Action plan to improve Leschenault water quality

• Leschenault Estuary plan released following extensive stakeholder consultation
• Outlines actions to improve water quality

A plan to improve the water quality of the Leschenault Estuary near Bunbury is the focus of a new plan released today by Water Minister Bill Marmion.

Speaking at the Healthy Estuaries 2111 Forum in Mandurah today, Mr Marmion said the Leschenault Estuary Water Quality Improvement Plan outlined actions to improve water quality in the estuary and its tributaries to prevent further waterway decline.

"The estuary is of local and international significance because of its migratory waterbirds, aquatic biodiversity and ecologically important vegetation, including white mangroves," he said.

"It's also a major recreational hub for the rapidly growing Bunbury region and supports activities such as fishing and boating.

"The estuary has been affected by changing land uses, increased urbanisation, more intensive agriculture and a drying climate, so it is important to have a proper plan in place to guide the estuary's future management."

The plan sets out a number of management actions to improve water quality, including reduced urban nutrient use; horticultural best-management practices; improved irrigation and fertiliser practices; and improved effluent management of dairy sheds.

The plan is supported by leading scientific studies, including water quality monitoring data and catchment modelling, and was developed after extensive consultation with community stakeholders, industry bodies, local governments and key State Government agencies.

"These stakeholders have made a valuable contribution to the plan's development and, through their combined efforts and partnership, their continued efforts will help enhance and maintain long-term water quality in the Leschenault Estuary," the Minister said.

Fact File

• Dept of Water received valuable input from Leschenault Catchment Council; South West Catchments Council; departments of Agriculture and Food, Planning, Environment and Conservation; Harvey Water; Water Corporation; Murdoch University; City of Bunbury; shires of Capel, Harvey, Dardanup, Donnybrook-Balingup; and community stakeholders
• Plan available at: http://www.water.wa.gov.au/

Minister's office  - 6552 6800