Large structural habitat is typically degraded, reduced or missing in many parts of the large tributaries of the Gippsland Lakes. The reintroduction of large wood structure or snags has been demonstrated to provide beneficial habits for many native species of estuarine fish.
About the project
This project helps to understand resident fish populations, create more habitat for them to thrive and improve facilities for fishers and river users.
To be able to measure success, the West Gippsland CMA undertook fish surveys using various methods including electro fishing. They recorded Estuary Perch, Australian Bass, Bully Mullet and Flathead Gudgeon.
Next, hardwood logs, were installed and pinned by vertical piles that were strategically designed to maximise habitat area and mimic the complexity and form of natural river snags.
Not just any logs, the timber was sourced from large trees that had fallen during extreme wind and flood events, and collected by Emergency Recovery Victoria.
Once the habitat was installed, the team turned their attention to repairing the fishing platforms and native trees provided the finishing touches to the site.
A second fish survey was conducted after the instream structural habitat was installed which showed the fish using there new habitat for feeding and shelter.
Project lead
