This project will result in the increased protection of threatened beach nesting and resident waterbirds through the control of key predators including fox. The eradication of the remaining introduced goat population at Lake Coleman and a reduction of priority weeds across the landscape resulting in the improvement of fringing and freshwater wetland habitats across the Gippsland Lakes and the prevention of further spread.
About the project
This project will implement pest animal and plant control activities across the Gippsland Lakes at priority sites to protect and improve the ecological character of the Gippsland Lakes building on previous investment.
Pest animal control will be delivered across Lake Wellington fringing wetlands (Heart Morass, Dowd Morass, Clydebank Morass), Macleod Morass and Lake Coleman. The target species across all sites will be foxes, with the aim to reduce predation on beach nesting and resident waterbirds enhancing breeding opportunities. Additionally, the remaining goat population at Lake Coleman will be monitored and controlled (via ground shooting) with the objective to eradicate remaining individuals.
Pest plant control will be undertaken across Lake Wellington fringing wetlands (Heart Morass, Dowd Morass, Clydebank Morass), Macleod Morass, Sale Common and the Mitchell River Silt Jetties (opportunistically). Woody weeds including (but not limited to) willow, boxthorn and blackberry will be targeted resulting in the reduction of weeds in the landscape contributing to the overall improved condition of the Gippsland Lakes.
Parks Victoria will lead the planning and delivery of this project and work in partnership with Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC) landholders and contractors to deliver pest plant and animal control activities at priority sites.
Project lead
Project partners
- Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation
- BirdLife Australia
- Greening Australia
- West Gippsland Catchment Authority
