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Healthy Waterways StrategyWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Developed to support the Westernport Catchment Collaboration

Go to Table of Contents

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Table of ContentsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Section & Sheet Titles Page

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e. Estuary Value metricsf. Estuary Condition metrics

b. Waterway Condition metricsc. Wetland Value metricsd. Wetland Condition metrics

o. Yallock Creek

4. Metricsa. Key Value Metrics

l. Tooradin Road Drainm. Warringine Creekn. Watson Creek

i. Merricks Creekj. Olivers Creekk. Stony Creek (WPB)

k. Mornington Peninsula Western Creeksl. King Parrot and Musk Creeks

b. Dalmore Outfalls

French and Phillip Islands

c. Cardinia, Toomuc, Deep and Ararat Creeksd. Lang Lang Rivere.

h.

Deep Creek

g. Lang Lang floodplain

b.

Bunyip River Middle and Upperi. Mornington Peninsula North‐Eastern Creeks

g. Tarago River

a.

a. Westernport Catchment3.2. Waterways Management Unit Summaries

3.3. Wetland Summaries

Go to Cover Sheet

g. Kings Creekh. Lang Lang River

a.Retarding Basins with biodiversity values in the Westernport catchment e.g. Cardinia Creek Retarding Basin

c. Bunyip Riverd. Cardinia Creek

h. Yallock Creek floodplain

a. Balcombe Creek

f. Westernport (including coastal wetlands)

e. Chinamans Creekf.

3.4. Estuary Summaries

e. Tootgarook Swamp (Boneo Swamp/ Browns Road)

Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.

j. Mornington Peninsula South‐Eastern Creeks

c. Leisure Land Wetlandsd. The Briars

b. Coolart Wetlands

3. Target Summaries3.1. Catchment Summary



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o. Yallock Creek





b. Dalmore Outfalls



h.

Deep Creek


b.


g. Tarago River

a.



Go to Cover Sheet





a. Balcombe Creek





Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.



b. Coolart Wetlands




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o. Yallock Creek





b. Dalmore Outfalls



h.

Deep Creek


b.


g. Tarago River

a.



Go to Cover Sheet





a. Balcombe Creek





Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.



b. Coolart Wetlands




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o. Yallock Creek





b. Dalmore Outfalls



h.

Deep Creek


b.


g. Tarago River

a.



Go to Cover Sheet





a. Balcombe Creek





Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.



b. Coolart Wetlands




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o. Yallock Creek





b. Dalmore Outfalls



h.

Deep Creek


b.


g. Tarago River

a.



Go to Cover Sheet





a. Balcombe Creek





Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.



b. Coolart Wetlands




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o. Yallock Creek





b. Dalmore Outfalls



h.

Deep Creek


b.


g. Tarago River

a.



Go to Cover Sheet





a. Balcombe Creek





Bass River

Bass River

Bunyip Lowerf.



b. Coolart Wetlands


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Target SummariesSection 3.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


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Catchment SummarySub‐Section 3.1.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


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Waterway Targets

Potential trajectory moderate high moderatemoderatemoderatemoderatevery high high high

2017 (actual) moderate low moderatemoderatemoderate low high high high

Current trajectory low high low low low very lowmoderatemoderatemoderate

Waterway Values (10‐50 year targets)• Birds are currently moderate, with 249 species recorded, of which 131 are expected in riparian habitats. Of note is the

Ramsar‐listed Western Port; riparian areas in forested headwaters; Tootgarook Swamp on the Mornington Peninsula; and bird colonies on Phillip Island. The current trajectory is low; and target is to maitain at moderate.

• Fish are currently high, with 18 native freshwater species and eight exotic species recorded in the catchment; includes nationally significant species Dwarf galaxias, Australian grayling , Australian mudfish and pale mangrove goby. The current trajectory is high; and target is to improve to high.

• Frogs are currently moderate, with up to 14 species of frogs expected to occur across the catchment; this includes threatened species such as the Growling Grass Frog and the Southern Toadlet.The current trajectory is low; and target is to maitain at moderate.

• Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, with scores higher in forested headwaters and lower in areas affected by urbanisation.The current trajectory is low; and target is to maitain at moderate.

• Platypus are currently moderate, with poplulations occurring in rivers and creeks in the Bunyip, Tarago and Lang Lang river systems. The current trajectory is low; and target is to maitain at moderate.

• Vegetation is currently low, but varies from very low to very high, with much of the high areas being in forested upper catchments, along the coast of Western Port, and in the large regional parks. The current trajectory is very low; and target is to improve to moderate.

• Amenity, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline with increased urbanisation; target is to improve to very high.

• Community connection, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline with increased urbanisation; target is to maitain at high.

• Recreation, which is based on level of satisfaction, is currently high but likely to decline with increased urbanisation; target is to maintin at high.

• Cultural The traditional lands of the Boon Wurrung and Bunurong are in the south and central areas of the catchment, and these lands meet those of the Gunai Kurnai to the far east, and Wurundjeri to the north. More than 2000 Aboriginal sites have been recorded, with most of these occurring near waterways and along the coast .

• Economic Primary industries include dairy farming, beef production, poultry, horticulture and quarrying.

• Stakeholders and the broader community are knowledgeable, engaged and working together to value and improve waterways• creating a legacy of stewardship

• Diverse and abundant native animals and plants are supported through connected habitats within and along waterways and across landscapes• only local indigenous plant species along all streams• impact of feral animals on waterways eliminated

• Waterways across the catchment are managed for long term ecological resilience, balancing the needs for regional flood mitigation, agriculture, industry and urbanisation• water reuse systems offset losses due to climate change• balanced management of natural and modified waterways for fluvial processes

• Waterways across the catchment are managed to maintain and improve coastal and marine ecosystems in Western Port and Port Phillip Bay

Vision: Waterways are highly valued and sustained by an informed and engaged community working together to protect and improve their value.

Westernport Catchment

Goals

Very Low Low Moderate High Very High

Performance objectives (achieve in 1‐10 years)• Improve condition and extent of riparian vegetation in rural and urban areas by protecting high

quality vegetation, managing threats and building resilience • Improve environmental flows and protect drought refuges in the context of climate change• Provide connectivity for fish along major waterways through removal of barriers• Reduce nutrient and sediment runoff from rural land and areas of urban development; ensure no net

increase in nutrient and sediment loads to protect the health of Port Phillip and Western Port Bays• Protect and improve high quality wetlands within the catchment and fill knowledge gaps for

remaining wetlands to inform future management actions• Reduce impacts of stormwater on waterways; focus on urban growth and rural townships• Protect and improve signficant environmental and social values of estuaries, including managing

impacts of climate change• Traditional Owners are supported to recognise, protect and promote intangible and tangible cultural

values and to have a role in protecting and improving waterways• Provide systems to share knowledge and information between communities and stakeholders; to

empower communities to participate and influence waterways management• Protect vegetation, amenity and other social values along the urban creeks • Improve understanding of existing rules around land management practices and increase resourcing

for enforcement, capacity building and behaviour change• Address significant risks to values from pollution (water quality) from emerging contaminants of

concern such as microplastics, pesticides and pharmaceuticals

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Waterways Management Unit SummariesSub‐Section 3.2.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


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Bass River Management Unit

Values – current status, trajectory and target (10-50 year targets)

Conditions – current status, trajectory and target (10-50 year targets)

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

Performance Objectives (1-10 years)‐

1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

NOTE: PRELIMINARY TARGETS ONLYFOR DISCUSSION

Melbourne WaterDELWPParks VictoriaPP&WP CMACouncilsCommunity groupsLandcare groupsTraditional ownersEPAVPAWater corpsIndustryVicRoadsVEWH

Increase participation rates in capacity building and citizen science programs from moderate to high

Stormwater condition is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high

Water for environment is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation quality is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Vegetation extent is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Instream connectivity is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

50 per cent of waterway within the management unit will meet ecological watering objectives

Access is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

Participation is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 55% to 65% (around 1.5 km) along the main stem of the Bass River from the mouth to the Tennent Creek confluence; and from 60% to 70% (around 2.5 kms) along the main stem of the Bass River and Allsop Creek to the confluence with Bellview Creek

Protect and enhance high quality vegetation along Allsop Creek; Bass River upstream of Poowong; and Bass River downstream of Tennent Creek

Reduce threat to seagrass in Western Port by managing sediment loads from construction activities by ensuring no polluted or sediment laden runoff enters drains and watercourses

Water quality ‐ recreational is currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation canopy cover is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Litter absence is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very highImplementation Partners

The Bass River rises near Korumburra in the South Gippsland Highlands, flowing though Glen Forbes and Bass before entering Western Port north of San Remo. The Bass River has geological and geomorphic significance, featuring river terraces and alluvial deltas.

Vegetation is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Amenity is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Connection is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Recreation is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Water quality ‐ environmental is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Birds are currently insufficient data, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low

Fish is currently low, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Frogs are currently insufficient data, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateMacroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low

Platypus is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory

Potential trajectory

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Dalmore Outfalls Management Unit



‐

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‐

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‐

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1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Dalmore Outfalls consist of a number of waterways that flow into Western Port via the townships of Pearcedale, Devon Meadows, Clyde and Tooradin. The waterways include Langwarrin Creek, Christies Drain, Wylies Drain, Western Outfall Drain and Tooradin Road Drain.

Birds are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Fish is currently very low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Frogs are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Water quality ‐ recreational is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high



Amenity is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Connection is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Recreation is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Water quality ‐ environmental is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Stormwater condition is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Water for environment is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate


Vegetation extent is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Instream connectivity is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high

Implementation Partners

Vegetation canopy cover is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 23% (about 10 km) and maintain existing treesMelbourne WaterDELWPParks VictoriaPP&WP CMACouncilsCommunity groupsLandcare groupsTraditional ownersEPAVPAWater corpsIndustryVicRoadsVEWH

Litter absence is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high

Increase access along waterways to 20% (about 5 km of path)Access is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low




Have in place methods to assess volume and source of litter to inform litter reduction programs


Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 33% to 43% (around 1.5 km) along the main stem of Langwarrin Creek East Branch

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


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Cardinia, Toomuc, Deep and Ararat Creeks Management Unit



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1‐

2

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3

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4

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5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Cardinia, Toomuc and Deep Creeks rise in the Dandenong Ranges. Ararat Creek lies to the east of the system, rising north of Pakenham. The catchment includes the townships of Upper Beaconsfield, Pakenham, Nar Nar Goon and Dalmore. The system historically flowed into the Koo Wee Rup Swamp before the swamp was drained in the late 1800s, and a straight channel was excavated through the area to create an outlet for the creeks to Western Port near Koo Wee Rup. Birds are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate




Platypus is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Vegetation is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate



Recreation is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high


Stormwater condition is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Water for environment is currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Vegetation quality is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Vegetation extent is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Instream connectivity is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high


Vegetation canopy cover is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 70% to 75% (around 3 km) along Cardinia Creek from the headwaters to Ballarto Rd (inlcuding Stoney and Grassmere Creeks); from 75% to 80% (around 1 km) along upper Toomuc Creek (upstream of Hein Road); and from 80% to 100% (around 1 km) along upper Deep Creek (upstream of Settlement Road)



Protect and enhance high quality vegetation along middle and upper reaches of Cardinia Creek (inlcuding protection of endangered Swampy Riparian Woodland), Stoney Creek, Muddy Creek and Bourke Creek (Upper Toomuc Creek) through managing threats from invasive flora and fauna

Access is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Treat any new development (e.g. Officer) in the Cardinia Creek catchment so DCI levels are maintained and do not exceed 2% at Cardinia Rd. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.5 ML/y and infiltrating 1.9 ML/y. This is about 6.3 GL/y and 2.2 GL/y for full development to urban growth boundary.




Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 46% (equivalent to 4 km) and maintain existing trees

Increase access along waterways to 20% (equivalent to 20 km of path)



Reduce threats to water quality by reducing sediments and nutrients from upper reaches of the waterways of Deep Creek, Stony Creek and Toomuc Creek

Reduce threats across both rural and urban land from toxicants such as pesticides to protect Ramsar values in Western Port

High priority Low Flow Dependent Ecosystems are managed as guided by the Low Flow Dependent Ecosystem Plan to protect and maintain them in the landscape

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectivity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absen

ce

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


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Lang Lang River Management Unit



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3

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4

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5

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8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

The headwaters of the Lang Lang River rise in the Strzelecki Ranges near Poowong. The river flows north initially until it meets O’Mahoneys’ Creek, then flows west before entering Western Port near the Lang Lang township. Other tributaries include Minnieburn Creek, Pheasant Creek, Adams Creek, Red Bluff Creek, Little Lang Lang River and Eliza Creek.



Frogs are currently insufficient data, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate


Platypus is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate









Vegetation extent is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Instream connectivity is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of very high



Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 40% to 52% (around 17 km) along the entire main stem of the Lang Lang River (including major tributaries such as Minnieburn and O'Mahoney Creeks, Little Lang Lang River and Pheasant Creek)



Treat any new development (e.g. Nyora) in the Little Lang Lang River catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.2%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.7 ML/y and infiltrating 2.1 ML/y. This is about 11 ML/y and 4 ML/y for full development to urban growth boundary.


Treat any new development in the Adams Creek catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.1%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.6 ML/y and infiltrating 2.0 ML/y. This is about 220 ML/y and 80 ML/y for full development to urban growth boundary.



Increase tree canopy cover along waterways by about 9 km and maintain existing trees


Provide continuity of fish passage along Lang Lang River from mouth to headwaters by removing barriers at Heads Rd and Western Port Rd.

Reduce sediment and nutrient run‐off from rural and urban land management to protect waterways and Western Port



2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water qua

lity ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectivity

Water qua

lity ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absen

ce

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


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Bunyip Lower Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

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1 ‐

2 ‐

3 ‐

4 ‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Bunyip River originates upstream of the forested Bunyip State Park. The middle and upper sections of the Bunyip River lie upstream of the Princes Freeway. The lower Bunyip River extends from the Princes Freeway through the former Koo Wee Rup Swamp and enters Western Port near Koo Wee Rup. Other waterways in this area include Yallock Creek and Monomeith Drain.


Fish is currently moderate, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Frogs are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate


Platypus is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate






Stormwater condition is currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high

Water for environment is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high


Vegetation extent is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low



Vegetation canopy cover is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover along the main stem of the Bunyip River (ensuring hydraulic capacity is retained – e.g. widely spaced trees to provide shade)



Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 31% (about 4 km) and maintain existing trees Access is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

Have in place methods to assess volume and source of litter to inform litter reduction programs Participation is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high




Environmental water reserve is increased 10 GL by 2025 to meet ecological watering objectives

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


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French and Phillip Islands Management Unit



‐

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1 ‐

2 ‐

3 ‐

4 ‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

The French and Phillip Islands Management Unit includes the two largest islands in Western Port. The major waterways within French Island are Tankerton, Redhill and Mosquito creeks. Waterways on Phillip Island include Saltwater Creek and Swan Lake Drain. Swan Lake is a permanent freshwater lake that provides habitat for numerous species of waterbirds. Rhyll Inlet and other estuaries support internationally listed wetlands, habitat and animals, especially migratory wading birds. Birds are currently moderate, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Fish is currently moderate, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high

Frogs are currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high



Vegetation is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Amenity is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

Connection is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

Recreation is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

Water quality ‐ environmental is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate




Vegetation extent is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate



Vegetation canopy cover is currently very low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Treat any new development (e.g. Cowes and Ventnor) in the Saltwater Creek catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.8%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.0 ML/y and infiltrating 1.5 ML/y. This is about 110 ML/y and 30 ML/y for full development to urban growth boundary





Increase participation rates in capacity building and citizen science programs from moderate to high Participation is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high


Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 20% to 35% (around 1.5 kms) along Saltwater Creek; and from 10% to 30% (around 5 kms) along Redhill Creek

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


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Tarago River Management Unit



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3 ‐

4 ‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

The Tarago River rises in the Tarago State Forest. The Tarago East Branch rises near Nayook and flows through predominantly rural land before joining the Tarago West Branch just upstream of the Tarago Reservoir at Neerim. Downstream of the reservoir, the river flows through Rokeby and Robin Hood before joining the Bunyip River at Longwarry North. Tributaries of the Tarago River include Labertouche, Whiskey, Gum Scrub and Spion Kopje creeks. Birds are currently insufficient data, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Fish is currently moderate, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Frogs are currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high


Platypus is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high





Water quality ‐ environmental is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Stormwater condition is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Water for environment is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation quality is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Vegetation extent is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high

Instream connectivity is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high



Environmental water reserve is increased to meet ecological watering objectives (Refer Bunyip Lower) Melbourne WaterDELWPParks VictoriaPP&WP CMACouncilsCommunity groupsLandcare groupsTraditional ownersEPAVPAWater corpsIndustryVicRoadsVEWH


Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 50% to 60% (around 11 kms) along the Tarago River downstream of the reservoir including Labertouche and Muddy Creeks

Access is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Treat any new development (e.g. Drouin) in the Tarago River catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.5%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 6.0 ML/y and infiltrating 2.5 ML/y. This is about 2.9 GL/y and 1.2 GL/y for full development to urban growth boundary.



Increase access along waterways in rural townships (about 1 km of path)


Protect and enhance high quality vegetation along middle and upper Labertouche Creek (including protection of the endangered Swampy Riparian Woodland EVC, the Warragul burrowing cray) and the Tarago River upstream of the reservoir through managing threats from invasive flora and fauna

Reduce threat to water quality by reducing run off impacts from rural and forest land management in Tarago River catchment and Labertouche Creek to protect waterways and Western Port


2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

nqu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absen

ce

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 28 of 65

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of 50

Bunyip River Middle and Upper Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high

The Bunyip River originates upstream of the forested Bunyip State Park. The middle and upper sections of the Bunyip River lie upstream of the Princes Freeway. Much of the catchment is within the State Park, and major tributaries include Back, Diamond, Two Mile Cannibal, Diamond and Tea Tree creeks.

Birds are currently moderate, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Fish is currently moderate, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high


Water quality ‐ recreational is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Platypus is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high





Water quality ‐ environmental is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high


Water for environment is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Vegetation quality is currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation extent is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high

Instream connectivity is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high


Vegetation canopy cover is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 77% to 82% (around 8 kms) along the main stem of Bunyip River and all major tributaries



Protect and enhance high quality vegetation along all waterways in the Bunyip State Park, and along the Bunyip River (including Rysons Creek), through managing threats from invasive flora and fauna (including protecting sections with endangered Cool Temperate Rainforest and Swampy Riparian Woodland EVCs)


Reduce threat to water quality from nutrients and sediment run‐off derived from rural and forest land management to protect waterways and Western Port




Increase access along waterways in townships (about 1 km of path)



2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 29 of 65

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of 50

Mornington Peninsula North-Eastern Creeks Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low

The Mornington Peninsula North‐Eastern Creeks management unit abuts the north western section of Western Port – from Pearcedale around to the Cerberus Naval base. Watson Creek originates in Baxter and flows through predominantly rural land before entering Western Port via Watson Inlet. Watson Inlet forms part of the Yaringa Marine National Park. Olivers, Kings and Warringine Creeks all flow east from the peninsula to enter Westernport around Hastings. Birds are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Fish is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate


Water quality ‐ recreational is currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high





Recreation is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high


Stormwater condition is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low



Vegetation extent is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low




Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 75% to 100% (around 1.5 kms) along the entire length of Warringine Creek (including tributary)



Reduce threat to Yerringa National Park and coastal wetlands by improving rural land management to reduce impacts from pesticides, sediment and nutrients for the catchments extending from Sawtells Inlet to Watsons Creek estuary


Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 39% (about 2 km) and maintain existing treesParticipation is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high



Reduce threat to sea grass in Western Port by managing sediment loads from construction activities by ensuring no polluted or sediment laden runoff enters drains and watercourses

Increase access along waterways to 10% (about 5 km of path)



2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 30 of 65

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of 50

Mornington Peninsula South-Eastern Creeks Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1‐

2‐

3‐

4

‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

The Mornington Peninsula South‐Eastern Creeks management unit includes the waterways that flow into Western Port and Bass Strait between Sandy Point and Cape Schanck, and the corridor of the Mornington Peninsula National Park running north‐west from Cape Schanck. Major waterways in the region include Main Creek, Splitters Creek, Spring Creek, Stockyard Creek, Manton Creek, Stony Creek, East Creek, Coolart Creek and Merricks Creek. Birds are currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Fish is currently moderate, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high


Water quality ‐ recreational is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low

Platypus is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate






Stormwater condition is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of very high



Vegetation extent is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Instream connectivity is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate



Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 83% to 100% (around 1 kilometre) along the entire length of Stony Creek; and from 67% to 74% (around 2.4 kms) along the entire length of Main Creek including Lightwood Creek



Improve vegetation quality from moderate to high along the upper reaches of Stony Creek and protect the endangered Swampy Riparian Woodland and Damp Forest EVCs


Treat any new development (e.g. Main Ridge) in the Main Creek catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.5%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.4 ML/y and infiltrating 1.8 ML/y. For ultimate development, this is anticipated to be 100 ML/y and 30 ML/y.





Reduce threat to sea grass in Western Port by managing sediment loads from construction activities by ensuring no polluted or sediment laden runoff enters drains and watercourses

Protect high quality vegetation along Lightwood Creek (tributary of Main Creek) and Manton Creek (south branch) through managing threats from invasive flora and fauna and protect endangered EVCs along this reach (such as Damp Forest)



2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

nqu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absen

ce

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 31 of 65

PRELIM

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of 50

Mornington Peninsula Western Creeks Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low

The Mornington Peninsula Western Creeks management unit extends from Mount Eliza to Point Nepean. Major waterways in this area include Balcombe, Kackeraboite, Devilbend, Brokil, Dunns, Sheepwash and Drum Drum Alloc Creeks, all of which flow into Port Phillip Bay. The area also includes the Tootgarook Swamp and Devilbend Reservoir.

Birds are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Fish is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high









Stormwater condition is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate



Vegetation extent is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Instream connectivity is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high



Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 70% to 75% (around 500 metres) along Drum Drum Alloc Creek upstream of the Mornington Peninsula Fwy; from 75% to 100% (around 600 metres) along Waterfall Creek upstream of the Mornington Peninsula Fwy; from 34% to 48% (around 7 kms) along Dunns Creek upstream of Nepean Hwy; from 57% to 65% (around 500 metres) along Sheepwash Creek upstream of the Mornington Peninsula Fwy; and from from 35% to 40% (around 4 kms) along Balcombe Creek (and tributaries)



Treat any new development in the Drum Drum Allock Creek catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.2%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.1 ML/y and infiltrating 1.6 ML/y. This is about 110 ML/y and 35 ML/y for full development to urban growth boundary.


Improve vegetation quality from moderate to high along the lower reaches of Balcombe Creek downstream of Devil Bend Creek and protect endangered EVCs (such as Swampy Riparian Woodland)





Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 48% (about 2 km) and maintain existing trees



2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 32 of 65

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INARY






of 50

King Parrot and Musk Creeks Management Unit



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1‐

2‐

3‐

4‐

5

6

7

8

9

10

Macroinvertebrates are currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

King Parrot and Musk Creeks, which are tribuatries of Bunyip River, flow from the hills on the western slopes of the Strzelecki Ranges, between the townships of Drouin and Poowong.


Fish is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

Frogs are currently very low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate


Platypus is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate






Stormwater condition is currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high



Vegetation extent is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of very high

Instream connectivity is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of low



Treat any new development (e.g. Drouin) in the King Parrot catchment so DCI levels remain below 0.5%. For every hectare of new impervious area, this requires harvesting 5.7 ML/y and infiltrating 2.1 ML/y. This is about 2.0 GL/y and 0.8 GL/y for full development to urban growth boundary.



Increase tree canopy cover along waterways to 35% (equivalent to 3 km) and maintain existing treesAccess is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

Increase access along waterways in townships (about 1 km of path)Participation is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high




Improve environmental waterway values by increasing riparian vegetation cover from 30% to 40% (around 5 kms) along Musk and King Parrots Creeks upstream of Modella

2017 (actual)

Birds

Fish

Frogs

Macroinverteb

rat

es Platypus

Vegetatio

n

Amen

ity

Conn

ectio

n

Recreatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water quality ‐

environm

ental

Stormwater

cond

ition

Water fo

ren

vironm

ent

Vegetatio

n qu

ality

Vegetatio

n extent

Instream

conn

ectiv

ity

Water quality ‐

recreatio

nal

Vegetatio

ncano

py cover

Litter absence

Access

Participation

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2A0T

Current trajectory


Page 33 of 65

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INARY






of 50

Wetland SummariesSub‐Section 3.3.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


Page 34 of 65

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Retarding Basins with biodiversity values in the Westernport catchment e.g. Cardinia Creek Retarding Basin

Values – current status, trajectory and target

Conditions – current status, trajectory and target

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

Performance Objectives

1

2

3

4


0

Ensure that the flood mitigation design intent of wetland flood retarding basin sites is retained, whilst considering site biodiversity values identified in the site

0

0

Water regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very lowWetland habitat form is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland buffer condition is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of lowVegetation condition is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland water quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

0

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

Fish are currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 35 of 65

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Coolart Wetlands



‐ ‐

‐ ‐

‐ ‐

‐ ‐

‐ ‐


1

2

3

Wetland water quality is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Reduce threat to birds from invasive fauna such as cats and foxes

Coolart Wetlands are located at Somers. They are part of a historic farming property managed by Parks Victoria for its historical and wetland significance. The wetlands include part of a natural waterway and a number of artificial wetlands.

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very low

No data

Vegetation are currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high


Water regime is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland habitat form is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of highWetland buffer condition is currently low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of lowVegetation condition is currently very high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Improve wetland buffer to 50 per cent of wetland perimeter

0

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

egetation cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 36 of 65

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of 50

Leisure Land Wetlands



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Wetland water quality is currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

0

Leisure Land wetland is an artificial wetland located in Langwarrin

Birds are currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Fish are currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Vegetation are currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Frogs are currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Water regime is currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Wetland habitat form is currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Wetland buffer condition is currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

Vegetation condition is currently 0, trending to 0; with a feasible chance of 0

0

0

0

0

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 37 of 65

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of 50

The Briars



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4


Identify opportunities to further re‐engage the natural wetland area

The Briars wetlands are located at Mt Martha, adjacent to Balcombe Creek. They have a mix of natural and artificial features

Birds are currently very low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of very low

No data

Vegetation are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateFrogs are currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very high

Water regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very lowWetland habitat form is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very lowWetland buffer condition is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very lowVegetation condition is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Improve wetland buffer to 50 percent of wetland perimeter

0

0

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 38 of 65

PRELIM

INARY






of 50

Tootgarook Swamp (Boneo Swamp/ Browns Road)



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Mitigate and minimise water quality threat from nutrient input from surrounding land uses through best practice land management and planning controls

Wetland water quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Investigate opportunities to improve the wetland water regime, especially targeting current and future stormwater inputs

The Tootgarook Swamp (also known as Boneo Swamp) once covered 800 hectares. About half the wetland area still remains. The swamp is a Shallow Freshwater Marsh. Significant wetland vegetation communities and species have been recorded at the site.

Birds are currently very low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of very low

No data

Vegetation are currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of highFrogs are currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

Water regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very lowWetland habitat form is currently low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland buffer condition is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very highVegetation condition is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Reduce threat from invasive fauna to moderate

Improve wetland buffer to 100 per cent of wetland

Identify opportunities to further re‐engage the natural wetland area

Reduce threat from weeds to low

Identify opportunities for habitat creation and migration to mitigate habitat loss due to climate change risks

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 39 of 65

PRELIM

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of 50

Westernport (including coastal wetlands)



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

Reduce rabbit threat to salt marsh community to low

Undertake monitoring to ensure that site stays within the limits of acceptable change as identified in the Ramsar Management Plan and in accordance with new requirements for monitoring, evaluation and reporting at Ramsar sites

Identify opportunities and risks for habitat creation and migration of environmental values in land adjacent to the Ramsar boundary to mitigate habitat loss due to climate change risks (As per Western Port Local Coastal Hazard Assessment)

Ensure that risks to environmental values are considered through a strategic approach to the management and future adaptation of the existing shoreline protection works


Prepare adaption pathway for climate change impacts, including opportunities to maintain water regime through prevention of activities that increase the

Western Port Ramsar Site comprises a large proportion of the Western Port embayment to the north of Phillip Island. The site consists of large shallow intertidal areas, dissected by deeper channels and covers approximately 60,000 hectares. The Western Port Ramsar Site contains one of the largest expanses of saltmarsh in Victoria, covering an area of just over 1,100 hectares within the Ramsar site boundary. A total of 115 waterbird species have been recorded within the Western Port Ramsar Site, and it regularly supports 12 species listed under international migratory bird agreements JAMBA, CAMBA and ROKAMBA. The Western Port Ramsar Site provides significant foraging area for a variety of shorebird species as well as important roosting (nesting) sites.

Birds are currently high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Fish are currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Vegetation are currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Frogs are currently high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Water regime is currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland habitat form is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very highWetland buffer condition is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very highVegetation condition is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Implement stormwater management activities in the Westernport Catchment as identified (Refer Westernport management unit summaries)

Implement rural land management program to reduce nutrient and sediment inflow to the wetlands as identified for each management unit (Refer Westernport management unit summaries)

Reduce invasive flora threat to low focussing on salt tolerant weeds in Saltmarsh communities

Increase wetland buffer to 50 per cent of the wetland perimeter, including areas adjacent to the Ramsar boundary

Reduce invasive fauna threat (cat, fox, rat, dog, pig) to low in priority waterbird roosting and nesting sites

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very LowWater re

gime

Wetland

habita

t form

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


Page: 40 of 65

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of 50

Lang Lang floodplain



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6


Protect, improve and/or create wetland habitat along the Lang Lang River floodplain for birds, frogs and fish including the listed Dwarf Galaxias

The Lang Lang floodplain includes the original channel of the Lang Lang River, before it was channelised and straightened. The channel has been disengaged through flood mitigation works and the remnant channel is only filled by rainfall, rather than river flows.

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateFish are currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very highVegetation are currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of highFrogs are currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

High priority Low Flow Dependent Ecosystems are managed as guided by the Low Flow Dependent Ecosystem Plan to protect birds, frogs and fish including Improve floodplain, riparian and wetland buffers to cover 50 per cent of the perimeterMonitor threat levels from invasive fish species on Dwarf Galaxias and mitigate risks if required

Ensure appropriate aquatic macrophyte habitat is protected in the habitat ponds

Water regime implemented to meet ecological watering objectives including Dwarf Galaxias habitat protection, improve ecosystem services, cultural and social value

Water regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland habitat form is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland buffer condition is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very highVegetation condition is currently moderate, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Yallock Creek floodplain



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4


Protect, improve and/or create wetland habitat along the Yallock Creek floodplain for birds, frogs and fish

The Yallock Creek floodplain includes the original channel of the Yallock Creek, before it was channelised and straightened. The channel has been disengaged through flood mitigation works and the remnant channel is only filled by rainfall, rather than river flows.

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

No data

Vegetation are currently very low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high


Water regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland habitat form is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderateWetland buffer condition is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very highVegetation condition is currently very low, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Improve floodplain, riparian and wetland buffers to cover 50 per cent of the perimeterMonitor threat levels from invasive species on Growling Grass Frogs and mitigate risks if requiredWater regime implemented to meet ecological watering objectives, habitat protection, improve ecosystem services, cultural and social value

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Frogs

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Water re

gime

Wetland

habita

tform

Wetland

buffer

cond

ition

Vegetatio

n cond

ition

Wetland

water

quality

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Estuary SummariesSub‐Section 3.4.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


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Balcombe Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Tidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

0

0

100% of artificial estuary mouth openings undertaken when assessment indicates low environmental risk

The Balcombe Creek estuary is in Mt Martha. The entrance is downstream of the Nepean Highway and is open intermittently to Port Phillip Bay. The concrete spillway at Briars Park Wildlife Sanctuary limits upstream connectivity and extent but unsure if tidal influence extends to the barrier. The estuary maintains a more natural connection between the floodplain and the waterway. The riparian area has dense covers of Swamp paperbark and Woolly Tea‐tree.

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Reduce weed threat to moderate

Continue to monitor estuary water quality through the EstuaryWatch program

Longitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Estuarine vegetation is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Vegetation are currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Fish is currently high, trending to high; with a feasible chance of high

Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Bass River Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Implement rural land program in catchment to minimise sediment and nutrient loads to the estuaryReduce threat from cats, foxes and dogs to significant bird habitat areas

Reduce weed threat from salt tolerant weeds to low

Identify opportunities to re‐engage the estuarine floodplain and wetlands

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risks

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

The Bass River estuary has a permanent, natural mouth opening to Western Port and extends up to the Bass Township. The estuary has a sinuous platform comprised of silts and clays, underlain by lagoon and swamp deposits. The estuary is surrounded by flat, open land and is well‐mixed. The estuary provides important habitats for native fish and bird populations and as a fish nursery for shark and whiting.

Birds are currently high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high


Vegetation are currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateTidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Estuarine vegetation is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Bunyip River Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5


Implement rural land program in catchment to minimise sediment and nutrient loads to the estuaryReduce threat from cats, foxes and dogs to significant bird habitat areas


Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risks

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently very low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high

The Bunyip River estuary is continuously open to Western Port and discharges near Koo Wee Rup. The area of the estuary can be up to 194 m2 and the upper extent is limited by the Water Tower weir. Prior to European settlement, the Bunyip Estuary area was part of the Koo‐Wee‐Rup Swamp, but is now a heavily modified channelised estuary ‐ trapezoidal drain with levees upstream of highway, more natural downstream.The estuary is generally well‐mixed but can be stratified close to high tide. The riparian vegetation is commonly coastal saltmarsh, estuarine wetland and swamp scrub.


Fish is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very high


Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateTidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently no data, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Cardinia Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risksIdentify opportunities to re‐engage the estuarine floodplain and wetlands

Reduce threat from cats, foxes and dogs to significant bird habitat areas

Implement rural land program in catchment to minimise sediment and nutrient loads to the estuaryImprove estuarine vegetation condition to moderate



The Cardinia Creek estuary flows into Western Port near Dalmore. Its straightened channel form is indicative of a constructed drain, created within what historically would have been part of the Koo‐Wee‐Rup Swamp. There are patches of coastal saltmarsh, swamp scrub and mangroves near the entrance of the estuary, and some tidal channels remain intact allowing tidal inundation of wetlands and saltmarsh.



Vegetation are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Estuarine vegetation is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Chinamans Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risksImprove estuarine vegetation condition to moderate

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently no data, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Chinamans Creek estuary flows through the township of Rosebud and discharges into Port Phillip Bay near Tootgarook. When the estuary is open the entrance is approximately 5 m wide but can extend up to approximately 15 m wide further upstream. The creek was constructed to drain Tootgarook Swamp and does not follow a natural drainage line. The riparian vegetation is primarily swamp marsh with some coastal alkaline scrub and patchy coast banksia woodland near the coast.

Birds are currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Fish is currently moderate, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate



Tidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Estuarine vegetation is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Deep Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6

7 Reduce weed threat from salt tolerant weeds to low




Implement rural land program in catchment to minimise sediment and nutrient loads to the estuary

Improve estuarine vegetation condition to moderate

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently very low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Deep Creek estuary discharges into Western Port near Dalmore. Its straightened channel form is indicative of a constructed drain, created within what historically would have been part of the Koo‐Wee‐Rup Swamp. There are patches of coastal saltmarsh, swamp scrub and mangroves near the entrance of the estuary, and some tidal channels remain intact allowing tidal inundation of wetlands and saltmarsh.





Estuarine vegetation is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very LowFlow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Kings Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5


0

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Kings Creek estuary discharges to Western Port near Hastings. The estuary has natural lateral connectivity to floodplain through Westernport Coastal Reserve but is limited in upper reaches on northern banks by steeper slopes.

Birds are currently very high, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of high


Vegetation are currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of moderate



Estuarine vegetation is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very high

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Lang Lang River Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6








The Lang Lang River estuary is permanently open to Western Port, and has an entrance width of approximately 20 m. Heads Road is the upper extent of estuary. The Lang Lang River including the estuary reach has been straightened and channelised with very little vegetation remaining. It originally flowed into Koo Wee Rup swamp with Lang Lang River constructed to drain the swamp (along with Bunyip River).




Flow regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Tidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Merricks Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

100% of artificial estuary mouth openings undertaken when assessment indicates low environmental riskMonitor estuary water quality through the EstuaryWatch program

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Merricks Creek estuary enters Western Port near Somers, and has an entrance width that ranges from 0 to 20 m. Areas on seaward side maintain a more natural connection between the floodplain and the waterway, however flows in Merricks Creek have been reduced through the many farm dams. The estuarine reach is subject to sediment deposition, both along its length and at the creek mouth where the mouth often becomes blocked during periods of low flow, fish kills are not uncommon.

Birds are currently high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high


Vegetation are currently high, trending to low; with a feasible chance of high

Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateTidal exchange is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

Estuarine vegetation is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Olivers Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5


0

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently no data, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

The Olivers Creek estuary discharges to Western Port near Hastings. The estuary has natural lateral connectivity to floodplain through Westernport Coastal Reserve.







Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Stony Creek (WPB) Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risksReduce weed threat to moderate

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of high

The Stony Creek estuary enters Western Port near Shoreham. The entrance is intermittently open and can be up to 5 m wide. There is some dispute as to whether it meets the definition of an estuary, given it is is less than 180m in length.





Tidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently no data, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Tooradin Road Drain Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5


Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risksIdentify opportunities to re‐engage the estuarine floodplain and wetlands

0

0


Tooradin Road Drain flows into Western Port near Tooradin. The drain has been straightened and channelised and would have historically been part of the Koo‐Wee‐Rup Swamp. Reduced lateral connectivity due to floodgate designed to protect areas from tidal inundation. Some connectivity on lower eastern banks to small patches of saltmarsh; western banks and upstream areas little to no connectivity due to levee banks and elevated landfill.




Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateTidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Warringine Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risks0

0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Warringine Creek estuary enters Western Port near Hastings. Seaward half of estuary has natural connectivity to floodplain and extensive areas of saltmarsh and mangroves. The remnant vegetation is in good condition and includes a range of macrophyte species. This is part of the Ramsar site. There are no barriers to estuarine extent or fish passage.







Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Watson Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

Enable lateral and longitudinal migration of estuarine vegetation communities on the floodplain to allow adaptation to climate change risksImplement rural land program in catchment to minimise sediment and nutrient loads to the estuary0

0

0

Estuarine wetland connectivity is currently very high, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate

The Watson Creek estuary enters Western Port at Watsons Inlet near Somerville and flows into Yaringa Marine National Park. The channel of upper estuary well defined; limited connectivity to floodplain under high fluvial flows. Watson Inlet has relatively undisturbed mangrove (Avicennia marina) and saltmarsh habitats of State geomorphological significance. Proximity to Ramsar site. Areas of vegetation with high environmental significance occur in the estuary and adjacent floodplain to the shore of Western Port.




Flow regime is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of low

Tidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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Yallock Creek Estuary



‐

‐

‐

‐

‐

‐


1

2

3

4

5

6








The Yallock Creek estuary is permanently open to Western Port and discharges near Monomeith. Lower areas partially channelized with lateral connectivity restricted to a narrow saltmarsh zone.




Flow regime is currently moderate, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderateTidal exchange is currently very high, trending to very high; with a feasible chance of very highLongitudinal extent is currently low, trending to moderate; with a feasible chance of very highWater quality is currently very low, trending to very low; with a feasible chance of moderate


Birds

Fish

Vegetatio

n

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

Flow

regime

Tidal exchange

Longitu

dinal exten

t

Water quality

stuarin

e vegetatio

n

Estuarine wetland

conn

ectiv

ity

Very High

High

Moderate

Low

Very Low

2017 (actual)

Current trajectory


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MetricsSection 4.Westernport Catchment Preliminary Targets


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Key Value metrics

Key Value Description very low low moderate high very high

Very low likelihood that waterways will support platypus

Low likelihood that waterways will support platypus

Moderate likelihood that waterways will support platypus

High likelihood that waterways will support platypus

Very high likelihood that waterways will support platypus

0.0 to 0.04 0.04 to 0.09 0.09 to 0.25 0.25 to 0.4 0.4 to 1.0

Land Use Macroinvertebrate Response (LUMaR) index. LUMaR is an observed:expected index, that weights the observations of macroinvertebrate families by their sensitivity to forest loss and urbanisation

Very low likelihood of sensitive aquatic macroinvertebrate families being found

Low number of macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating poor stream health

Some macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present indicating moderate stream health

Most macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating good stream health

All or almost all macroinvertebrate families are predicted to be present, indicating very good stream health

Likelihood of sensitive aquatic macroinvertebrate families being found

0.0 to 0.05 0.05 to 0.35 0.35 to 0.5 0.5 to 0.65 0.65 to 1.0

Fish Native Fish RichnessVery few or no native freshwater species recorded in the catchment likely to be present

Few freshwater native species recorded in the catchment likely to be present

About half the native freshwater species recorded in the catchment likely to be present

Most native freshwater species recorded in the catchment likely to be present

All or almost all native freshwater species recorded in the catchment likely to be present

Vegetation Vegetation quality, extent and uniquenessVery low naturalness and very low uniqueness

Low naturalness and very low to medium uniqueness

Medium to high naturalness and very low to low uniqueness, ormedium naturalness and medium to high uniqueness, orvery low naturalness and medium uniqueness

Very high naturalness with very low – medium uniqueness orHigh naturalness and medium to high uniqueness

High or Very high naturalness and High or Very high uniqueness

Very few of the expected species are recorded and these in only low numbers

Few of the expected riparian bird species are recorded

Most expected species occur but some of these are only infrequently recorded over a year

Many expected species are recorded often

Almost all expected species are frequently recorded

0.0 to 0.1 0.1 to 0.3 0.3 to 0.7 0.7 to 0.9 0.9 to 1.0

Very few of the expected species of frog are found

Few of the expected species of frog are found

Not many of the expected species of frog are found

Many of the expected species of frog are found

All, or most, of the expected species of frog are found

0.0 to 0.1 0.1 to 0.3 0.3 to 0.7 0.7 to 0.9 0.9 to 1.0

Based on data from Melbourne Water community perceptions of waterways research on ‘satisfaction with waterways’ in relation to amenity related activities

Very low level of satisfaction with amenity

Low level of satisfaction with amenity

Moderate level of satisfaction with amenity

High level of satisfaction with amenity

Very high level of satisfaction with amenity

Average satisfaction scores (0 to 10) from survey respondents 0 ‐ 4 4 ‐ 6 6 ‐ 7 7 ‐ 8 8 ‐ 10

Based on data from Melbourne Water community perceptions of waterways research on ‘satisfaction with waterways’ in relation to community connection activities

Very low proportion of waterways available for community connection

Low proportion of waterways available for community connection

Moderate proportion of waterways available for community connection

High proportion of waterways available for community connection

Very high proportion of waterways available for community connection


Based on data from Melbourne Water community perceptions of waterways research on ‘satisfaction with waterways’ in relation to community connection activities

Very low level of participation in recreation

Low level of participation in recreation

Moderate level of participation in recreation

High level of participation in recreation

Very high level of participation in recreation


Platypus Likelihood that waterways will support platypus

Macroinvertebrates

BirdsThe summed reporting rate of riparian species expected in that catchment (from minimum of 40 appropriate surveys)

FrogsSpecies richness (observed to expected) modified to reflect survey effort

Amenity

Connection

Recreation

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Waterway Condition metricsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Waterway Condition Metrics

Key Value Metric Description very low low moderate high very high

Stream health is severely impacted from stormwater

Stream health is significantly impacted from stormwater

Stream health is impacted from stormwater

Minor impacts to stream health from stormwater

Minimal or no threat from stormwater

> 10% 5% ‐ 10% 2% ‐ 5% 0.5% ‐ 2% < 0.5%

Flow recommendations are rarely achieved and overall hydrological condition is considered very poor

Flow recommendations are occasionally achieved, mostly in wet and average climate years but not in dry climate years and overall hydrological condition is considered poor

Flow recommendations are often achieved in wet and average climate years and occasionally achieved in dry climate years. Overall hydrological condition is considered moderate

Flow recommendations are often achieved across all climate years and overall hydrological condition is considered good

Flow recommendations are frequently achieved across all climate years and overall hydrological condition is considered excellent

Compliance 1‐20% Compliance 21‐30% Compliance 41‐60% Compliance 61‐80% Compliance 81‐100%

DCI >20% DCI 10‐15% DCI 5‐10% DCI 1‐5% DCI 0‐1%

Where no flow study ‐ use flow state‐wide Flow Stress Ranking (FSR). The FSR inidcates the level of threat to river health based on the level of water extractions by rural, urban and industry users

FSR 0‐2 FSR 2‐4 FSR 4‐6 FSR 6‐8 FSR 8‐10

Vegetation qualityDescription of quality of vegetation relative to Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs)

Riparian vegetation is highly modified, predominantly comprising exotic species

Riparian vegetation is highly modified, fragmented

Riparian zone consists of fragmented relevant EVC vegetation

Riparian vegetation is relatively intact with structural elements present with high connectivity

Riparian vegetation is intact with all structural components present and very high connectivity

Vegetation extentPercentage or reach which has continuous vegetation canopy cover within 20m either side of the stream

0‐20% 20‐40% 40‐60% 60‐80% 80‐100%

Instream connectivityProportion of waterway length within the management unit which is free from barriers to fish movement

0‐20% 20‐40% 40‐60% 60‐80% 80‐100%

Under severe stress Under considerable stressSome evidence of water quality stress.

Meets SEPP water quality standards

Near natural – high quality waterways. Meets SEPP water quality standards

Predicted WQI 0‐2 based on majority land use and available data





Water quality ‐ recreationalBased on compliance with SEPP Waters of Victoria recreational water quality objectives (swimming is considered as primary contact)

NADoes not meet secondary contact objectives (poor)

NAMeets secondary contact objectives (fair)

Meets primary contact objectives (good)

Vegetation canopy coverProportion of stream buffer of 20m with tree canopy cover (target for urban streams is greater than 50%)

0‐20% 20‐40% 40‐60% 60‐80% 80‐100%

Litter absence

The Clean Communities Assessment Tool (CCAT) methodology provides a systematic assessment of littering behaviour, litter and key features of public places, including waterfronts

Most waterways are highly littered, and no expectation for people to do the right thing with used items

Some of the waterways are impacted by litter, and low expectation for people to do the right thing with used items

Moderate proportion of waterways are impacted by litter, but normally people do the right thing with used items

High proportion of waterways have an absence of litter and majority of people do the right thing with used items

Very high proportion of waterways have an absence of litter and very unusual for people to do the wrong thing with used items

AccessProportion of stream corridors that have accessible waterways (paths) on at least one side

0‐20% 20‐40% 40‐60% 60‐80% 80‐100%

Participation

Percentage of population involved in grants and citizen science (related to waterways) over previous 5 years as a proportion of population within management unit

< 0.1% 0.1‐0.5% 0.5‐1% 1‐2% > 2%

Water quality ‐ environmental

Compliance with SEPP Waters of Victoria environmental water quality objectives. EPA Water Quality Index http://yarraandbay.vic.gov.au/report‐card/scoring‐method


Stormwater condition

Directly connected imperviousness (DCI) is the proportion of the impervious surface that is directly connected to a stream through a conventional drainage connection

Water for environment

Compliance with environmental flow components identified through FLOWS method. The FLOWS method is a state based approach for assessing flow requirements of freshwater river systems

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Wetland Value metricsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Wetland Condition Metrics ‐ based on AVIRA


Incorporates formally recognised significance as bird habitat, presence of significant species and condition of vegetation

Ramsar Site = Yes/Listed

East Asian‐Australasian Flyway Site = Yes/ListedNationally Important Wetlands (DIWA) = Yes/Listed

Supports Significant fauna birds =5

Important Bird Area =5

Wetland vegetation condition – adjusts score up or down

FishFish community metric TBCSignificant fish = 5

TBC TBC TBC TBC Listed species present

Vegetation

Incorporates condition and rarity dataSignificant flora = 5Significant EVC = 5Vegetation condition

If condition = 1 (Very poor or poor)If condition = 3 (moderate) and meets one significance metric

If Condition = 3 and one other metric meets criteria or condition is

5

If condition = 5 and one other metric meets criteria

If all 3 metrics meet criteria (Score 5)

FrogsKey value status of the management unit applied and adjusted for significant amphibians score

As per management unit score As per management unit score As per management unit score As per management unit scoreSupports significant amphibian

species

If 5 metrics meet criteria


BirdsIf vegetation condition is very poor

or poor.If one metric meets criteria If 2 or 3 metrics meet criteria If 4 metrics meet criteria

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Wetland Condition metricsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Wetland Condition Metrics ‐ based on AVIRA


Water regimeSimplified AVIRA threat metric – Changed water regime

Significant change N/A Moderate change N/A Minor or no change

AVIRA threat metrics – Reduced wetland area and altered wetland form

>75% reduction in wetland area>50 to 75% reduction in wetland

area>25 to 50% reduction in wetland

area>5 to 25% reduction in wetland area to 5% reduction in wetland area

Highest threat level from two metrics applied>50–75% of wetland form altered by excavation or land forming

>25‐50% of wetland form altered by excavation or land forming

>5‐25% of wetland form altered by excavation or land forming

>75% of wetland form altered by excavation or land forming

activities activities activities0‐5% of wetland form altered by

excavation or land forming activities

Wetland buffer conditionAVIRA threat metric – Degraded buffer vegetation

IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: 0 ‐ 5

IWC Wetland Buffer Assessment Score: >5 ‐ 9




Vegetation conditionAVIRA value metric – Wetland vegetation condition

EVCs present completely displaced and site highly modified/ or no EVCs mapped

N/A

EVCs present show some displacement, site moderately modified (veg condition mod ‐ good)

N/AEVCs present intact, site near reference condition (veg condition excellent)

Changed salinity of wetland N/A Medium land use intensity class N/A No change

High to Very high land use intensity class

Low to Very low land use intensity class

Inland waterway is at high risk from acid sulfate soils

Inland waterway is not at high risk from acid sulfate soils

** The IWC includes a Water Properties Sub‐Index that considers threat measures for nutrients and electrical conductivity

Adjacent land does not contain Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils

or


Wetlands habitat form

Wetland water quality

Wetland threat metrics** – Changed water properties salinity, Changed water properties nutrients and disturbance of acid sulfate soils

Highest threat level from two metrics applied

Adjacent land has the potential to contain Coastal Acid Sulfate Soils

or

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Estuary Value metricsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Estuary Value Metrics


Birds

Incorporates formally recognised significance as bird habitat, presence of significant species and condition of vegetationRamsar Site = Yes/ListedEast Asian‐Australasian Flyway Site = Yes/ListedNationally Important Wetlands (DIWA) = Yes/ListedSupports Significant fauna birds =5Important Bird Area =5Wetland vegetation condition – adjusts score up or down

If vegetation condition is very poor or poor.

If one metric meets criteria If 2 or 3 metrics meet criteria If 4 metrics meet criteria If 5 metrics meet criteria

FishIncorporates significant fish, drought refuge and the Estuary Entrance Management Support System for Fish Asset Score.

No records of fish Not used.Records of only non‐estuarine dependent fish (marine or

freshwater) species

Records include estuarine dependent (Seasonal facultative and Seasonal obligate) species

Records include listed fish species

Vegetation

Incorporates condition and rarity dataSignificant flora = 5Significant EVC = 5Vegetation condition

If condition = 1 (Very poor or poor)If condition = 3 (moderate) and meets one significance metric

If Condition = 3 and one other metric meets criteria or condition is

5

If condition = 5 and one other metric meets criteria

If all 3 metrics meet criteria (Score 5)


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Estuary Condition metricsWesternport Catchment Preliminary Targets

Estuary Condition Metrics


AVIRA threat metric: Altered flow regimeReduction in High Flow Magnitude

High Flow Index Score 0.0 ‐ 2.49 High Flow Index Score 2.5 ‐ 4.49 High Flow Index Score 4.5 ‐ 6.49 High Flow Index Score 6.5 ‐ 8.49 High Flow Index Score 8.5 – 10.0

Increase in Low Flow MagnitudeIncrease in Proportion of Zero Flow

Low Flow Index Score 0.0 ‐ 2.0 Low Flow Index Score 2.1 ‐ 4.0 Low Flow Index Score 4.1 ‐ 6.0 Low Flow Index Score 6.1 ‐ 8.0 Low Flow Index Score 8.1 – 10.0

Change in Monthly Streamflow VariabilityAltered Streamflow Seasonality

Zero Flow Index Score 0.0 ‐ 2.0 Zero Flow Index Score 2.1 ‐ 4.0 Zero Flow Index Score 4.1 ‐ 6.0 Zero Flow Index Score 6.1 ‐ 8.0 Zero Flow Index Score 8.1 – 10.0

Variability Index Score 0.0 ‐ 2.0 Variability Index Score 2.1 ‐ 4.0 Variability Index Score 4.1 ‐ 6.0 Variability Index Score 6.1 ‐ 8.0 Variability Index Score 8.1 ‐ 10.0

Seasonality Index Score 0.0 ‐ 2.49 Seasonality Index Score 2.5 ‐ 4.49 Seasonality Index Score 4.5‐ 6.49 Seasonality Index Score 6.5 ‐ 8.49 Seasonality Index Score 8.5 ‐ 10.0

Tidal exchange AVIRA threat metrics>50% of all estuary mouth

openings* are artificial with non‐environmental objectives

25% ‐50% of all estuary mouth openings* are artificial with non‐

environmental objectivesN/A

<25% of all estuary mouth openings* are artificial with non‐

environmental objectives

Threat score 0 ‐ No artificial estuary mouth openings* occur with non‐

environmental objectives

Altered Marine Exchange (Intermittently Open Estuaries)

Dredging of the estuary mouth occursor

Training walls have been constructed at the estuary mouth

Threat score 0 Dredging of the estuary mouth does not occur

Altered Marine Exchange (Permanently Open Estuaries)

andNo training walls have been

constructed at the estuary mouth

Longitudinal extent AVIRA threat metric: Reduced estuary extent

>50% of the estuary is affected by an artificial barrier that completely blocks the movement of water (in a

typical year)

1 to 50% of the estuary is affected by an artificial barrier that

completely blocks the movement of water (in a typical year)

>25 to 50% of the estuary is affected by an artificial barrier that

interferes (intermittently or selectively) with the movement of

water (in a typical year)

1 to 25% of the estuary is affected by an artificial barrier that interferes (intermittently or

selectively) with the movement of water (in a typical year)

No artificial barrier occurs within the estuary

OR

>50% of the estuary is affected by an artificial barrier that interferes (intermittently or selectively) with the movement of water (in a typical

year)


Flow regime

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