Harvey River Restoration Demonstration Project recognised at WA Water Awards

A project to help restore a South West waterway to a more natural state has been recognised for its achievements on a Statewide level.

The Harvey River Restoration Taskforce and the Water Corporation were acknowledged as a finalist in the Research and Development Excellence category at the WA Water Awards held in Perth last month for their work on the Harvey River Restoration Demonstration Project.

Water Corporation South West regional manager Nicky Waite said the project supported marine life by creating habitat pockets to allow freshwater species to move more easily up and down the river drains.

“We’ve traditionally sought to avoid changes to water flow through the drainage system, but we’re now excited to be showing that these innovative ideas supported by research are helping to restore and improve the sustainability of the system,” Ms Waite said.

“(We are) eager to build on this good work and we look forward to seeing more positive outcomes through this trial project.”

The demonstration is now in its third year and has shown a remarkable improvement in habitat along the Harvey drainage system.

It has been noted as the first of its kind in Western Australia.

The demonstration project is coordinated by the HRRT, Water Corporation and Greening Australia, with additional input from organisations including the Department of Water Environmental Regulation, Murdoch University and the Harvey Aboriginal Corporation.

The nomination for the prize recognised the collaborative approach taken by all partners.

Revegetation works have also been undertaken as part of the project.

The demonstration is funded by the State Natural Resource Management Program WA, Peel-Harvey Catchment Council, Alcoa Foundation and Water Corporation.