Romawi Landcare will deliver two projects to fortify Forge Creek, which runs directly into the Gippsland Lakes and to protect the Pygmy Perch of Forge Creek.
About the project
“Our group was fascinated to see the native fish that live in Forge Creek and really delighted to find out we had Pygmy Perch. While everyone knows that carp are a major problem in our waterways, the tiny non-native mosquito fish may be posing an even bigger threat by out-competing our natives,” said Trish Fox.
Fish surveys will be carried out across six ponds along Forge Creek and Pygmy Perch will be reintroduced to select ponds. The survey will also show where exotic fish species are impacting native threatened species and these fish will be reduced. The group will create a scientifically informed management plan for the area to guide future actions.
“We know how important this chain of ponds is and we want to ensure they can persist in drought and keep providing a water source for the fauna in our area.”
Funding for bird surveys will also allow the group to track how ten years of planting has benefited birds and increased species diversity.
“Our Group was just delighted to receive this funding. We’ve been plugging away quietly for years but now we feel reinvigorated by knowing that the funders share and support our ambitions for this great creek.”
“Forge Creek is a really beautiful place and it’s amazing to find something so wild in a rural area. I think our whole Group appreciates how important the creek is and really want to ensure that this link to the Gippsland Lakes is as healthy as it can be.”
Project partners
- East Gippsland Landcare Network
- Romawi Landcare Group
