An investigation of how Hughes Creek's stream and bank conditions affect the threatened species, Macquarie Perch, will start shortly.
An investigation of how Hughes Creek's stream and bank conditions affect the threatened species, Macquarie Perch, will start shortly.
The investigation is part of a project, funded by the Victorian Government and delivered by the Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (CMA), to improve habitat in the creek for Macquarie Perch.
"We know there are Macquarie Perch in the creek," Goulburn Broken CMA River Health Officer Christine Glassford said.
"However, we are keen to learn more about where these populations are as well as the factors affecting Macquarie Perch habitat and their ability to move along the creek to breed and feed.
"This will be done by investigating the condition of the stream and banks and, later, through fish surveys to correlate river condition with the location and extent of various fish species."
Ms Glassford said this initial research would help determine priority actions for the second and third years of the project.
The Goulburn Broken CMA has sent letters to all Hughes Creek landholders informing them of the project. Regular updates on the project, and ways the broader community can participate in activities, will be made available on the Goulburn Broken CMA and Strathbogie Conservation Network websites, and via local media.
Ms Glassford said the Goulburn Broken CMA was also offering funding support to landholders for works on the Hughes Creek and major tributaries that could include:
control of stock access via construction of streamside fencing and installation of off-stream water points;revegetation and supplement planting; andplacement of in-stream habitat and channel formation works.
"Similar projects in the Yea River and King Parrot Creek catchments have seen great improvements in Macquarie Perch populations and waterway health and we look forward to working with the community to bring about similar improvements within Hughes Creek," Ms Glassford said.
"If you are interested in finding out more about the project and any of these activities, or would like to meet with me at your property to discuss frontage management, please contact me at the Yea office on 5736 0100."
For more information about the Hughes Creek Project and Macquarie Perch, visit the Goulburn Broken CMA website:
Hughes Creek Final Report 2013
Macquarie Perch Factsheet