Sustainable Water
Forestry Corporation of NSW ($49,501), ILWS and CSUs Faculty of Science
Professor Robyn Watts, Dr Julia Howitt, Dr Ben Wolfenden, Dr Nicole McCasker and Dr Kim Jenkins
The floods in Spring 2016 were the trigger for this project which studied the effects of flows from the Murray River through the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest on the productivity of the Wakool River.
The project complements the long term environmental flows project underway in the Edward-Wakool river system.
For this study, researchers evaluated the effects of factors such as flow, water temperature, dissolved carbon and nutrients on the river's productivity which was assessed by measurements of the river's metabolisam, and abundance and diversity of micro-invertebrates. Weekly field sampling began in August and continued until the end of November.
Presentations have been made to the Edward-Wakool Environmental Water Reference Group and to the Koondrook-Perricoota forum and annual workshop. A draft report has been submitted. An aquatic plants paper to explore the links between monitoring and management at the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest is being prepared.
The project was a "once in 20 year opportunity to study the effects of a large flood going through the forest." The research will assist future management of the Koondrook-Perricoota Forest and inform management of other riverine ecosystems.
CONTACT
Professor Robyn Watts email
Dr Julia Howitt email
April 2017