WATER QUALITY IN THE GREAT LAKES

Bob Baldwin, Member for Paterson has secured $1.25 million under a Coalition Government to improve water quality in the Great Lakes region.

“This is an important investment which will allow Great Lakes Council to implement priority actions of the Great Lakes Water Quality Improvement Plan,” said Mr Baldwin.

The $1.25 million will go towards:

·         Stormwater management

·         Rural land management to address best practice groundcover, fertiliser, riparian and wetland management

·         An incentives scheme to implement on-ground activities that address water quality improvements

·         Collection of data and communication through an ecological report card

“This will be delivered in partnership with community groups and volunteers including Karuah Great Lakes Landcare and the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority,” said Mr Baldwin.

Mr Baldwin acknowledged how crucial quality water is to the Great Lakes region.

“Water is vital for our survival but it is also central to many of our local tourism organisations who provide jobs and support investment in the Great Lakes,” said Mr Baldwin.

“By educating land holders, students and other members of the community we guarantee an enduring ownership of our waterways which will help ensure their quality for many generations to come.”

Great Lakes Mayor Jan McWilliams welcomed the announcement.

“Funding for actions from the Great Lakes Water Quality Improvement Plan is of the highest priority to our community – our waterways are high in ecological value and the health of our waterways supports a healthy local economy.”