material about the Kerang Wetlands that is suitable for a wide range of user groups.

Management Objective 9 Ensure recreational use is consistent with the protection of natural and cultural values

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

9.1 In consultation with local Aboriginal communities, identify, protect and manage, where appropriate, sites of Aboriginal archaeological and historical interest and significance. DSE, DPI, PV, Ensure this is done in accordance with Commonwealth and State legislation and in Higher AAV consultation with Aboriginal communities appointed under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Heritage Protection Act 1984 and Aboriginal Affairs Victoria. 9.2 Continue to restrict access to areas within the Ramsar sites where rare or threatened DSE, PV, GMW Higher species are breeding. 9.3 Encourage minimal impact from water-skiers on wetland habitats and disturbance to DSE, GMW, PV Medium wildlife by protecting sensitive areas. 9.4 Encourage visitors to practice minimal impact techniques and to adhere to recreational DSE, GMW, PV Lower codes of conduct and laws governing these activities. 9.5 Improve signage to assist in reducing impacts associated with recreational activities (e.g. hunting in the Marshes) and to protect people engaged in such activities (e.g. PV, GMW, DSE Lower when there are algal blooms in high value recreation facilities). 9.6 Encourage minimal impact recreation to promote the values of the wetlands and PV, DSE Lower increase community interest and involvement in their protection and enhancement.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 29

Management Objective 10 Develop ongoing consistent programs to monitor ecological character

Site Management Strategy Lead agency Priority

10.1 Develop an ongoing, consistent and well-designed program to monitor the ecological character of the Ramsar site. The program should allow for appropriate statistical DSE, PV, analysis, based on predefined reporting objectives. Factors such as water height, salinity, Higher NCCMA nutrients, algae (including blue-green algae), flora and fauna (including macroinvertebrates) should be measured and results recorded in appropriate databases. 10.2 Monitor the effectiveness of rehabilitation, revegetation and habitat protection works. DSE, PV, Higher NCCMA 10.3 Monitor the effectiveness of the Ramsar plan with respect to protection and enhancement of ecological, social and cultural values of the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar DPI, PV Higher sites. 10.4 Continue to implement a program of regular bird counts in conjunction with Birds DSE, PV Higher Australia and other relevant groups. 10.5 Record fauna species usage of the Kerang Wetlands and provide data to update DSE, PV Higher relevant Victorian databases.

Lead agency key:

AAV Aboriginal Affairs Victoria (Department for Victorian Communities)

DOI Department of Infrastructure

DPI Department of Primary Industries

DSE Department of Sustainability and Environment

DEH Department of Environment and Heritage

GMW Goulburn-Murray Water

LMW Lower Murray Water

MDBC Murray-Darling Basin Commission

NCCMA North Central Catchment Management Authority

PV Parks Victoria

Shire Shire of Gannawarra

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 30

References

Corrick, A. H. and Norman, F. I. (1980) Wetlands Department of Sustainability and Environment of Victoria. In: Wetlands and Waterbirds of the (2003c) Securing Our Water Future: Green Paper Snowy River and catchments. for Discussion. Department of Sustainability and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Victoria 91:1- Environment. Victoria. 15. Environment Australia (2001) A Directory of Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands Important Wetlands in Australia, Third Edition. (1988) Wetlands Conservation Program for Environment Australia, Canberra. Victoria, Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands, Victoria. Hewish, M. (1989) Waterfowl count in Victoria, February 1988. RAOU Report No. 52. Prepared for Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Conservation, Forests and Environment (2001) The Value of Water: A Guide Lands. to Water Trading in Victoria. Department of Natural Resources and Environment. East Melbourne. Kerang Lakes Area Working Group (1993) Kerang Lakes Area Salinity Management Plan. Plan Department of Natural Resources and prepared by the Kerang Lakes Area Working Environment (2001) Indigenous Partnerships Group. Strategy. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria. Koehn, J. D., Gehrke, P.C. and Brumley, A. R. (2000) Managing the Impacts of Carp, Bureau of Department of Natural Resources and Rural Sciences, Canberra. Environment (2002a) ‘Groundwater Occurrence in the Murray Basin’, Groundwater Notes, GW0006. Land Conservation Council (1985) Final Department of Natural Resources and Recommendations: Murray Valley area. Land Environment, Melbourne. Conservation Council, Melbourne, Victoria.

Department of Natural Resources and Land Conservation Council (1989) Area Environment (2002b) Management of Victoria’s Review: Final Recommendations. Land Ramsar Wetlands: Strategic Directions Statement. Conservation Council, Melbourne, Victoria. Department of Natural Resources and Lloyd, L. N. (1990) Ecological interactions of Environment, Melbourne. Gambusia holbrooki with Australian native fish. In: Department of Natural Resources and Pollard, D.A. ASFB Workshop on introduced and Environment (2002c) Victorian Hunting Guide translocated fishes and their ecological effects. 2002. Department of Natural Resources and Bureau of Rural Resources Proceedings No. 8, Environment, Game Management Unit, Victoria. AGPS Press, Canberra.

Department of Natural Resources and Lloyd, L. N., Atkins, B. P., Boon, P. I., Roberts, J. Environment (2002d) Victorian River Health and Jacobs, T. (1993) Natural Processes in Strategy. Department of Natural Resources and floodplain ecosystems. In: Proceedings of the Environment, Victoria. Murray-Darling Basin Floodplain Wetlands Management Workshop. Murray-Darling Basin Department of Natural Resources and Commission, Canberra. Environment (2002e) Victoria’s Native Vegetation Management – A framework for Action. Mackay, N. J. and Eastburn, D. (1990) The Department of Natural Resources and Murray. Murray-Darling Basin Commission, Environment, Victoria. Canberra.

Department of Sustainability and Environment Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council (2001) (2003a) Atlas of Victorian Wildlife. Department of Basin Salinity Management Strategy 2001-2015. Sustainability and Environment, Victoria. Murray-Darling Basin Ministerial Council, Canberra. Department of Sustainability and Environment (2003b) Flora Information System. Department of Sustainability and Environment, Victoria.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 31

North Central Catchment Management Authority Peter, J. (1989) Waterfowl count in Victoria, (1997) Loddon Murray Regional Rural Partnership February 1989. RAOU Report No. 57. Prepared for Program for a Sustainable Economy Beyond 2000. the Department of Conservation, Forests and North Central Catchment Management Authority, Land. Huntly. Peter, J. (1990) Waterfowl Count in Victoria, North Central Catchment Management Authority February 1990. RAOU Report No. 72. Prepared for (2000) Regional Floodplain Management Strategy. the Department of Conservation, Forests and North Central Catchment Management Authority, Land. Huntly. Ramsar Convention Bureau (1997) The Ramsar North Central Catchment Management Authority Convention Manual: a Guide to the Convention on (2002a) Avoca Nutrient Management Strategy. Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971), 2nd ed. Ramsar North Central Catchment Management Authority, Convention Bureau, Gland, Switzerland. Huntly. Savage, G. and McNeill, J. (2003) Irrigation North Central Catchment Management Authority Guidelines for Wetlands Conservation in the (2002b) Draft Loddon Catchment Water Quality Loddon-Murray region. Centre for Land Protection Strategy. North Central Catchment Management Research Report No. 34. Department of Primary Authority, Huntly. Industries.

North Central Catchment Management Authority Victorian Catchment Management Council (2003) (2002c) Loddon Murray Land and Water Strategies Agreement for Indigenous Involvement Management Strategy. North Central Catchment in Land and Water Management. Victorian Management Authority, Huntly. Catchment Management Council. Melbourne.

O’Donnell, T. (1990) Vegetation of the Wetlands in the Kerang Lakes Area. Report to Kerang Lakes Area Working Group.

Paton, D. C., Ziembicki, M., Owen, P. and Heddle, C. (2000) Disturbance Distances for Water Birds and the Management of Human Recreation with Special Reference to the Coorong Region of South Australia. Final report for the Migratory Waterbird Component of the National Wetlands Program, Environment Australia, Canberra.

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 32

Appendix 1 List of Contributors

Multi-disciplinary Project Team members

Kate Maltby Conservation Strategy Officer, Mark Tscharke Ranger in Charge, Kerang Conservation Division, Parks Parks Victoria Victoria Janet Holmes Senior Policy Officer, Tony Long Chief Environmental Ranger, Department of Sustainability and Environment Central Region, Parks Victoria

Roy Speechley Senior Project Officer, Central Region, Parks Victoria

Local Reference Group members

Andrea Joyce Wetland Co-ordinator, North John Ginnivan Manager, Natural Resources West Region, Department of (Kerang), Goulburn-Murray Sustainability and Environment Water

Merryn Kelly Senior Policy Officer, Rohan Hogan North Central Catchment Department of Sustainability Management Authority and Environment Steven Walsh Director, Planning and Rob Price Manager Flora and Fauna, Infrastructure, Shire of North West Region, Gannawarra Department of Sustainability and Environment John McCurdy Development Approvals Officer, Shire of Gannawarra Greg Turner Leader of Environment Team, North Central Region, Colin Campbell Lower Murray Water Department of Sustainability

and Environment

Project Consultants

Dr Suzanne Moore ECOS Environmental Consulting Lance Lloyd Lloyd Environmental Consultants

Public Submissions

Australasian Wader Studies Group Marshall S and S

Birds Australia Soren, J

Bird Observers Club of Australia Swan Hill Rural City Council

Coalition Against Duck Shooting Wehner, B (Parks Victoria, Shepparton)

Department of Natural Resources and Tscharke, M (Parks Victoria, Kerang) Environment VRFish - Fish for the Future Department of Environment and Heritage

Goulburn-Murray Water

Lower Murray Water

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Appendix 2 Threatened Status of Flora

Common name Scientific name FFG Listed Status in Status in Victoria Australia

Australian Millet Panicum decompositum k Brown Beetle-grass Leptochloa fusca ssp. fusca r Bundled Peppercress Lepidium fasciculatum k Forde Poa Poa fordeana k Matted Water-starwort Callitriche sonderi k Native Couch Cynodon dactylon var. pulchellus k Sickle Love-grass Eragrostis falcata k Six-point Arrowgrass Triglochin hexagonum v Small Monkey-flower Mimulus prostratus r Spiny Lignum Muehlenbeckia horrida ssp. horrida k Spreading Emu-bush Eremophila divaricata ssp. divaricata r Sweet Fenugreek Trigonella suavissima r Twin-leaf Bedstraw Asperula gemella r Umbrella Wattle Acacia oswaldii v Waterbush Myoporum montanum r Source: Victorian Flora Information System DSE (2003b) FFG Listed Status in Australia under the EPBC Act 1999 L Listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee CE A native species is eligible to be included in the Act 1988 critically endangered category at a particular time if, at that time, it is facing an extremely A An action statement has been prepared for the high risk of extinction in the wild in the management of this species. immediate future, as determined in accordance Status in Victoria with the prescribed criteria. e Endangered in Victoria, i.e. rare and at risk of E A native species is eligible to be included in the disappearing from the wild state if present land endangered category at a particular time if, at use and other causal factors continue. that time: (a)it is not critically endangered; and v Vulnerable in Victoria, i.e. rare, not presently (b)it is facing a very high risk of extinction in the endangered but likely to become so soon due wild in the near future, as determined in to continued depletion, or which largely occur accordance with the prescribed criteria. on sites likely to experience changes in land use which threaten the survival of the species. V A native species is eligible to be included in the vulnerable category at a particular time if, at r Plants which are rare in Victoria but which are that time: not considered otherwise threatened. This (a)it is not critically endangered or endangered; category indicates relatively few known stands. and (b)it is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild k species poorly known, suspected of being in in the medium-term future, as determined in one of the above categories. accordance with the prescribed criteria.

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Appendix 3 Threatened Status of Fauna

Status in Common name Scientific name FFG Listed Status in Victoria Australia

Birds

Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis Vul

Baillon's Crake Porzana pusilla L Vul

Black Falcon Falco subniger Vul

Black-chinned Honeyeater Melithreptus gularis LR

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Vul

Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis L End

Brolga Grus rubicunda L Vul

Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophora LR

Brown Treecreeper Climacteris picumnus LR

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia L LR

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Vul

Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis LR

Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa L, A End

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus LR

Great Egret Ardea alba L Vul

Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris L End

Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii Vul

Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucos L End

Gull-billed Tern Sterna nilotica L End

Hardhead Aythya australis Vul

Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata L LR

Intermediate Egret Ardea intermedia L CEn

Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii LR

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus L End

Little Button-quail Turnix velox LR

Little Egret Egretta garzetta L End

Long-toed Stint Calidris subminuta DD

Magpie Goose Anseranas semipalmata Vul

Musk Duck Biziura lobata Vul

Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus LR

Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva LR

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Status in Common name Scientific name FFG Listed Status in Victoria Australia

Birds continued

Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis L CEn

Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius LR

Plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus L, A CEn V

Red Knot Calidris canutus LR

Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia Vul

Sanderling Calidris alba LR

Spotted Harrier Circus assimilis LR

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus LR

White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster L, A Vul

White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus LR

Reptiles

Carpet Python Morelia spilota metcalfei L End

Tree Goanna Varanus varius Vul

Amphibians

Warty Bell Frog Litoria raniformis L End V

Fish

Flat-headed Galaxias Galaxias rostratus L# DD

Freshwater Catfish Tandanus tandanus L, L# End

Golden Perch Macquaria ambigua L# Vul

Macquarie Perch Macquaria australasica L, L# End CE

Murray Cod Maccullochella peelii peelii L, L# End V

Murray Hardyhead Craterocephalus fluviatilis L, L# CEn V

Silver Perch Bidyanus bidyanus L, L# CEn

Unspecked Hardyhead Craterocephalus L, L# stercusmuscarum fulvus

Source: Atlas of Victorian Wildlife DSE (2003a)

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FFG Listed Status in Australia under the EPBC Act 1999 L Listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee CE A native species is eligible to be included in the Act 1988. critically endangered category at a particular time if, at that time, it is facing an extremely L# Listed under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee high risk of extinction in the wild in the Act 1988 as part of the Lowland Riverine Fish immediate future, as determined in accordance Community of the Southern Murray-Darling with the prescribed criteria. Basin. E A native species is eligible to be included in the A An action statement has been prepared for the endangered category at a particular time if, at management of this species. that time: (a)it is not critically endangered; and Status in Victoria (b)it is facing a very high risk of extinction in the CEn Critically Endangered: A taxon that is facing an wild in the near future, as determined in extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in accordance with the prescribed criteria. the immediate future. V A native species is eligible to be included in the vulnerable category at a particular time if, at End Endangered: A taxon that is not Critically that time: Endangered but is facing a very high risk of (a)it is not critically endangered or endangered; extinction in the wild in the immediate future. and Vul Vulnerable: A taxon that is not Critically (b)it is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild Endangered or Endangered but is facing a in the medium-term future, as determined in high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium- accordance with the prescribed criteria. term future. LR Lower Risk – near threatened: A taxon that has been evaluated, does not satisfy the criteria for any of the threatened categories, but which is close to qualifying for Vulnerable. In practice, these species are most likely to move into a threatened category should current declines continue or catastrophes befall the species. DD Data Deficient - A taxon where there is inadequate information to make a direct or indirect assessment of its risk of extinction based on its distribution or population status. Listing of taxa in this category indicates that more information is required and acknowledges the possibility that future investigation will show that a threatened classification is appropriate. Status in Australia under the EPBC Act 1999

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Appendix 4 JAMBA, CAMBA and Bonn Species

Common name Scientific name JAMBA CAMBA Bonn Australasian Shoveler Anas rhynchotis  Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides  Black Kite Milvus migrans  Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa    Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus  Blue-billed Duck Oxyura australis  Caspian Tern Sterna caspia   Chestnut Teal Anas castanea  Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia    Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos    Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea    Eastern Curlew Numenius madagascariensis    Fork-tailed Swift Apus pacificus   Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa  Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus   Great Egret Ardea alba   Greater Sand Plover Charadrius leschenaultii    Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucos  Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis    Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles  Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa  Pink-eared Duck Malacorhynchus membranaceus  Plumed Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna eytoni  Red Knot Calidris canutus    Red-capped Plover Charadrius ruficapillus  Red-kneed Dotterel Erythrogonys cinctus  Red-necked Avocet Recurvirostra novaehollandiae  Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis    Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres    Sanderling Calidris alba    Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata    Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax  White-bellied Sea-Eagle Haliaeetus leucogaster   White-winged Black Tern Chlidonias leucopterus    Source: Atlas of Victorian Wildlife DSE (2003a)

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Appendix 5 Resource List for Kerang Wetlands

Further reading: North Central Catchment Management Authority, Sinclair Knight Merz (1999) Swan Hill Regional Regional Management Plan 2001-2002. Flood Strategy, Completion Phase, Consultation Unpublished. and Review Group to Community. Unpublished report. Loddon Murray Land and Water Management Strategy (2002). Department of Natural Resources and North Central Catchment Management Authority, Environment (2002) Ecological Assessment of Avoca Whole of Catchment Plan 2000-2002. Future Management Options for the Tutchewop Unpublished. Lakes. Department of Natural Resources and Environment. North Central Catchment Management Authority (1997) Loddon Murray Regional Rural Partnership Department of Natural Resources and Program for a Sustainable Economy Beyond 2000. Environment (2002) Management of Victoria’s North Central Catchment Management Authority, Wetlands: Strategic Directions Statement. Huntly. Department of Natural Resources and Environment, Victoria. North Central Catchment Management Authority, Loddon Whole of Catchment Plan 2000-2002. Sinclair Knight Merz (1999a) Lake Tutchewop Unpublished. Sustainability: Projections of Physical Conditions to North Central Catchment Management Authority the Tutchewop Lakes, Background Document. (2000) Regional Floodplain Management Strategy. Report to the Department of Natural Resources North Central Catchment Management Authority, and Environment. Unpublished. Huntly. Sinclair Knight Merz (1999b) Lake Tutchewop North Central Catchment Management Authority Sustainability: Projections of Physical Conditions to (2002) Draft North Central Native Vegetation Plan the Tutchewop Lakes, Supplementary Document. 2000 Department of Natural Resources and Report to the Department of Natural Resources Environment, Huntly. and Environment. Unpublished. North Central Catchment Management Authority

(2002) Avoca Nutrient Management Strategy, North Central Catchment Management Authority, Huntly

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Appendix 5 continued

Contacts for further information and collaboration:

• Allinjarra Aboriginal Association Inc. • Latrobe University (Environment Section, • Bendigo Field and Game Science Department) • • Bendigo Field Naturalists Loddon Shire Council • • Bendigo Regional Institute of TAFE Macorna Landcare Group • • Benjeroop Landcare Group Melbourne University • • Bird Observers Club of Australia (Echuca Mid Murray Field Naturalists Branch) • Landcare Group • Birds Australia • Murray-Darling Association • Campaspe Shire Council • Murray-Darling Basin Commission • Central Highlands Waterwatch c/o Creswick • and District Landcare Group Landcare Centre • North Central Catchment Management • Deakin University Authority • Echuca Moama Field and Game Association • North Central Waterwatch c/- NCCMA • Fairley Bael Bael Landcare Group • North West Region Aboriginal Cultural • Gannawarra Shire Council Heritage • • Goulburn-Murray Water Trust for Nature - North Central • • Greening Australia University of Ballarat • • Kerang Landcare Group Victorian Apiarists Association • • Koroop/Gannawarra Landcare Group Victoria National Parks Association (VNPA) • • Lake Charm Landcare Group Wandella Landcare Group • Lake Charm Yacht Club

Related Websites: www.ramsar.org www.parkweb.vic.gov.au www.dse.vic.gov.au www.deh.gov.au

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Appendix 6 Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Information Sheet1

Information Sheet on Ramsar Wetlands wetland characteristic of the appropriate biogeographical region. Categories approved by Recommendation 4.7 of the Conference of the Contracting Parties. The Kerang Wetlands are a particularly good 1. Date this sheet was completed/updated: example of a diverse system of inland wetlands in the biogeographic region. May 1999 2. Country: 1(b) The wetland is a particularly good Australia representative example of a natural or near-natural 3. Name of wetland: wetland common to more than one Kerang Wetlands, Victoria biogeographical region. 4. Geographical coordinates: The Kerang Wetlands are a particularly good ° ° Latitude: (approx) 35 30' to 35 50'S example of diverse systems of inland lakes and Longitude: (approx) 143° 42' to 144° 10'E swamps associated with river floodplains in the 5. Altitude: Murray-Darling Basin. Approx 80 metres 2(b) A wetland is of special value for maintaining 6. Area: the genetic and ecological diversity of a region 9,419 hectares because of the quality and peculiarities of its flora Note: This is a revised area figure based on GIS and fauna. Mapping (1995) and does not represent any change to the Ramsar Site boundary. Kerang wetlands are of special value because it supports a high diversity and abundance of 7. Overview: waterfowl species (Lugg et al. 1989). It also The Kerang wetlands are a system of lakes and supports a large number of native plant species swamps that differ widely in permanence, depth, including a community of Tangled Lignum salinity and amounts of aquatic vegetation. The shrubland that is under represented in Victoria wetlands are important waterbird habitats. They wetland reserves (O’Donnell 1990). support large populations of some common endemic Australian species and they also provide 3(a) Regularly supports 20,000 waterfowl habitat for migratory species listed under the Wetlands in the Ramsar site regularly support Japan-Australia and the China-Australia Migratory more than 20,000 waterfowl, including large Birds Agreements. numbers of ducks, eurasian coot, cormorants, Australian pelicans and ibis (up to 11,000 straw- 8. Wetland Type: necked ibis at Hird Swamp and 3,300 at Johnson’s Inland: O, Q, Tp and Ts. Swamp). Many wetlands support large numbers of 9. Ramsar Criteria: hoary-headed Grebes (6,500 at Lake Cullen), ibis 1a, 1b, 2b, 3a, 3b, and 3c. and waders (ANCA 1996). Please specify the most significant criterion 3(b) Regularly supports substantial numbers of applicable to the site waterfowl from particular groups. 10. Map of site included? Most of the Kerang Wetlands support significant No map included. numbers of ducks including Grey Teal (up to 85,00 11. Name and address of the compiler of Grey Teal at Lake Cullen), black duck (up to this form: Parks Victoria 11,000 at Lake Cullen, 3,000 at Hird Swamp, 378 Cotham Road 2,000 at Johnson’s Swamp), Australian Shelduck Kew VIC 3101 Australia (up to 4,500 at Lake Bael Bael, 8,000 at Lake 12. Justification of the criteria selected Cullen), pink-eared Duck (up to 5,000 at Lake under point 9: Cullen) and Australasian shoveler (up to 2,400 at 1(a) The wetland is a particularly good Lake Cullen) (ANCA 1996). representative example of a natural or near-natural

1 Ramsar Information Sheets are updated every six years. The last update was in 1999. New or revised information will be incorporated in the next update, due in 2005.

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Lake Cullen has supported up to 44,000 eurasian Disposal Reserves (Lake Kelly, Lake William and coot (ANCA 1996). Lake Tutchewop)

Third, Middle and Reedy lakes and Hird and 16. Ecological features: Johnson’s Swamps are important for straw-necked The deep permanent freshwater lakes generally and white ibis (see below). support a sparse aquatic vegetation apart from a narrow fringe of Typha spp. The shallow seasonal 3(c ) Regularly supports 1% on the individuals in a population of one species or subspecies. wetlands have the most diverse vegetation. These wetlands often support an over-storey of trees (red Third, Middle and Reedy lakes have supported gum and/or black box), an understorey of shrubs more than 10% of the regional breeding population (lignum) and ground layers of grasses and herbs. of Straw-necked Ibis and Australian White Ibis and During prolonged flooding an aquatic and semi- more than 5% of the Victorian breeding population aquatic flora develops, with rushes, sedges, of Royal Spoonbill (ANCA 1996). pondweeds, milfoils, azollas and duckweeds Internationally significant numbers of banded stilts becoming common. have been recorded at Lake Cullen (6,500) and Semi-permanent freshwater swamps such as Lake William (3,000) (Watkins 1993). Hird’s and Johnson’s Swamps are dominated by 13. General location: vegetation, including cumbungi (Typha spp.), pondweeds, milfoils, eel-grass, floating duck- Lower reaches of the Avoca and Loddon Rivers weeds and azollas. and the Pyramid Creek near Kerang in northern Victoria. Saline wetlands are dominated by sea tassel 14. Physical features: (Ruppia spp.) and alga (Characea). These species are abundant at the lower salinities (e.g. 10,000 - Much of the Kerang Lakes area consists of Tertiary 30,000 EC) but become progressively less alluvium, some being overlain by Quaternary common up to 100,000 EC (i.e. in hypersaline alluvium from the Avoca and Loddon Rivers. wetlands). Lunettes (Quaternary aeolian deposits) occur on the eastern flanks of many of the wetlands. These The diversity of wetland type and the associated plus the adjacent lakes represent small localised diversity of vegetation types present a wide range land systems upon the broad alluvial plains. The of habitats for waterbirds. lake sediments are grey, often saline calcareous clays, while the lunette deposits are finely textured 17. Noteworthy flora: duplex soils of red sands and calcareous clays. Acacia oswaldii (umbrella wattle) - depleted in Soil erosion and salting are common problems Victoria.

The region has a 'semi-arid' climate, with an annual Present in black box and tangled lignum vegetation rainfall of less than 400 mm. Summers are typically communities of Lake Bael Bael. hot and winters mild. Rainfall mainly occurs as low intensity winter falls, the remainder is largely via Asperula gemella (twin-leaf bedstraw) - vulnerable irregular summer storms. in Victoria.

The individual shallow swamps and lakes of this Present in periodically flooded situations in red system range in salinity from freshwater marshes gum, black box and tangled lignum communities of to highly saline lakes. Permanent wetlands are the Third Lake, Town Swamp and Cemetery Swamp. dominant type within the area. This is due to a Muehlenbeckia horrida (spiny lignum) - rare in constantly available water supply - irrigation quality Victoria. water in the supply lakes and drainage water in the saline lakes and evaporation basins. Water depths Restricted to clay soils. Found mainly in open vary from very shallow, i.e. less than 1 metre, to in chenopod shrublands, but also in Red Gum, Black excess of 8 metres. Kangaroo Lake is the deepest Box and dry grassland communities. Reedy Lake, lake at 8.4 metres. Middle Lake, Little Lake Charm, Racecourse Lake, 15. Hydrological values: Kangaroo Lake, Lake Charm and Cullen's Lake Eight of the wetlands are Water Supply Reserves Ranunculus undosus (swamp buttercup) - (Reedy Lake, Middle Lake, Third Lake, Little Lake vulnerable in Victoria. Charm, Lake Charm, Racecourse Lake, Kangaroo Found in swamp margins and in drainage lines, in Lake and Cullen's Lake) and three are Salinity shallow water and wet or drying mud. Restricted to

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areas of regular shallow flooding. Within reedbed, Cynodon dactylon var. pulchellus (native couch) - Tangled Lignum or wet grassland (herbfield) insufficiently known in Victoria communities of Reedy Lake, Town Common (Back 18. Noteworthy fauna: Swamp) and Town Swamp. The lakes with flooded forest, reedbeds or tangled Callitris columellaris (white cypress pine) and lignum are important breeding areas for waterbirds Allocasuarina leuhmanii (buloke) - both depleted in (e.g. Middle Lake and Hird Swamp regularly Victoria. contain more than 1000 nesting straw-necked and sacred Ibis; Second and Third Marsh support These have highly depleted distributions in the breeding colonies of pied, little pied, black and little Kerang Lakes area. Formerly with extensive black cormorants, darter, yellow and royal spoonbill coverage across the plains, these species have and high densities of hollow nesting waterfowl.) been heavily cleared, and are now limited to a few During summer and particularly during drought locations. Most individuals remaining are large flocks of waterfowl concentrate on the more overmature, with little chance of regeneration due open lakes (e.g. Cullens Lake 100000 Hardhead in to high intensity grazing. Both species are found at 1975, 70000 Grey Teal in 1988). Migratory waders Lake Bael Bael. White Cypress Pine is also found are common around saline lakes. A number of at Kangaroo Lake and Buloke is also found at waders species seen rarely in Victoria have been Cullen's Lake. recorded.

Species of Significant Environmental Value: Bony bream (Nematolos erebi) is a rare fish Species such as red gum (Eucalyptus species in Victoria. In the Kerang wetlands, this fish camaldulensis) and black box (E. largiflorens) are is found in Kangaroo Lake, Lake Bael Bael and important in that they provide a habitat capable of Lake Charm. supporting a range of flora and fauna. Tangled Threatened bird species: Lignum (Muehlenbeckia cunninghamii) is the major nesting site for ibis (Threskiornis spp.), an • Darter (Anhinga melanogaster) - restricted abundant bird of the Kerang Lakes area. colonial breeding in Victoria Reedbeds of Cumbungi (Typha spp.) and common • Great Egret (Ardea alba) - restricted colonial reed (Phragmites australis) are also significant, breeding in Victoria providing important habitat for birds such as the • Whiskered Tern (Childonias hybridus) - Clamorous Reed Warbler (Acrocephalum restricted colonial breeding in Victoria stentoreus). Black-seeded glasswort (Halosarcia • Grey Falcon (Falco hypoleucos) - vulnerable pergranulata ssp. pergranulata) is the major plant in Victoria capable of dominating saline soils in the Kerang Lakes area; without it, problems of erosion and • Black Falcon (Falco subniger) - rare in Victoria environmental degradation would be much worse. • White-bellied Sea-Eagle (Haliaeetus Sea tassel (Ruppia spp.) is the only aquatic leucogaster) - rare in Victoria macrophyte to dominate saline lakes; without it, the • Eastern Curlew (Numenius potential of these lakes to support a diverse fauna madagascariensis) - rare in Victoria is markedly diminished. • Blue-billed Duck (Oxyura australis) - rare in Additional threatened species: Victoria • Plains Wanderer (Pedionomus torquatus) - Eragrostis falcata (sickle love-grass) - rare in vulnerable in Victoria and nationally Victoria • Pied Cormorant (Phalacrocorax varius) - Panicum decompositum (Australian millet) - rare in restricted colonial breeding in Victoria Victoria • Royal Spoonbill (Platalea regia) - restricted colonial breeding in Victoria Atriplex stipitata (kidney saltbush) - vulnerable in Victoria • Painted Snipe (Rostratula benghalensis) - insufficiently known Trigonella suavissima (sweet fenugreek) - rare in • Gull-billed Tern (Sterna nilotica) - restricted Victoria colonial breeding in Victoria Diplachne fusca (brown beetle-grass) - rare in • Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa) - rare in Victoria Victoria • Regent Honeyeater (Xanthomyza phrygia) - endangered in Victoria and nationally

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Threatened fish species: Saline groundwater intrusion from local and • Golden Perch (Macquaria ambigua) - rare in regional groundwater tables, saline irrigation Victoria tailwater disposal to wetlands and the isolation of wetlands from the natural flood flows is causing • Murray Hardyhead (Craterocephalus increases in lake salinity and associated changes fluviatilis) - rare in Victoria in biota. • Silver Perch (Bidyanus bidyanus) - vulnerable in Victoria 23. Conservation measures taken: • Freshwater Catfish (Tandanus tandanus) - The values of First, Second and Third Marshes vulnerable in Victoria and Cullen's Lake have been recognised by listing on the Register of the National Estate. Threatened reptile species: • Carpet Python (Morelia spilota variegata) - The conservation values of the Kerang Wetlands vulnerable in Victoria have been identified in a series of studies (on waterbirds, vegetation, invertebrates, fish and 19. Social and cultural values: recreation) by the Kerang Lakes Assessment (no information entered on sheet) Group. These studies contribute to a wider 20. Land tenure/ownership: Irrigation Management Plan for the Kerang Area. Of the 22 wetlands, 7 are State Wildlife Reserves The studies identified actions required to maintain (Lake Bael Bael, First Marsh, Second Marsh, Third or enhance the conservation values of the Kerang Marsh, Stevenson Swamp, Hird Swamp and Lakes. Johnson Swamp), 8 are Water Supply Reserves An Environmental Watering Program has (Reedy Lake, Middle Lake, Third Lake, Little Lake commenced to restore more natural watering Charm, Lake Charm, Racecourse Lake, Kangaroo regimes in several of the wetlands. Lake and Lake Cullen), 3 are Salinity Disposal Reserves (Lake Kelly, Lake William and Lake The outlet at Third Marsh has been modified to Tutchewop) and 4 are Crown Land without specific alleviate prolonged flooding. reservation. Action Statements under the Flora and Fauna 21. Current land use: Guarantee Act 1988 have been produced for the • the site: The lakes are used for nature following fauna species which occur at this Ramsar conservation, recreation, saline water site. The statements outline conservation disposal, irrigation water storage and measures for these species. transport, duck hunting and sewerage disposal. • Grey Falcon (1997) • the surroundings/catchment: Dryland and • White-bellied Sea-eagle (1994) irrigation farming. • Plains Wanderer (1995) 22. Factors (past, present or potential) • Regent Honeyeater (1994) adversely affecting the site's ecological character, including changes in land 24. Conservation measures proposed but use and development projects: not yet implemented: Ecological change has not been significant since Lake Bael Bael and First, Second and Third the Ramsar information sheet for the site was last Marshes: updated in 1992. modification of the upper catchment to reduce flooding and salinity of Avoca River water. Historically, the Kerang Lakes have undergone a strategy to eradicate the problem of saline significant changes in water regime since the groundwater inflows to Second and Third Marshes. development of the Torrumbarry Irrigation System in 1896. After the upgrading of the system in 1923, Cullen's Lake: land salinisation became a major problem and shallow water tables became widespread leading regular flushing to reduce salinity levels, prevention to an increase in the salinity levels in many of the of uncontrolled grazing and cultivation along wetlands. shoreline.

Altered catchment hydrology resulting in greater In an integrated approach to planning at Ramsar river flows has caused lakes on the Avoca River to sites, management strategies are being prepared fill more frequently causing decline of Red Gum for all Ramsar sites in Victoria, including the forests. Kerang Wetlands, to provide general strategic

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direction and site specific strategies. The strategies 30. Bibliographical references: will be completed by June 1999. Fleming, G. (1990). Report to the Kerang Lakes Area Working Group. Report No. 3. The Aquatic 25. Current scientific research and facilities: Invertebrate and Fish Faunas of the Kerang Lakes Area. Department of Conservation and Much survey work was undertaken during the Environment, Bendigo Region. planning phase of the 1992 Salinity Management Plan on flora and fauna inhabiting the Lakes. Heron, S. and C. Nieuwland. (1989). Recreation on Public Land in the Kerang Lakes Area. Tree health and water quality have been monitored for many Kerang wetlands. Lugg, A. (1989). Report to the Kerang Lakes Area Working Group. Report No. 4. Waterbirds of the Water quality monitoring is ongoing. Wetlands of the Kerang Lakes Area. Department 26. Current conservation education: of Conservation, Forests and Lands, Bendigo There is a bird hide located at Reedy Lake with Region. an associated information display. Lugg, A., S. Heron, G. Fleming and T. O'Donnell. 27. Current recreation and tourism: (1989). Report to the Kerang Lakes Area Working The public land of the Kerang Lakes area is a very Group. Report No. 1. Conservation Value of valuable resource for recreation. Land based Wetlands in the Kerang Lakes Area. Department of activities, water based activities and water Conservation, Forests and Lands, Bendigo enhanced activities are all catered for. The value of Region. the land for recreation partially stems from its natural ecological assets, its plant life and its O'Donnell, T. (1990). Report to the Kerang Lakes wildlife, but also from the reliable supply of fresh Area Working Group. Report No. 2. Vegetation of water which has been brought into the area for the Wetlands in the Kerang Lakes Area. irrigation purposes. Activities include pleasure Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands, driving/sightseeing, camping, picnicking, Bendigo Region. swimming, sailing, waterskiing, boating, fishing, Wetlands Scientific Committee. (1993). Victoria’s hunting and nature study/appreciation. High Value Wetlands. Department of Natural 28. Jurisdiction: Resources and Environment. Government of Victoria. 29. Management authority: Managed under the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Parks Program by Parks Victoria - 8,389 Ha (89%)

Natural Resources and Environment - 169 Ha (1.8%) Water Authority - 861 Ha (9.2%)

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE KERANG WETLANDS RAMSAR SITE PAGE 45 Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan

Department of Sustainability and Environment