Integrated Riparian/Wetland Systems for Stormwater Management in Lake Macquarie

Lake Macquarie, New South Wales

Environmental Issues

Deforestation and urbanisation of the Lake Macquarie catchment has resulted in significant impacts on the water quality of Lake Macquarie. Important issues include: elevated nutrient and bacterial levels, litter pollution, heavy metal pollution, loss of habitat, loss of aesthetic value, increased sediment loads and accelerated catchment erosion.

Water Quality Management

The project will adopt a multi-objective approach to addressing stormwater pollution problems in Lake Macquarie. Pollution control will be implemented at a range of sites surrounding the Lake and will include the construction of saltmarshes, wetland systems and sediment traps. A number of simple, low cost treatment devices based on the current understanding of natural ecosystem processes will be constructed. Engineered and riparian works will be supported by extensive source control and catchment management education with the community, residential developers and industry.

Resources 2000/2001 - 2001/2002

Urban Stormwater Initiative $448,625
Other Contributions $543,000
Total Project Costs $991,625

Longer Term Benefits

The overall vision of the project is to reduce the amount of litter, sediments and nutrients entering waterways in the Lake. Outcomes will include the installation of tailored water pollution control structures in priority catchments, improved ecosystem health and an increased community awareness and understanding of stormwater management.

Contact

Neale Farmer
Lake Macquarie City Council
PO Box 1906
Hunter Region Mail Centre
NSW 2310
(02) 4921 0365