A drought relief crew has undertaken conservation works at the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park and Sale Common Nature Conservation Reserve as Parks Victoria fast-tracks the program with support from the State Government.
Parks Victoria said the program, a partnership with Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee, funded a drought-relief crew to undertake extensive weed control in the Sale Common, targeting Blackberry, Box Thorn, Mirror Bush and Pittosporum to protect the wetland that feeds the broader Gippsland Lakes system.
“The crew also helped repair fences that will reduce soil disturbance and protect native vegetation, improving the water quality of these important wetlands,” Parks Victoria said.
“The drought relief crew has supported Park Rangers in other weed control programs, including the removal of Pine Wildlings in the Stradbroke Flora and Fauna Reserve and Holey Plains State Park,” it said.
“At the Avon Perry River Delta, crews also removed Boneseed, which can eliminate native understory species and reduce the regeneration abilities of native trees and shrubs.”
Parks Victoria said the safety of staff and visitors was its highest priority.
“The recovery works undertaken have been adjusted to adhere to COVID-19 restrictions, ensuring physical distancing and hygiene standards are maintained at all times,” it said.
Area Chief Ranger for Parks Victoria, Bridget Grant said the Agency was fortunate to secure additional crews to support its Park Rangers with vital pest and weed control works throughout the central Gippsland region.
