Project focuses on saltmarsh
The Community Environment Network has launched a new project which focuses on coastal saltmarsh areas including Patonga.
According to project officer Ms Narelle Leite, the aim of the initiative is to identify priority saltmarsh areas within the local government areas of Gosford, Wyong and Lake Macquarie.
Ms Leite said coastal saltmarsh had been drastically reduced in areas across the state and was classified an Endangered Ecological Community by the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change.
"The project aims to identify priority saltmarsh areas within the local government areas of Gosford, Wyong and Lake Macquarie to focus on for its community education program and on-ground works," Ms Leite said.
"Saltmarsh zones on the Central Coast consist of low growing plants such as grasses, sedges, succulents and shrubs, and are vitally important habitat for an extensive range of native fauna.
"They are important places for migratory birds to roost, as nursery areas for fish and crustaceans, and as foraging habitat for insectivorous bats.
"Working in conjunction with local councils and the Hunter Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority, CEN hopes to change community perceptions about saltmarsh and encourage people to become involved in its protection."
Ms Leite said the Patonga Creek saltmarsh site had already undergone rehabilitation work and would look at using it as a successful example of a case study for the project.
The Saltmarsh Project is funded by the Federal Government through its Caring for our Country grants.
For more information about the project, contact wetlands@cen.org.au
Press release, 22 Jun 2009
Narelle Leite, Community Environment Network