15 February 2008
TACKLING WILLOWS IN JACKSONS CREEK
Melbourne Water will begin work next month to remove willows and other weeds from Jacksons Creek in Gisborne and replace them with 2000 native trees and shrubs.
Melbourne Water’s general manager of Waterways, Chris Chesterfield, said the project would involve removing willows, blackberries, ragwort and gorse from a section of the creek between Dixon Field and Sankey Reserve.
“We’ve made a long-term commitment to protecting and improving rivers and creeks in this region, and weed removal is a key part of this effort.
“Although in many cases willows look very attractive, there are strong environmental reasons for removing them.
“Weeds are a big threat to waterways as they grow vigorously and can have a major impact on water quality and native plant species.
“Their dense roots reduce habitat for platypus and native fish, and they can cause reduced flows and sometimes flooding.”
Mr Chesterfield said Melbourne Water had worked closely with the Friends of Jacksons Creek and the Macedon Ranges Shire during the planning stage of the project.
“These works will complement previous willow removal work undertaken by the Friends group two years ago,” Mr Chesterfield said.
The weeds will be removed using a combination of herbicide application and physical removal weed control techniques.
Planting will be done over a two year period, in the wetter winter and spring months.
“The area will be replanted with 2000 native trees and shrubs, which will gradually fill out and create a better habitat for native birds and animals,” Mr Chesterfield said.
These works are part of Melbourne Water’s Healthy Rivers Program, which is funded by the Waterways and Drainage Charge.