Landholders and fishers restoring Rocky Mouth Creek

The NSW Government today paid tribute to farmers on the NSW North Coast for their role in helping restore the Rocky Mouth Creek, near Woodburn on the Richmond River.

The project, funded with $95,340 from the Environmental Trust, will be a major win for both the environment and landholders.

The Creek's water quality has been poor for many years, and has resulted in a number of devastating fish kills.

A group of six landholders are working with NSW Fisheries to improve the environmental value of the Creek by restoring the surrounding land.

Restoration of the Creek will involve levelling 55 hectares of paddocks, which will reduce the amount of water that accumulates on land during floods.

This water leads to the decomposition of vegetation and eventually enters the Creek, stripping oxygen from its waters, which can cause fish kills.

The project also involves making nearly two kilometres of artificial drainage systems more shallow to reduce the chance of acid sulfate soils being exposed, while still allowing good drainage.

Floodgates in the area are being systematically opened during non-flood periods, which will improve water quality within drainage systems and allow fish to access former habitats.

Landholders have also agreed to set aside 19 hectares of mature paperbark forest and rainforest to preserve their natural values. Trees will also be planted along areas of waterway and then electrically fenced off to keep cattle out.

The combined results of these initiatives will improve water quality and fish passage, as well as enhance agricultural productivity for farmers.

A wide range of organisations and individuals have supported the project, including the NSW Sugar Milling Cooperative; the Ballina Fishermen's Cooperative; Evans Head Fishermen's Cooperative; the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources; NSW Agriculture; Richmond Valley Council; Richmond River County Council; and Richmond Landcare Incorporated.