PROJECTS
Title: Cowabbie Creek Salinity Reduction and Riparian Repair Project
Program: NRM
Description: Preliminary results from a recent electromagnetic survey have identified a geological barrier to groundwater flows near the confluence of Cowabbie and Redbank creeks near Grong Grong township. A result of the restricted groundwater flows is high soil salt concentrations. These salt loads have caused widespread loss of vegetation and surface salt scalding. Run-off from this area then transports high salt concentrations into downstream watercourses and adds to the salt load entering the MIA. The reduction of salt load transfers entering the MIA is a specific target set out in the Draft Murrumbidgee Catchment Blueprint 2001. This project involves undertaking key revegetation and management works to halt the decline of vegetation in the area. These works will include establishing salt tolerant vegetation and fencing to exclude stock planting of perennial pastures to reduce groundwater accessions on identified recharge zones and installation of 6 piezometers in strategic sites to monitor groundwater levels. Results will include reduced salt and sediment loads into Cowabbie Creek enhanced remnant native vegetation and improved water quality.
Funding: (2002/2003) $28,070
