Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley, NSW

Transcription

1 Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley, NSW NSW pages.indd 1 4/1/06 11:05:22 AM

2 NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. PO Box 797 ALBURY NSW 2640 Ph (02) Fax (02) Website: Chair - Howard Jones Vice Chair - Judy Frankenberg This work is copyright. Except for the MWWG logo, graphical and textual information in this guide may be reproduced in whole or in part provided that it is not sold or put to commercial use and its source ( Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley, NSW ) is acknowledged. Such reproduction includes fair dealing for the purpose of public education, private study, research criticism or review as permitted under the Copyright Act Reproduction for other purposes is prohibited without written permission of the NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. ISBN: NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc Author: Deborah Nias Printed by: Thomson s GraphiPress, Albury, NSW Australia. This document should be referenced as: Nias, D. (2005) Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley, NSW, NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc., Albury, NSW Australia. Cover photo: Wetland near Deniliquin that received water as part of The Watering of Private Wetlands Project in 2002 (photo courtesy Trish Alexander) NSW pages.indd 2 4/1/06 11:05:28 AM

3 Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley, NSW NSW pages.indd 1 4/1/06 11:05:22 AM

4 Chairman Howard Jones (right) and Vice-Chair Judy Frankenberg with the Thiess Services National River Prize received in 2002 (photo courtesy Trish Alexander) howard&judy page.indd 1 4/1/06 7:50:57 AM

5 CHAIRMAN S REPORT The creation of an Adaptive Environmental Water allocation has provided the Murray Wetlands Working Group (MWWG) with a unique opportunity to provide beneficial outcomes to the Murray Valley environment and the State of New South Wales. Since the MWWG was appointed as the custodian or manager of the AEW by the then NSW Land and Water Conservation Minister, Richard Amery, the Murray and Lower Darling regions have been in the most serious drought in living history. This has provided unique opportunities and challenges to the Group in relation to its management of the water. Clear operating principles have assisted and helped guide us in planning for each year s allocation and thereby maximised the environmental benefits that could be achieved. An adaptive approach to the direction for the Group from the NSW Government during exceptional circumstances has also greatly assisted. The outcomes of the environmental water s use during the trial period have been many and varied, including: Extending flooding in the Barmah Millewa Forests in 2001, which resulted in a significant bird breeding event; Watering of approximately 250 wetlands on private properties within the Murray Irrigation Limited, Moira Private Irrigation District and West Corurgan Irrigation areas; Diversions into public wetlands such as Gulpa Creek wetlands, Thegoa Lagoon, Pollacks Swamp, Werai State Forest; Increased understanding and improved management of many wetlands; Development of wetland funding schemes that has distributed over $500,000 to landholders and community groups within the Murray Valley for wetland rehabilitation and education activities; Temporary water sales for capital generation; and Provision of capital to underpin MWWG activities. The creation of the Adaptive Environmental Water has provided the NSW State with the experience in the use of environmental water. We have learnt much through this opportunity. Hopefully the i NSW pages.indd 3 4/1/06 11:05:34 AM

6 experiences gained over the past can be a guide to authorities as to how future water savings generated through the Living Murray/ National Water Initiative processes can be best managed and applied. On behalf of the NSW MWWG, I would like to express my thanks to the NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation for giving us the opportunity to manage this water on their behalf. I extend our thanks to the numerous people involved in the trial, particularly the communities, landholders and government agencies in the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling region - my thanks also to the staff and Board members of the MWWG. Howard Jones Chairman NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. Author s note. This report summarises the use of Adaptive Environmental Water in the Murray Valley of NSW between 2000 and It outlines what was done, what was achieved and what was learnt. More comprehensive detail is provided in the Annual Operating Plans, written each year by the group on the management of the AEW and available upon request. For privacy reasons, individuals, landholders or properties are not named unless given permission. ii NSW pages.indd 4 4/1/06 11:05:40 AM

7 CHAIRMAN S REPORT...3 1i ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS LIST OF ACRONYMS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY THE NSW MURRAY WETLANDS WORKING GROUP BACKGROUND SOURCES OF ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER HISTORY,TERMS AND CONDITIONS COMMUNICATION WATER USE IN BARMAH-MILLEWA FOREST WANGANELLA SWAMP USE OF FUNDS FROM TRADED WATER WATER USE IN WATERING OF PRIVATE WETLANDS PROJECT POLLACKS SWAMP WERAI FOREST WETLANDS USE OF FUNDS FROM TRADED WATER WATER USE IN TRIAL SUSPENDED WATERING OF PRIVATE WETLANDS PROJECT POLLACKS SWAMP USE OF FUNDS FROM TRADED WATER WATER USE IN WATERING OF PRIVATE WETLANDS PROJECT GULPA CREEK WETLANDS POLLACKS SWAMP THEGOA LAGOON USE OF FUNDS FROM TRADED WATER MANAGEMENT OF TRADED WATER WATER SALES MANAGEMENT MONITORING REHABILITATION FUNDS iii Pg 5-8.indd 1 9/2/06 8:31:08 AM

8 8.0 TRADING OF WATER ADMINISTRATIVE RULES ISSUES ARISING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE ADMINISTRATION REPORTS AND REFERENCES CONTACTS iv Pg 5-8.indd 2 3/2/06 3:26:47 PM

9 FIGURE 1 MAP OF NSW MURRAY VALLEY REGION (GREEN SHADING) WHERE THE ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER CAN BE USED FIGURE 2 NSW CENTRAL MURRAY STATE FORESTS, SHOWING LOCATION OF WETLANDS THAT HAVE RECEIVED AEW DURING FIGURE 3 GREAT EGRET (ARDEA ALBA) NESTING IN RIVER RED GUM (EUCALYPTUS CAMALDULENSIS) IN MILLEWA FOREST (PHOTO COURTESY JO MURPHY) FIGURE 4WANGANELLA SWAMP (RED OUTLINE) FIGURE 5MEDIA RELEASE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL FLOW TO WANGANELLA SWAMP FIGURE 6FLOW AT WARRISTON WEIR WHICH SHOWS THE DELIVERY OF THE ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER ALLOCATION TO WANGANELLA SWAMP IN DECEMBER FIGURE 7FRONT COVER OF THE WETLANDS WATCH KIT, LAUNCHED IN OCTOBER FIGURE 8EXAMPLE OF INFORMATION CONTAINED WITHIN THE RIVER MURRAY WETLANDS DATABASE FIGURE 9 THE MIL AREA OF OPERATION (SHADED BLUE) WITH RED STARS SHOWING THE LOCATION OF WETLANDS WHICH RECEIVED WATER IN FIGURE 10 WETLAND NEAR DENILIQUIN. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE ABOVE PHOTO SHOWS THE SAME AREA 12 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 11 WETLAND NEAR WAKOOL. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE ABOVE PHOTO SHOWS THE SAME AREA 15 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 12 WETLAND NEAR JERILDERIE. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE ABOVE PHOTO SHOWS THE SAME AREA 12 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 13 LOCATION OF WERAI FOREST, NSW (GREEN SHADING WITH RED AREA INDICATING AREA AFFECTED BY FIRST FLOODING IN 2001) FIGURE 14 TYPICAL WETLAND AREAS INUNDATED BY THE TRIAL WATERING OF WERAI FOREST IN FIGURE 15 THE MIL AREA OF OPERATION (SHADED BLUE) WITH RED STARS SHOWING THE LOCATION OF WETLANDS WHICH RECEIVED WATER IN 2001, AND BLUE STARS SHOWING WETLANDS WHICH RECEIVED WATER IN FIGURE 16 WETLAND NEAR DENILIQUIN. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE PHOTO ABOVE SHOWS THE SAME AREA 6 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 17 WETLAND NEAR DENILIQUIN. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE PHOTO ABOVE SHOWS THE SAME AREA 18 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 18 THE MIL AREA OF OPERATION (BLUE AREA) WITH STARS SHOWING THE LOCATION OF WETLANDS WHICH RECEIVED WATER (RED STARS 2001, BLUE STARS 2002, YELLOW STARS 2003) FIGURE 19 WETLAND NEAR DENILIQUIN. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE BOTTOM PHOTO SHOWS THE SAME AREA 12 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 20 WETLAND NEAR MOULAMEIN. TOP PHOTO SHOWS THE WETLAND BEFORE RECEIVING WATER, AND THE BOTTOM PHOTO SHOWS THE SAME AREA 12 WEEKS AFTER INUNDATION FIGURE 21 MAP OF GULPA CREEK WETLANDS (REFER TO FIGURE 2 FOR DETAILED MAP OF LOCATION) FIGURE 22 AERIAL PHOTO OF GULPA CREEK WETLANDS (1999) v NSW pages.indd 7 9/2/06 1:50:58 PM

10 FIGURE 23 ROYAL SPOONBILLS IN BREEDING PLUMAGE AT GULPA CREEK WETLANDS, NOVEMBER 2003 (PHOTO COURTESY JO MURPHY) FIGURE 24 AUSTRALIAN WHITE IBIS NESTING AT GULPA CREEK WETLANDS,NOVEMBER 2003 (PHOTO COURTESY JO MURPHY) FIGURE 25 MAP OF POLLACKS SWAMP (COURTESY FORESTS NSW) FIGURE 26 THE REGULATOR ON THE BRINGAN IRRIGATION TRUST CHANNEL THAT ALLOWS WATER INTO POLLACKS SWAMP FIGURE 27 THERE WAS AN ABUNDANCE OF NATIVE GRASS SPECIES THAT GREW AROUND THE PERIMETER OF POLLACK SWAMP AFTER THE FLOODWATER RECEDED. THE PHOTOGRAPH ALSO SHOWS THE HEALTHY CONDITION OF THE RIVER RED GUMS (PHOTO COURTESY PAUL CHILDS, FORESTS NSW, NOVEMBER 2003) FIGURE 28 LOCATION OF THEGOA LAGOON,WENTWORTH NSW FIGURE 29 THEGOA LAGOON DURING DRY PHASE, JULY 2002 (TOP), AND AFTER RECEIVING AN ENVIRONMENTAL FLOW,JANUARY 2004 (PHOTOS COURTESY PAULA D SANTOS) FIGURE 30 VARIOUS BIRD SPECIES FOUND IN THE MURRAY AND LOWER MURRAY-DARLING CATCHMENT (PHOTOS TAKEN AT THEGOA LAGOON AFTER RECEIVING AN ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER FLOW IN COURTESY PAULA D SANTOS) TABLE 1. ADAPTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER USE FROM WITHIN THE NSW MURRAY VALLEY TABLE 2. PRIVATE WETLANDS WITHIN MURRAY IRRIGATION AREA OF OPERATION WHICH RECEIVED WATER IN 2001 FROM THE ADAPATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL WATER vi NSW pages.indd 8 9/2/06 1:51:05 PM

11 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The management of water for wetlands by a community group was a ground-breaking project, and the Murray Wetlands Working Group has welcomed the opportunity to be involved in such an innovative and exciting trial. The Group has gained considerable experience and expertise in the management of environmental allocations during the trial, and it has developed excellent working relationships with landholders, irrigation companies, government agencies and other organisations. The Murray Wetlands Working Group appreciates the continuing opportunity to manage the Adaptive Environmental Water on behalf of the Government and people of New South Wales. Implementing an environmental flow is not as simple as turning on a tap and watching the water flow. To achieve all that is reported in this document was the result of the combined effort of many individuals and organisations. It is the co-operation of people from across such a diverse range of interests aiming to achieve positive environmental benefits, which has made this trial a success. The NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group extends its appreciation and gratitude to the following organisations without whom, so much would not have been achieved; The NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation The NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources Forests NSW Murray-Darling Basin Commission River Murray Water Murray Irrigation Limited Bringan Irrigation Trust Murrumbidgee Irrigation Limited NSW State Water Murray Shire Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) NSW Dept of Environment and Conservation NSW Murray Catchment Management Authority NSW Lower Murray-Darling Catchment Management Authority NSW Nature Conservation Working Group Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) 1 NSW pages.indd 1 9/2/06 1:51:10 PM

12 Many individuals contributed to the success of this trial and we acknowledge the hard work and expertise of; 200 landholders involved in the Watering on Private Wetlands Project David Harriss David Leslie George Warne, Jenny McLeod, Chris Shaw, Alex Marshall Murray Irrigation Ltd Land and Water Management Plan Officers Laura Sykes Bunty and Martin Driver Licensing staff of DIPNR Damian Green Paul Lloyd George Smith Catherine Hams and Callan Pearson NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group staff and board members Many other people who have contributed to components of this trial LIST OF ACRONYMS MWWG NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group AEW Adaptive Environmental Water ML Megalitres MIL Murray Irrigation Limited DIPNR Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources WAMC NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation WIS Wetlands Incentive Scheme RIP Wetland Rehabiliation and Investigations Program MDBC Murray-Darling Basin Commission RMWD River Murray Wetlands Database RMMII River Murray Mapping Series II NHT Natural Heritage Trust SI&E Strategic Investigation and Education Program CMA Catchment Management Authority VAS Volumetric Allocation Scheme 2 NSW pages.indd 2 9/2/06 1:51:15 PM

13 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Between 2000 and 2003, the NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. managed on a trial basis, an Adaptive Environmental Water Allocation within the Murray Valley of New South Wales. Originally derived from water savings generated as a result of government investment in seepage control works within the Murray Irrigation Limited Area of Operation, the allocation of 30,000 Megalitres was made available to the NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group (MWWG) for improving wetlands and environmental purposes in the Murray Valley. Under arrangement with the NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources (DIPNR) (formerly NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation), the MWWG managed the allocation on a trial basis for three years. This document details how this water was used during that trial period and provides recommendations for its future management. The Adaptive Environmental Water Allocation (AEW) use was restricted to within the NSW Murray Valley. The NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation owns the AEW, and up to 30,000 megalitres could be available each year. Water is stored in the Hume Dam, and under the agreement, a portion of the water could be traded on the temporary annual market if it remained unused. Funds were to be used to improve environmental flow conditions within the NSW Murray Valley. The NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group is a community wetland rehabilitation group, which has been operating within the Lower Murray-Darling and Murray Catchments of NSW since This Group was given the opportunity to advise DIPNR on management of the water savings based on its previous experience with water management and wetland rehabilitation. The MWWG determined which wetland areas should receive water using the best available scientific information and recommendations. The Group also implemented the environmental water flows through co-ordination with relevant agencies and individuals, as well as providing for the monitoring of outcomes. The Group managed any temporary trade of the water, with funds being returned to a specially marked account within the NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources. How the water was used depended on environmental conditions. When a large or moderate flood occured, there was an opportunity to piggy-back the AEW onto this water and flood surrounding floodplain wetlands. When there were no such high flows, water use became extremely limited, as it is generally very impractical and expensive to try and lift (pump) water onto floodplains. Instead, 3 NSW pages.indd 3 9/2/06 1:51:19 PM

14 water can be diverted to wetlands through irrigation infrastructure such as channels and pipes. Only sites with appropriate nearby infrastructure can be targeted, and volumes become restricted by channel capacity and current irrigation use. In 2000, the first year of the trial, environmental conditions were highly favourable and 26,000 ML of the AEW was used to extend a flood event in the Barmah-Millewa Forest. This was part of the largest environmental flow implemented within Australia, and provided flooding to over 12,000 hectares of Red Gum forest. Thousands of birds successfully bred during the flooding, some of which had not bred within the region for nearly 20 years. Another 1,500 ML was used for similar purposes in Wanganella Swamp, also leading to a highly successful bird breeding event. In addition, 2,500 ML was traded on the annual temporary market via private water broker, and funds ($65,000) used to continue and extend the most comprehensive wetland database in the region, the River Murray Wetlands Database, and to finish a wetland monitoring guide - Wetlands Watch Kit - aimed mainly at landholders. In 2001, the second year of the trial, the catchment was experiencing very little rainfall and river flows remained low. Consequently, the group allocated water to wetlands which had not been flooded for many years and which could be reached through existing irrigation infrastructure. Approximately 5,900 ML was provided to several significant wetlands within the region, including 600 ML to Pollacks Swamp in the Koondrook-Pericoota Forest (subsequently postponed) and 3,261 ML to Werai Forest wetlands, nominated as a Wetland of International Significance under the Ramsar Convention. 800 ML was provided to 10 landholders within the Murray Irrigation Ltd Area of Operation to improve their Black Box (Eucalyptus largiflorens) floodplain depressions and wetland areas. This latter project was bold in its vision, and highly successful in its outcomes. It provided the basis for further expansion of the project into other irrigation areas which were also suffering a serious decline in their wetland areas. 15,000 ML was traded on the annual temporary market via private water broker and the funds ($500,000) use for management and monitoring of the AEW and to provide for a variety of rehabilitation works. In 2002, the third year of the trial, the dry conditions in the Murray Valley again limited the opportunities to utilise the AEW. After receiving requests from both the irrigation community and the NSW Government, the group placed 23,000 ML of the AEW on the annual temporary market via the Murray Irrigation Ltd Water Exchange and the trial was suspended for a year. Nevertheless, the watering of private property wetlands which had begun in 2001 was continued in 2002 with the cooperation of Murray Irrigation Limited. Despite the dry conditions, 27 landholders became involved in the project, with 3,945 ML used on over 570 hectares of previously droughted wetland areas. Funds 4 NSW pages.indd 4 9/2/06 1:51:24 PM

15 generated from the sale - $3.8 million are currently being used for rehabilitation projects and to support the rehabilitation and monitoring activities of the MWWG. In 2003, the region experienced good late winter-spring rainfalls, and freshes and surplus flows occurred. These high flows provided more opportunities to provide wetlands with water, including: 1,600 ML for Gulpa Creek wetlands (Millewa Forest) to extend water levels for vegetation; 950 ML for Pollacks Swamp (Koondrook-Perricoota) for improving vegetation; 550 ML for Thegoa Lagoon (near Wentworth NSW) to extend water levels for vegetation; and 7,510 ML for Private Wetlands. In 2003, 11,910 ML was traded on the annual temporary market via the MIL Water Exchange (including 1,218 ML from Moira Lake water savings which the MWWG also manages, and 13% losses applied within MIL), generating ~ $700,000. Apart from the obvious direct ecological benefits derived from providing water to wetlands when and where it is needed, the AEW also provided the opportunity to indirectly improve flow conditions for wetlands. Many wetlands either receive too much water, or not enough due to the current regulation of the Murray, Edward and Darling Rivers. Wetlands with too much water tend to loose their aquatic biodiversity and vegetation communities change due to waterlogging. Likewise with wetlands that remain dry, there is a loss of habitat for aquatic animals, birds and vegetation. Rehabilitation is possible if resources and knowledge are available. The temporary sale of unused water provides the financial resources needed to further rehabilitate wetlands through the region. The monetary value of traded water varied considerably each year depending on market prices which have ranged within the Murray Valley from $20-$380 per megalitre during the trial period. The amount of water available for trading also varied each year. In 2004, the MWWG set-up two schemes to channel funds which the wider community could access for appropriate wetland based activities. The Wetlands Incentive Scheme (WIS) and Wetland Rehabilitation and Investigations Program (RIP) provide financial resources to landholders, community groups and others, to improve wetlands directly through on-ground works, or indirectly through improved knowledge or scientific understanding. The WIS is a small grants program, i.e. projects less than $10,000, aimed to encourage and provide assistance to individual landholders or community groups interested in managing and/or rehabilitating natural wetlands. The scheme provides financial assistance for on-ground works such as fencing, revegetation or minor earth works, small studies aimed at improving and/or rehabilitating the ecological functioning of natural wetlands, 5 NSW pages.indd 5 9/2/06 1:51:28 PM

16 or small education/awareness activities for wetlands within the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling catchments in NSW. The Wetland Rehabilitation and Investigations Program is intended for projects costing more than $10,000. Projects can be on-ground works; investigations and/or scoping studies aimed at improving management, understanding and/or the rehabilitation of natural wetlands within the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling catchment areas in NSW. To date, ~$400,000 has been provided through these two funding schemes for some 40 projects within the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling Catchments to improve wetlands and provide better knowledge for their future management. Trade of the AEW was at times controversial such as in 2002 when the sale of 23,000 ML during a time of drought and resultant high water prices drew some concerns that the government was taking advantage of high prices to generate income. However, the sale also provided 23,000 ML of previously unavailable water across the region at a time when allocations were nearly zero and communities were suffering. The sale of this water benefited consumers by providing a source of water that did not previously exist in the market, and benefited the environment by generating funds for improvement works. The methods used for sale of the water raised several issues regarding equity and accessibility. In 2001 for instance, a water broker was used which created controversy within the irrigation community as it was felt that private sales through brokers can restrict access by the majority. In 2002/03 and 2003/04, the Murray Irrigation Limited Water Exchange was used for trading water. A water exchange provides an open and accessible trading method that is also anonymous, but is generally only open to shareholders within that company. However, the MIL Water Exchange was successfully used because the company relaxed their rules regarding access to their exchange by outsiders. Some water was deliberately placed aside for other irrigators who could not access the MIL Water Exchange. A significant issue for future consideration is the losses which are applied to the volumes entering the market (~ 13% over the trial period), thereby reducing the actual amount which is traded. When the MIL Water Exchange was first used in 2002/03, there was limited scope for the MWWG to adjust price and volume according to daily market fluctuations. This resulted in a large amount of water at a fixed price becoming available, thereby glutting the market and drawing further criticism from the irrigation community. Adjusting the price and volume required appropriate authority from government, resulting in a process which could not respond quickly to market fluctuations. In recognition of these concerns, the MWWG makes the following recommendations: 6 NSW pages.indd 6 9/2/06 1:51:33 PM

17 If a community group is to be responsible for managing the trade of the water, then it should determine the most appropriate method(s) to be used (exchange/broker/combination etc.) in consultation with key stakeholders. Clear operating rules need to be established which provide flexibility in management and the ability to respond rapidly to requests for environmental water. That the appropriate delegation for gaining approval for trade rests locally, such as at a Regional Director level. This should include the authority to allow trade in a flexible manner including the ability to adjust price and volume according to the market fluctuations, but always keeping within a few dollars of the daily average. Clear government policy needs to outline these principles. Summary Lessons Learnt The trial use of the AEW within the Murray Valley identified issues but generally demonstrated that the management of AEW by a community group can successfully generate irrigation community and government support. Benefits have accrued to the environment both directly and indirectly. Landholder management of wetlands has increased and our understanding of wetland function and appropriate management is constantly improving. Management of natural resources by a community group in partnership with government and industry has been widely accepted and is now forming the model on which other arrangements are being based. The more important lessons we can draw from this trial include: 1. The need for clear government policy regarding AEW trading eg. Prices/volumes/methods to be used and clear administrative process. 2. The need for well resourced organisations, whether it be a community group like the MWWG, a CMA or a government agency. The identification, implementation, monitoring and reporting on AEW requires staff and money. Government and industry imposed delivery charges require financing and may form a substantial barrier to implementing environmental flows in the future. 3. The need for flexibility to allow a true adaptive management approach so that unexpected changes can be responded to in a timely and effective way. The success of the trial is due to the co-operation of many people and organisations, all with the objective to improving wetland management within the Murray Valley. In addition, it is the knowledge base within the MWWG itself which has contributed to the success of the trial, and highlights the need for local expertise to assist the delivery of good environmental outcomes. 7 NSW pages.indd 7 9/2/06 1:51:37 PM

18 The MWWG thanks the Water Administration Ministerial Corporation (WAMC) for this privilege and welcomes the opportunity to continue management of the Adaptive Environmental Water within the Murray Valley. 8 NSW pages.indd 8 9/2/06 1:51:42 PM

19 1.0 THE NSW MURRAY WETLANDS WORKING GROUP The NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. (MWWG) was established in 1992 as an initiative of the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling Catchment Management Committees. These committees recognised the continuing loss and degradation of wetlands along the River Murray and established the Working Group to develop and implement well-researched, technically sound and communityendorsed management programs for wetlands. The NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group is an incorporated body and has an Australian Business Number. Since its inception, the MWWG has developed into a very successful community-based wetland rehabilitation group in the Murray-Darling Basin. The Group has achieved a good record of wetland investigation, community education and participation, development of management plans for priority wetlands, and liaison with government agencies, research groups and Indigenous communities. Most importantly, the MWWG has managed works for the rehabilitation of priority wetlands on the River Murray floodplain. The MWWG s objectives are to develop a strategic approach to the management and rehabilitation of wetlands throughout the Murray and Lower Darling catchments within NSW, and implement wetland management programs at selected wetlands. The MWWG includes members from the wider community, Local Government, NSW Catchment Management Authorities, Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre and relevant NSW Government agencies. This broad range of expertise on the Murray Wetlands Working Group encourages an integrated and co-operative approach to the planning of wetland rehabilitation and ensures appropriate management options are identified and developed. Proceeds from the sale of water savings under the Group s management and bank interest are now established as sources of income for the NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group in addition to grants from funding bodies. The Group s financial year is from October to September and KPMG Albury audits the Group s finances annually. The NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group provides technical advice and representation on various groups, which has included: Darling Anabranch Management Plan Environmental Flows Committee Gol Gol Community Reference Group MDBC River Murray Environmental Flow Project Regional Evaluation Groups 9 NSW pages.indd 9 9/2/06 1:51:46 PM

20 Murray and Lower Murray-Darling Catchment Management Authorities Thegoa Lagoon Management Plan Steering Committee Current individuals, community groups and agencies within the MWWG are: v Private Irrigators v Landholders/farmers v Murray Darling Association v Wentworth Shire Council v Murray Shire Council v Independent Scientist v Murray Darling Freshwater Research Centre v Lower Murray - Darling Catchment Management Authority v Murray Catchment Management Authority v NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources v Department of Primary Industries (Fisheries) v Forests NSW v VIC Department of Sustainability and Environment Roles and Responsibilities of Members Members of the MWWG are volunteers and chosen on the basis of their skills, knowledge and expertise in wetlands and wetland management within the Murray Valley. Members are required to provide advice and direction to staff through the Executive. Individual government agency members do not represent their organisations per se, but are technical advisers who assist whenever possible with the implementation of the group s program. The MWWG operates with a Model Constitution which outlines the responsibilities of the members. Relationship to government The MWWG arose in 1992 as an initiative of the then Lower Murray and Murray-Darling Catchment Management Committees. Initially, funding was provided through the NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation for one Project Officer who was housed within that agency. As the group s activities expanded, funding was received from other sources such as Natural Heritage Trust to support projects and new staff. In 2000, funding from external sources and water trading became the primary means of implementing projects. For the AEW trial, the MWWG provided advice to the Regional Director of the Murray Region DLWC, who also acted as the WAMC representative, on the best use of the water for that season. The Group then assisted with implementing that advice. Annual Operating Plans were prepared and submitted to WAMC for approval. 10 NSW pages.indd 10 9/2/06 1:51:52 PM

21 2.0 BACKGROUND 2.1 Sources of Adaptive Environmental Water There are two sources of Adaptive Environmental Water (AEW) within the Murray Valley: 1. Up to 30,000 megalitres resulting from government funded water conservation measures within Murray Irrigation Limited, and; 2. Up to 2,027 megalitres resulting from government funded water conservation measures within Moira Lake, NSW. This review focuses primarily on the management of the 30,000 megalitres of AEW (Table 1), though reference is made to the Moira Lake savings where necessary. 2.2 History, Terms and Conditions Under the terms of its privatisation, Murray Irrigation Limited (MIL) was required to achieve a program of water conservation measures through infrastructure improvements to reduce seepage losses and increase the efficiency of supply. The former NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation (now Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources - DIPNR) funded these works. A portion (estimated to be up to 30,000 megalitres (ML)) of the water savings resulting from these improvements was removed from the MIL bulk entitlement on 30 June 1999 and returned to the NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation (WAMC). This volume was made available for environmental purposes in the Murray Valley (Figure 1), and is referred to as the Adaptive Environmental Water Allocation (AEW). The DIPNR and the WAMC agreed to manage the volume to achieve environmental improvements in the Murray Valley. In May 2001, the then NSW Minister for Land and Water Conservation agreed that the 30,000 ML of water savings was to be entrusted to the NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. for a three year trial to support environmental improvements of wetland habitats. 11 NSW pages.indd 11 9/2/06 1:51:56 PM

22 Specific management of the Adaptive Environmental Water varies from year to year, depending largely on river flow conditions and the appropriateness and effectiveness of utilising the volume for environmental flow objectives. In years when river flow conditions are such that floodplain and wetland inundation can be enhanced artificially, the water is released as an environmental allocation. The Adaptive Environmental Water is stored in the Hume Dam and use of the water below the Barmah-Millewa Choke is subject to channel capacity and availability. In years when river flows are low, the water (or part) may be sold on the temporary (annual) trade market, providing this does not exceed 50% on a 3-year average, and not sold below the Barmah- Millewa Choke. Water for consumptive use cannot be diverted during periods of peak demand. The funds generated from the sale of water are used to support projects consistent with the strategies and objectives of the Working Group. Operational Plans are prepared each year. 2.3 Communication The MWWG has a broad audience and a wide geographical range in which to operate. It is a continuous challenge to communicate the operations and outcomes of the AEW. Numerous methods are used such as: - Updating information on the website (mwwg.org.au); - Issuing press releases; - Newsletters; - Speaking on local and national radio, particularly the ABC; - Attending various forums or conferences to make more formal presentations; - Fielding general inquiries via letter/ ; - Building relationships with local media; - Distributing general publicity material; and - Producing relevant technical reports. In addition, the organisations with which the MWWG must liaise and work closely with (eg. Murray Irrigation Ltd., NSW DIPNR, Forests NSW, Local Government), provide further opportunities to publicise the Group s management of the AEW through their own existing networks. 12 NSW pages.indd 12 9/2/06 1:52:02 PM

23 Figure 1 Map of NSW Murray Valley region (green shading) where the Adaptive Environmental Water can be used. 13 NSW pages.indd 13 9/2/06 1:52:07 PM

24 Table 1. Adaptive Environmental Water use from within the NSW Murray Valley. Year Amount used or Wetland System Size of affected area (ha) traded (ML) ,0000 Barmah-Millewa Redgum forest unknown part of 65,000 ha forest - >12,000 ha 1,500 Wanganella Swamp 400 2,500 Traded total use in wetlands >27,500 65,000 total used 30, ,261 1 Werai State Forest Murray Irrigation Area of Operation Pollacks Swamp (postponed) 15,000 Traded total use in wetlands 4,061 (not including Pollacks Swamp) 372 total used 19, trial officially 3,945 Murray Irrigation Area of Operation 572 suspended 2 23,000 Traded total use in wetlands 3, total used 26, ,510 Murray Irrigation Area of Operation 1,020 1,600 Gulpa Creek Reed Beds Swamp and 1,315 Duck Lagoon 950 Pollacks Swamp Thegoa Lagoon ,910 Traded total use in wetlands 10,610 2,628 total used 22,520 1 Of the 3,261 ML assigned, only 466 ML entered the wetlands. The remaining water was needed to ensure delivery to the site (see section 4.3) 2 Although the trial was officially suspended during 2002, a small proportion of water was still made available for wetlands within the Murray Irrigation Area of Operation. 14 NSW pages.indd 14 9/2/06 1:52:12 PM

25 3.0 WATER USE IN 2000 The first year of the trial for the AEW allocation was During that year, 26,000 ML was provided to the Barmah-Millewa Forest to prolong a significant bird-breeding event initiated after the Barmah-Millewa environmental allocation was released, and to prevent birds abandoning nests due to dropping water levels. In addition, 1,500 ML was provided to Wanganella Swamp for similar purposes. The remaining allocation (2,500 ML) was traded on the temporary transfer market. These funds were used to continue and extend an existing MWWG project Assessment of Flow Requirements for NSW River Murray Wetlands and to finish a wetland monitoring guide for landholders. Funds were also used to begin a monitoring program for AEW related projects. 3.1 Barmah-Millewa Forest 26,000 ML used to prolong a natural flood event and promote bird-breeding over 12,000 hectares. The Central Murray forests and wetlands (Figure 2) play a substantial role in the functioning of the River Murray, and are critically important for the retention of native biodiversity in the Riverina bioregion. They contain significant social, cultural and economic resources (Leslie 2002). Environmental flows in the River Murray during 2000/01 focused on the water requirements of the Barmah-Millewa Forest, a 65,000ha forest which is one of the most significant natural features of the river and the largest contiguous stand of River Red Gum in Australia. It is also one of the significant ecological assets identified in The Living Murray program. The role of the AEW managed by the MWWG was to extend the duration of inundation of approximately 12,000 ha in the Barmah-Millewa Forest for about a week, which was critical for bird breeding. The 2000/01 flood, combined with one of the largest Environmental Water Allocation releases yet made in Australia (313 Gigalitres), provided substantial benefits for colonially-nesting waterbirds in terms of numbers as well as species diversity and breeding distribution (Figure 3). In particular, Great, Intermediate and Little Egrets (Ardea alba, Ardea intermedia, Egretta garzetta) bred in the forest for the first time since 1993, 1992 and 1975 respectively (Leslie 2002). In the absence of the environmental flows, about three thousand nests would have been abandoned by mid- December. The provision of environmental flows meant that at least 15,000 pairs of 20 or more 15 NSW pages.indd 15 9/2/06 1:52:16 PM

26 waterbird species were able to breed successfully in the forest during 2000/01 (Leslie 2002). Without the additional AEW, birds would have abandoned their nests and chicks as water levels dropped. Key highlights: Prolonged flooding ensured successful bird breeding event; 15,000 pairs of 20 or more waterbird species were able to breed; and Part of the largest Environmental Water Allocation release ever made in Australia. 16 NSW pages.indd 16 9/2/06 1:52:21 PM

27 Figure 2 NSW Central Murray State Forests, showing location of wetlands that have received AEW during NSW pages.indd 17 9/2/06 1:52:26 PM

28 - Figure 3 Great Egret (Ardea alba) nesting in River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) in Millewa Forest (photo courtesy Jo Murphy) 18 NSW pages.indd 18 9/2/06 1:52:31 PM

29 3.2 Wanganella Swamp 1500 ML over 400 ha. Wanganella Swamp is located 30km north of Deniliquin on the Forest Creek and receives water from the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers. (Figure 5). It is a major breeding area for Ibis (Threskiornis species) and many other waterbirds. Under the proposed Forest Creek Management Plan (Glazebrook 2000), an environmental flow for the swamp has been requested in years when certain triggers are met. The triggers include a flow of >400 ML/day at Warriston Weir for more than 40 consecutive days between mid August and mid-october, and the initiation of waterbird breeding at the swamp. On 7 December 2000, a waterbird breeding event had begun, with 3,000 nests of Straw-necked Ibis (Threskiornis spinicollis), 400 nests of Australian White Ibis (Threskiornis molucca), 50 nests of Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) with young (the only local colony of this species) and 10 nests of Royal Spoonbills (Platalea regia). In all there were approximately 7,000 adult birds and 15,000 dependant young (Green 2001). However, many birds were beginning to abandon their nests due to dropping water levels. Through the diversion of the AEW, flows in Forest Creek were increased to prevent any more of the adult birds from leaving the nests. A total of 1,500 ML of the AEW was used, together with 1,000 ML from the Murrumbidgee Environmental Contingency allowance, which is controlled by the Murrumbidgee River Management Committee. With cooperation from Murray Irrigation Limited and State Water, the AEW was supplied to Forest Creek via the Finley Escape and the Billabong Creek. The environmental flow occurred during a very hot summer period and river pumpers on the Billabong Creek system were already restricted to how much water they could pump each day, so sufficient water could be provided to the wetland. Operations at Wanganella Swamp were communicated to the public via a media release (Figure 6) and subsequent local radio interviews. The lag period between the initial flood and the supply of the environmental allocation resulted in a temporary reduction in water levels (Figure 7) but this did not dramatically affect the Ibis breeding although it may have been detrimental to the breeding of other waterbirds (Green 2001). 19 NSW pages.indd 19 9/2/06 1:52:36 PM

30 Key highlights: Successful delivery of environmental flows requiring several agencies and private industry; and Successful breeding of thousands of Ibis. The Adaptive Environmental Water (AEW) for both Barmah-Millewa Forest and Wanganella Swamp were highly successful, with many birds breeding in these wetlands that had not bred in the area for nearly 30 years. Figure 4 Wanganella Swamp (red outline). 20 NSW pages.indd 20 9/2/06 1:52:41 PM

31 Figure 5 Media Release about Environmental Flow to Wanganella Swamp NSW pages.indd 21 9/2/06 1:52:47 PM

32 Flow at Warriston Weir (ML/day) plus 8 day travel time to Wanganella Swamp 350 Actual Flow Target Environmental Flow 300 Natural Peaks Flow (ML/day) Environmental Flow reaches swamp 50 Birds observed breeding, but some abandonment 0 1-Sep 29-Sep 27-Oct 24-Nov 22-Dec 19-Jan 16-Feb 16-Mar Figure 6 Flow at Warriston Weir which shows the delivery of the Adaptive Environmental Water Allocation to Wanganella Swamp in December Use of Funds From Traded Water 2,500 ML was traded on the temporary transfer market, using private water broker generating ~ $65,000. Funds were used to develop and publish a wetland monitoring guide book for landholders - Wetlands Watch Kit - and to continue and extend an existing Natural Heritage Trust funded project Assessment of Flow Requirements for NSW River Murray Wetlands Wetlands Watch Kit The Wetlands Watch Kit is a guide for monitoring wetlands in the southern section of the Murray- Darling Basin and is particularly relevant to wetlands in the Murray and Lower Darling River systems 22 NSW pages.indd 22 9/2/06 1:52:52 PM

33 (Figure 8). The Guide is a practical tool for landowners, environmental managers and other interested groups that want to have a hands-on involvement in wetland management. WETLANDS WATCH A Field Guide for Monitoring Wetlands in the Southern Section of the Murray-Darling Basin NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group Inc. Figure 7 Front Cover of the Wetlands Watch Kit, launched in October 2002 Published in a waterproof, gloss stock with spiral ring binding, the guide outlines a range of characteristics that contribute to, or are an indicator, of wetland health. Monitoring options and examples of recording sheets are provided for landholders to monitor their wetlands. The Federal Member for Farrer, Mrs Sussan Ley, launched the Wetlands Watch Kit in October One thousand copies were produced for the first edition, followed by a second edition of The guide has proven highly popular and has been distributed widely within the Murray Region, other parts of NSW and other States River Murray Wetlands Database The River Murray Wetlands Database (RMWD) is an ArcView GIS database detailing information on wetlands, such as their location, size, type, location of blockbanks or regulators and most importantly the river level at which they begin to receive water (Figure 9). The database has been developing since the late 1980 s. It began with the mapping and classification of the majority of River Murray wetlands by Robert Pressey (1986). This mapping was updated into an ArcView GIS database as part of the MDBC River Murray Mapping Series II (RMM II, 1996). Between 1997 and 1998, DIPNR funded a project to perform field assessments of over 600 wetlands within the Edward-Wakool System. This assessment included an estimate assessment of the river level when each wetland began to receive water (commence-to-flow). This information was included 23 NSW pages.indd 23 9/2/06 1:52:57 PM

34 onto the RMM II wetland database, which allowed the development of maps showing the extent of wetland inundation at various river flow levels in the Edward-Wakool System (Green 2000). In 1999, Natural Heritage Trust (NHT) funding was obtained by the MWWG and the Victorian North- East Catchment Management Authority, to assess the commence-to-flow levels for wetlands along the River Murray (in both NSW and Vic) from Lake Hume to the Barmah-Millewa Forest, and from Echuca to Boundary Bend. This project included satellite image analysis of different flood events in conjunction with detailed field surveys at a range of river levels. In 2002, the MDBC (Strategic Investigation &Education (SI&E) Program) agreed to fund further development of the database to include satellite image analysis and detailed field surveys of wetlands between Boundary Bend and the South Australian border. It also allowed the inclusion of recent wetland mapping along the Billabong Creek, River Murray above Lake Hume, and in the area within the Murray Irrigation Limited area of operation. Funding for this project finished in April At present, the RMWD contains commence-to-flow and other information on approximately 4000 of the 7000 wetlands (rivers, creeks, billabongs, lakes and floodrunners) identified by the RMM II. This information can be used by river managers and the community to: Easily identify areas impacted by regulated and environmental flows; Identify wetlands suitable for rehabilitation; Understand the effects of different sized floods on wetland connectivity; and Develop environmentally and socially acceptable flow management strategies. To date, information from the RMWD has been used by State Agencies, Catchment Management Authority s, research organisations and consultants in several projects, including the: Lindsay and Walpolla Environmental Flow Study; Hume -Yarrawonga flood easement study; Tri-state Salinity Project; Euston Weir Pool drawdown; and The Living Murray Initiative. 24 NSW pages.indd 24 9/2/06 1:53:00 PM

35 Wodonga Figure 8 Example of information contained within the River Murray Wetlands Database Albury Wodonga Creek 8443 River Murray Wetland Database Map 1. Hume Dam and Albury / Wodonga Funded by: River Flow to Connect Wetlands Measured at Doctors Point (409017) Murray River < 5,000 ML/day 5,000-15,000 ML/day 15,000-25,000 ML/day 25,000-42,000 ML/day 42,000 to ML/day No Data 1 in 100 year flood extent MDBC Strategic Investigation and Education Program - DLWC Water Mananagment Fund Km River Murray Wetland Database - Final Report (May 2003) Colour infra-red orthopotography and original GIS mapping by NSW Murray Wetlands Working Group MDBC River Murray Mapping, 2nd Edition P.O Box 829 Albury 2640 ph (02) Ryans Creek Kiewa River Lake Hume NSW pages.indd 25 9/2/06 1:53:07 PM

36 4.0 WATER USE IN 2001 In 2001, there was limited opportunity to utilise a flood within the Murray region similar to that which occurred in By August 2001, it appeared likely that there would be no widespread rainfall due to the continuing drought and so the MWWG moved to trade 15,000 ML on the temporary market via private water broker, generating ~$500,000. In addition, 4,661 ML was provided for: Up to 800 ML of AEW delivered to 11 wetlands on private property within the MIL Area of Operation (Watering of Private Wetlands Project); 600 ML of AEW delivered to Pollacks Swamp (subsequently postponed to 2003); and 3,261 ML AEW delivered to Werai Forest wetlands. There was a maximum of ~10,340 ML which could not be used for environmental flows. Neither could it be traded on the market as this would have exceeded the 50% trading rule. This remaining water could not be held over to the following year. 4.1 Watering of Private Wetlands Project Up to 800 ML for wetlands on private property within the MIL Area of Operation In late-2001, the MWWG initiated a pilot project to increase wetland diversity within the Murray Irrigation Area of Operation (MIL). Much of the region was once a single large floodplain that would only have been connected to the rivers in times of high flows, sometimes not for many years. Due to changes in land-use, draining of wetlands, building of levee banks and irrigation supply channels, these floodplain areas are now rarely flooded, not even in times of high rainfall events or high river flows. The aims of the project were to: Enhance the health of selected wetlands within MIL Area of Operation; Increase biodiversity and tree health; Test the level of landholder interest in wetland management; and 26 NSW pages.indd 27 9/2/06 1:53:13 PM

37 Develop and trial a wetland monitoring program. To undertake the project, the MWWG sought the co-operation of MIL to set up a process to provide water to wetlands on private landholders property. Following assessment by MWWG and MIL, eleven sites on private land (total area of ~232 ha) were chosen for a trial watering. Total final volumes used was 570 ML. Details of the eleven wetlands are provided in Table 2 and the location of sites is shown in Figure 10. This project improved the health of 11 temporary wetlands within the Murray Irrigation Ltd. Area of Operation during (Figures 11 to 13). There was a substantial increase in the diversity and health of wetland vegetation and in the number and diversity of wetland birds as a result of the watering, with no significant surface water quality concerns. Other fauna noted during the trial included various frogs, tadpoles and aquatic invertebrates (Alexander 2002). The landholder interest was extremely high with many keen to see their sites rewatered in a few years time. In general, landholders adhered to the guidelines which allowed them to access water; ie. excluding stock for the duration of inundation and not using water for productive purposes. Only minor breaches of these guidelines occurred which were unintentional and quickly resolved. Key highlights: Substantial improvement in wetland plant diversity; Improved tree health; Reduction in weeds; and Increased landholder awareness and understanding of wetland habitats. 27 NSW pages.indd 28 9/2/06 1:53:18 PM

38 Table 2. Private wetlands within Murray Irrigation Area of Operation which received water in 2001 from the Adapative Environmental Water. Landholder ID. Wetland area (hectares) Wetland type and dominant vegetation Water allocated (ML) Water used (ML) DB 10 Black box depression NSB 16 Riparian Black box PH 6 Black box depression BLH 5 River Red Gum swamp AJ 8.1 Black box depression CL 43 Black box/lignum swamp NKL 30 Black box floodrunner NKL 30 Black box floodrunner NN 34 Cumbungi swamp KP 13.6 Black box depression LSt 36 River Red Gum/lignum swamp Total NSW pages.indd 29 9/2/06 1:53:23 PM

39 Figure 9 The MIL Area of Operation (shaded blue) with red stars showing the location of wetlands which received water in NSW pages.indd 30 9/2/06 1:53:30 PM

40 Figure 10 Wetland near Deniliquin. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the above photo shows the same area 12 weeks after inundation. 30 NSW pages.indd 31 9/2/06 1:53:34 PM

41 Figure 11 Wetland near Wakool. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the above photo shows the same area 15 weeks after inundation. 31 NSW pages.indd 32 9/2/06 1:53:41 PM

42 Figure 12 Wetland near Jerilderie. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the above photo shows the same area 12 weeks after inundation. 32 NSW pages.indd 33 9/2/06 1:53:47 PM

43 4.2 Pollacks Swamp Infrastructure works were completed at Pollacks Swamp (Koondrook-Perricoota Forest), which included a regulator for controlling water from a private irrigation channel into NSW State Forest land (now Forests NSW). It is proposed that the Bringan Irrigation Trust, together with Forests NSW and the MWWG will manage the water into Pollacks Swamp in future. In 2001 the proposed watering of the Swamp was suspended due to the drought conditions. 4.3 Werai Forest Wetlands 3,261 ML for wetlands to determine Water Management Plan The Werai Forest is located 40km north-west of Deniliquin (NSW) and in 2003 was nominated as a Wetland of International Significance under the Ramsar Convention (Figure 14). In November 2001 a trial flooding of wetlands along the Tummudgery Creek in the Werai Forest was undertaken with the primary aim to identify the management complexities of providing water to these wetlands. The wetlands in the forest would have been connected to the river for an average of six months each year. In addition, the wetlands would have remained wet for a month or two after the floodwater had receded. Since the construction of the regulators in the Edward River, flooding frequency has been reduced and the wetland vegetation is diminishing as a result (Figure 15). To ensure there was a sufficient flow in the Edward River to flood these wetlands, water was transferred from the River Murray to the Edward River via the Mulwala Canal. It was found that 1,800 ML/day downstream Stevens Weir was required to start water flowing into the wetlands, but 2,150 ML/day was required to get a reasonable flow of 42 ML/day. It is estimated that a flow of 3,000ML/day at Stevens Weir will be required to provide large scale flooding of the forest. In total, 27,953 ML of water was transferred from the River Murray to the Edward River, of which 10% (the extra losses) was debited from the AEW. In addition, the amount of water that flowed into the forest was 466 ML, which brought the total amount of water debited from the AEW to 3,261 ML. 33 NSW pages.indd 34 9/2/06 1:53:53 PM

44 Monitoring of the AEW showed; ~ 137 ha of the forest was positively affected by the flooding; Growth of Moira Grass (Pseudoraphis spinecins) (in seed) and Common Water-milfoil (Myriophyllum propinquum) was initiated by the flooding; and Large number of waterbird nests (>100) located in River Red Gums at the western end of the wetland. To maintain the wetland diversity within the forest, water will have to be provided to the wetland sections of the forest on a more regular basis. Key Highlights: Successful delivery of water due to co-operation with State Water/MDBC/NSW DIPNR/Forests NSW and the former NSW EPA; and Draft Water Management Plan developed. % Edward River Area affected by trial flooding Rivers andcreeks % Regulators Werai Forest Neimur River % Tummudgery Creek W N E % Edward River S Colligen Creek Kilometres Figure 13 Location of Werai Forest, NSW (green shading with red area indicating area affected by first flooding in 2001). 34 NSW pages.indd 35 9/2/06 1:53:59 PM

45 Figure 14 Typical wetland areas inundated by the trial watering of Werai Forest in Use of Funds from Traded Water The remaining 15,000 ML was traded through a private broker, generating ~ $500,000. These funds were used for management and monitoring of the AEW, and to provide funds for rehabilitation works in wetlands (see Section 7). 35 NSW pages.indd 36 9/2/06 1:54:05 PM

46 5.0 WATER USE IN Trial Suspended 2002 proved to be one of the driest on record and opportunities to fully utilise the AEW were severely restricted. Irrigation allocations remained very low only reaching 10% of entitlement, the lowest on record. In consultation with MIL and DIPNR, the MWWG considered trading all of the available water. Consequently, 23,000 ML was placed on the MIL water exchange over a three-week period in late October, generating ~$3.8 million. Non-MIL shareholders above the Barmah Choke could buy water under a special arrangement with MIL. The MIL water exchange was used in response to feedback from the irrigation community who expressed concern over the use of private water brokers which can limit the accessibility of the water. DIPNR also proposed that the 3-year Water Use Trial be postponed for 2002 due to the exceptional climatic circumstances. The trial therefore resumed in Watering of Private Wetlands Project Despite the drought conditions, MIL and MWWG agreed to continue the Watering of Private Wetlands Project in 2002 following the outstanding success of this project in Participation increased substantially from 10 landholders in 2001, to 27 in 2002 (Figure 16). In summary: Total landholders involved: Total number of sites: Total hectares: Megalitres used (including MIL loss): 600 3, NSW pages.indd 37 9/2/06 1:54:10 PM

47 Many of the sites involved in the 2002 trial had not been flooded for up to 40 years. They included creeks that have been cut off by levee banks, lignum swamps, and Black Box depressions. Nine of the 27 sites were intensively monitored with methods refined from Monitoring showed: Increased abundance in existing wetland plants such as reeds (Eleocharis, Carex species), rushes (Juncus species) and Common Nardoo (Marsilea drummondii), as well as regeneration of several wetland plant species from the existing seed bank, or the water column (Figures 17 and 18); Black Box trees at all sites exhibited signs of new growth, flowering, and there was regeneration at some sites; Surface water salinity was fresh, usually below 400EC; A total of 106 bird species were recorded during the six months of monitoring and bird species diversity increased at all sites after inundation; Aquatic plants began flowering and setting seed 9-12 weeks after inundation; and There was improved landholder knowledge and appreciation of wetlands and the benefits of delivering water to these formerly dry sites (Alexander 2003). Key Highlights: Greater participation by individual landholders; Continued monitoring program showed positive results; and Successful collaboration with a major irrigation company. 37 NSW pages.indd 38 9/2/06 1:54:13 PM

48 Figure 15 The MIL Area of Operation (shaded blue) with red stars showing the location of wetlands which received water in 2001, and blue stars showing wetlands which received water in NSW pages.indd 39 9/2/06 1:54:19 PM

49 Figure 16 Wetland near Deniliquin. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the photo above shows the same area 6 weeks after inundation. 39 NSW pages.indd 40 9/2/06 1:54:32 PM

50 Figure 17 Wetland near Deniliquin. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the photo above shows the same area 18 weeks after inundation. 40 NSW pages.indd 41 9/2/06 1:54:40 PM

51 5.3 Pollacks Swamp The proposed watering of Pollacks Swamp was suspended at the request of the Bringan Irrigation Trust due to the continuation of drought conditions. 5.4 Use of Funds from Traded Water The continuing drought in the Murray Valley resulted in record high prices for water. The temporary trade of water in 2002 generated significant funds of ~ $3.8 million dollars for the NSW Water Administration Ministerial Corporation to use on wetland rehabilitation works. This is regarded as an exceptional circumstance and unlikely to be repeated in the near future. The funds generated from the sale of water were placed into a special account within the NSW Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, and arrangements made for regular payments to be made to the MWWG to enable their programs of wetland management and rehabilitation to continue (see Section 7). This arrangement will be revised in due to the potential transfer of the AEW license from the NSW Government to the Murray Catchment Management Authority. 41 NSW pages.indd 42 9/2/06 1:54:45 PM

52 6.0 WATER USE IN 2003 Due to good late winter-spring rainfalls, short periods of high (surplus) flows occurred in the Murray Valley. These high flows resulted in an increase in the number of sites in which portions of the AEW allocation could be diverted. 10,610 ML of the AEW was diverted to wetland watering projects in ML for private wetlands in MIL 1,600 ML for Gulpa Creek wetlands 950 ML for Pollacks Swamp 550 ML for Thegoa Lagoon to extend water levels primarily for vegetation. In addition, 11,910 ML was traded on the annual transfer market via the MIL Water Exchange (including 1,218 ML from Moira Lake water savings). This volume is reduced by 13% to account for losses within MIL and is applied to all water sold within the MIL Area of Operation. 6.1 Watering of Private Wetlands Project The Watering of Private Wetlands project was continued, with greater landholder participation than in previous years (Figure 19). A total of 49 sites received water, some of which have not been flooded for up to 40 years : Total landholders involved: 40 Total number of sites: 49 Total number of hectares: 902 Water used: 7,510 ML Monitoring showed similar results to previous years, confirming that there is continued and marked improvement of wetlands within the MIL Area of Operation (Figures 20 and 21) (Alexander 2004). 42 NSW pages.indd 43 9/2/06 1:54:51 PM

53 Key Highlights: The project becoming established and accepted within the region; Streamlining of administrative procedure; and Involvement of MIL Land and Water Management Plan Officers, resulting in greater participation and understanding of wetlands by landholders. 43 NSW pages.indd 44 9/2/06 1:54:58 PM

54 Figure 18 The MIL Area of Operation (blue area) with stars showing the location of wetlands which received water (red stars 2001, blue stars 2002, yellow stars 44 NSW pages.indd 45 9/2/06 1:55:07 PM

55 Figure 19 Wetland near Deniliquin. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the bottom photo shows the same area 12 weeks after inundation. 45 NSW pages.indd 46 9/2/06 1:55:20 PM

56 Figure 20 Wetland near Moulamein. Top photo shows the wetland before receiving water, and the bottom photo shows the same area 12 weeks after inundation. 46 NSW pages.indd 47 9/2/06 1:55:30 PM

57 6.2 Gulpa Creek wetlands 1,600 ML to extend water levels for vegetation in the Gulpa Creek wetlands. The project was conducted with assistance from NSW State Water and the MDBC (water delivery), and Forests NSW (vegetation monitoring). Gulpa Creek is a short, natural anabranch between the Murray and Edward Rivers in the Millewa forests south of Deniliquin (Figure 22 and 23). Extensive areas of wetland and River Red Gum forest surround the creek. Reed Beds Swamp (580 ha), Coppingers Lagoon (285 ha) and Duck Lagoon (250 ha) have high environmental value, particularly for nesting of colonial species of waterbirds. Under natural conditions, these wetlands were filled by winter spring floodwaters from the river, and dried over summer. Water only enters the wetlands now when flows are above 350ML/day in the Gulpa Creek (Lugg and Lloyd 1995). 47 NSW pages.indd 48 9/2/06 1:55:37 PM

58 Figure 21 Map of Gulpa Creek Wetlands (refer to Figure 2 for detailed map of location). 48 NSW pages.indd 49 9/2/06 1:55:44 PM

59 Figure 22 Aerial photo of Gulpa Creek wetlands (1999). Duck Lagoon and Reed Beds Swamp support some of the few remaining colonies of "colonialnesting" waterbirds in the Murray Valley. The main species are Straw-necked Ibis, Australian White Ibis and Royal Spoonbills. These breed most years, and construct their nests within the beds of Giant Rush (Juncus ingens) and Common Reed (Phragmites australis). Some years, when flood timing, depth and duration is suitable, thousands of pairs are present (Maher, undated). Severe drought conditions prevailed in the Murray Valley prior to 2003, and the vegetation community of Gulpa Creek wetlands was beginning to suffer and decline. For these reasons, 6,000 ML was allowed to extend water levels in the Gulpa Creek wetlands for maintaining aquatic vegetation. The project was conducted with assistance from NSW State Water and the MDBC (water delivery), and Forests NSW (vegetation monitoring). Forests NSW conducted a wetland inspection on 28 November 2003 to record vegetation and waterbird diversity and abundance in Duck Lagoon. Observations included: - The beds of Giant Rush in the open water and around the margins of the lagoon had responded quite well and (considering the prolonged state of dryness during the drought) appeared relatively healthy; 49 NSW pages.indd 50 9/2/06 1:55:52 PM

60 - Australian Darter (Anhinga melanogaster) and Little Black (Phalacrocorax sulcirostris) and Little Pied Cormorants (Phalacrocorax malanoleucos) nesting (and nest building) in two locations around the lagoon; - Australian White Ibis nesting in the Giant Rush beds to the south of the open water; and - 8 pair of Blue-billed Duck (Oxyura australis) (listed as vunerable on the schedules of the NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act) were observed on the lagoon on 23 October 2003 (observers: Paul Childs and David Leslie). A wetland inspection was also conducted in Reed Beds Swamp North on 16 December Observations were: - An abundance of aquatic and semi-aquatic plant species recorded growing around the perimeter of the swamp, many of which were in flower or seed; - Large masses of Moira Grass (in seed) and Common Water-milfoil (in flower); - Common Reed beds were lush and dense; - Large numbers of Australian White Ibis (> 100 individuals) and several Royal Spoonbill nesting (Figures 24 and 25); - Royal Spoonbill nesting around the swamp in the Giant Rush beds which had not fully recovered from the effects of the drought; and - 3 pair of Blue-billed Duck. Key highlights: Wetland vegetation improved, possibly preventing complete die-back; and Local community interest and enthusiasm. 50 NSW pages.indd 51 9/2/06 1:55:59 PM

61 Figure 23 Royal Spoonbills in breeding plumage at Gulpa Creek Wetlands, November 2003 (photo courtesy Jo Murphy) Figure 24 Australian White Ibis nesting at Gulpa Creek wetlands, November 2003 (photo courtesy Jo Murphy) 51 NSW pages.indd 52 9/2/06 1:56:35 PM

62 6.3 Pollacks Swamp 950 ML to confirm the water delivery capability of the irrigation channels and regulator, to establish other 'institutional' arrangements, and determine volumes required for future environmental watering. The trial watering of Pollacks Swamp was conducted with assistance from Bringan Irrigation Trust (water delivery), Barham Bird Observers Club and Forests NSW (vegetation monitoring). Pollacks Swamp is a 118 ha area within Koondrook-Perricoota Forest (NSW) (Figure 26). It supports the only remaining Egret breeding colony in Koondrook-Perricoota, and is one of only a handful of such colonies in the central/lower NSW Murray. Since regulation began, the frequency of flooding in the forest has been reduced as more than 25,000 ML/day is required for three months of inundation in spring to induce and sustain waterbird breeding. Under natural conditions, this 'trigger' was achieved in 46% of years. Under current conditions the trigger is met in only 13% of years, allowing River Redgum to encroach into formerly treeless areas once dominated by wetland vegetation. Subsequently, bird breeding events have also decreased (D. Leslie, pers. comm.). It is likely that the now dense River Red Gum thicket has altered the carbon dynamics of the wetland. More River Red Gum litter is produced, but less is consumed or decomposed because of less frequent flooding. This results in water quality problems when floodwaters recede, such as low dissolved Oxygen and high concentrations of polyphenols. While such 'Blackwater' events are natural, the problem is that river regulation has exacerbated the intensity of such events. For waterbirds, this has implications for their food supply (D. Leslie, pers. comm.). The trial flooding showed that delivery of 950ML was successfully achieved through infrastructure funded by the MWWG (Figure 27), and with the cooperation of Bringan Irrigation Trust. The area of flooding from the AEW was ~ 118 ha (excluding the lagoon) which encouraged an abundance of semi-aquatic grasses and forbs to grow around the swamp margin (Figure 28). Observations included: - Large masses of Swamp Wallaby Grass (Amphibromus), Blown Grass (Agrostis) and Joyweed (Alternanthera) species, of which included River Swamp Wallaby Grass (Amphibromus fluitans), a species listed as vulnerable under Schedule 2 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act (TSCA). Many of the plant species were in full seed; 52 NSW pages.indd 53 9/2/06 1:56:41 PM

63 - Large number of waterbirds, comprising primarily of Pacific Black Duck (Anas superciliosa), Grey Teal (Anas gracilis), Hardhead (Aythya australis) and Australasian Grebe (Tachybaptus novaehollandiae); and - Large numbers of duckling, which were predominantly Teal, and several of the Grebes were noted to have 3 to 4 young each. A floating (Australasian Grebe) nest was also observed in the lagoon. Future management of the swamp should focus on providing more regular watering opportunities to allow wetland vegetation to be maintained and expand as habitat for birds and other wetland fauna. It is recognised that achieving a one in two year flood as would have occurred under natural conditions is unlikely. Key highlights: Established a benchmark of condition for future watering of the wetland; Provided information regarding extent of watering in forest and volumes required for future watering; and Successful co-operation and collaboration between Forests NSW/Bringan Irrigation Trust/ (former)nsw EPA/NSW DIPNR and the MWWG. 53 NSW pages.indd 54 9/2/06 1:57:24 PM

64 B a r b ers C reek Koondrook State Forest Pollack Lagoon Pollack Swamp G onn R oad Legend Roads Wetland Major Drainage Stat e Forest Boundary N Meters 1: Figure 25 Map of Pollacks Swamp (courtesy Forests NSW) 54 NSW pages.indd 55 9/2/06 1:57:32 PM

65 Figure 26 The regulator on the Bringan Irrigation Trust channel that allows water into Pollacks Swamp Figure 27 There was an abundance of native grass species that grew around the perimeter of Pollack Swamp after the floodwater receded. The photograph also shows the healthy condition of the River Red Gums (photo courtesy Paul Childs, Forests NSW, November 2003) 55 NSW pages.indd 56 9/2/06 1:58:25 PM

66 6.4 Thegoa Lagoon Thegoa Lagoon received 550 ML to extend water levels for vegetation. Thegoa Lagoon is a natural floodplain wetland located downstream of the Darling and River Murray confluence, in south-west New South Wales (Figure 29). The Lagoon has a surface area of approximately hectares (ha) (RMWD, 2003). The Lagoon has been influenced by river regulation flows since Flood water can enter the Lagoon via the western end when flows are approximately 60,000 ML/day past Lock 10 weir. Modelling indicates that flows of this magnitude would have occurred seven years in 10 under pre-regulation conditions, however this may now only occur four years in 10 under current river management (D. Green, MDBC). Figure 28 Location of Thegoa Lagoon, Wentworth NSW 56 NSW pages.indd 57 9/2/06 1:58:37 PM

67 In 1998/99 an interim water supply policy for Thegoa Lagoon was developed by the former Department of Land and Water Conservation, recognising that the Lagoon is an ephemeral system, and therefore should not be permanently inundated (Thegoa Lagoon Management Plan, 1998). From December 2000 to August 2003 the Lagoon underwent a 32-month drying phase, drying out 100% for the first time since the 1970s. The announcement of a surplus flow event in the River Murray, in August 2003, meant that the Lagoon could be re-wetted. The surplus flow volume was followed by an Adaptive Environmental Water (AEW) volume of 550 ML to continue the inundation of the Lagoon until mid-december 2003 (Figure 30). A positive ecological response was observed in the Lagoon as a result of receiving AEW (in addition to surplus flows). Monitoring showed: An increase in the number of waterbirds species (Figure 31), including the Vulnerable listed Blue-billed Duck (NSW Threatened Species Conservation Act); 75% of plants recorded were native species; Diversity of plants and water depths created a mosaic of wetland habitats within the Lagoon; The submerged plant Ribbon weed (Vallisneria americana) colonised 1 ha. During previous inundations of the lagoon no patches of this size had been recorded; 5 frog species were recorded; and Water quality results were well below recommended thresholds for the protection of freshwater ecosystems. A comprehensive report is given in D Santos, P (2004). Thegoa Lagoon Ecological Monitoring to a Refilling Event The project was conducted with assistance from Wentworth Shire Council and State Water (water delivery), Sunraysia Bird Observers Club (bird monitoring), MDFRC (water quality and sediment response experiment), DIPNR (flow rate monitoring), and MWWG (groundwater, surface water and vegetation monitoring and photopoints). Key Highlights: Validation of the need to wet and dry this wetland; Valuable insight to groundwater processes within region; Generated considerable community and Local Government interest; and Establishment of a Thegoa Lagoon Management Committee. 57 NSW pages.indd 58 9/2/06 1:59:23 PM

68 Figure 29 Thegoa Lagoon during dry phase, July 2002 (top), and after receiving an environmental flow, January 2004 (photos courtesy Paula D Santos) 58 NSW pages.indd 59 9/2/06 1:59:33 PM

69 Black-winged Stilt (Himantopus himantopus) Australian White Ibis (Threskiornis molucca) Australian Pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus) Black Swan (Cygnus atratus) with young Figure 30 Various bird species found in the Murray and Lower Murray-Darling Catchment (photos taken at Thegoa Lagoon after receiving an Adaptive Environmental Water Flow in Courtesy Paula D Santos) 59 NSW pages.indd 60 9/2/06 2:00:21 PM