Work to commence at Mother of Ducks Lagoon

Media release: 4 May 2016

Work is about to commence at Mother of Ducks Lagoon to improve the lagoon's catchment, enhancing the flooding regime of this important waterbird wetland while reducing flooding at the Guyra golf course.

Ranger Neil Reckord said the lagoon contained an Endangered Ecological Community and provides important habitat for threatened species like Lathams Snipe.

"The project is being funded by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service in consultation with Guyra Shire Council and the Guyra Bowling and Recreation Club.

"It will involve replacing an old blocked pipe, with new larger capacity pipes to improve water catchment in the lagoon.

"The original pipe was installed in 1988 when the levee was built, to use some of the stormwater running past the Scout Hall and through the golf course to compensate for the reduction in the lagoon's catchment. Unfortunately the pipe has not provided water into the lagoon for a number of years.

"While it is quite natural for wetlands to have periods of being partially or completely dry, the lagoon has been dry for some time and reinstating a better water flow will be beneficial.

"The grasses and insects that build up during the dry periods provide an abundance of food for a range of species including the migratory Lathams Snipe, once you add water.

"Work will take place during normal working hours and will be scheduled to minimise disruption to golfers and in fact will be routed between fairways so casual golfers should not be disrupted," Mr Reckord said.

For further information contact Ranger Neil Reckord on 02 67389100.

Contact: Jacki Roberts