Estuary study shows progress

Progress on the Brisbane Water Estuary Process Study during March and April was reported to Gosford Council last week.

In March, there was a meeting with Council officers from a range of departments and a presentation of study overview.

Responses were received to the "stakeholder letter", data was loaded into the council's Geographic Information System and a review of available data and reports continued.

Catchment modelling including rainfall data analysis and sub-catchment mapping was started.

Recreational usage studies were started, as were a review of acid sulphate soils sampling locations and field work associated with assessment of estuarine salt marshes and riparian habitat around the estuary.

The council received a permit from National Parksto undertake further sampling within the nature reserves in the estuary.

In April, catchment processes work continued, as did work on foreshore recreation and selection of sites for acid sulphate soils sampling.

Quantitative assessment of salt marsh and mangroves started as well as fish sampling in open water and seagrass habitat.

Council agenda, CL.001, May 11