Study gives Blackwood River tick of health

A study published today by the State Government's river scientists has given five tributaries of the south-west's lower Blackwood River a positive health card.

  • Tributaries of south-west river found to have rich native biodiversity

  • Department of Water study informs water use and planning decisions

  • Study provides up-to-date information on water quality and ecosystems

A study published today by the State Government's river scientists has given five tributaries of the south-west's lower Blackwood River a positive health card.

Water Minister Mia Davies said the lower Blackwood River was a popular inland waterway and the "~River Health Assessment in the lower catchment of the Blackwood River' study had recognised it as a highly valuable aquatic ecosystem. 

"This study showcases the high-level river science being carried by the Department of Water and its strong collaborative relationship with the South West Catchments Council (SWCC) in the management of the region's aquatic resources," Ms Davies said.

"The Chapman and Upper Chapman brooks, and the McLeod, Rushy and Fisher creeks support a richness of native fish and crayfish species, including many only found in the south-west. These waterways also provide an important refuge for native species during hot, dry weather."

The study found good news for one threatened species, the mud minnow (Galaxiella munda) and one priority species, the pouched lamprey (Geotria australias).

"Evidence of recent spawning of the mud minnow is good news given it is a threatened species and information in this report will help us protect this important spawning habitat," the Minister said.

The report and associated data will be used by agencies such as the departments of Water, Parks and Wildlife, and Fisheries; and the SWCC - to support the management of water resources and other natural resources.

 

       Fact File

  • The report is based on river health assessments conducted in 2012-13

  • It looked at the condition of five tributaries - McLeod, Rushy and Fisher creeks, and Chapman and Upper Chapman brooks

  • The study was jointly funded by the Department of Water, SWCC and the Australian Government

Minister's office - 6552 5500