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Enhancing estuaries
Estuaries are often referred to as the ‘nurseries of the sea’ because they are the breeding grounds for many fish, crustaceans, and other marine life. They contain diverse ecosystems that support vegetation, wildlife, and the coastal food chain.
The estuaries of the Hunter-Central Rivers region are under threat from pressures such as urban development, loss of foreshore vegetation, boating, flood mitigation and climate change.
Through the CAP, the CMA aims to improve the health of our estuaries by protecting and enhancing wetlands, better managing stormwater and nutrient run-off, improving foreshore and riparian vegetation and increasing tidal flushing.
Taking action together
Protecting our coastal hot spots
Population growth and development, disturbance of acid sulfate soils, water quality decline and ecosystem disturbance are all leading to the loss of habitat and biodiversity in our coastal aquatic ecosystems.
High rains but no high tides in Hexham Swamp
Since the first floodgate on Ironbark Creek was opened in December 2008, a team of consultants has been closely monitoring the impacts of increased tidal inundation in Hexham Swamp.
Aboriginal Land Management Teams breaking new ground
Over two weeks in July 2009 members of the Awabakal and Worimi communities planted an impressive three thousand trees around the south west edge of Hexham Swamp on the edge of a new residential development in the suburb of Fletcher.
$3.5 million was invested in improving the health of the Hunter River estuary last year
- 2010-11 CMA Annual Report