<< BACK TO CONTENTS Melbourne’s rivers, estuaries and wetlands are the foundation of a vibrant natural environment and a key contributor to the city’s productivity and liveability. The community loves its waterways, and our deep connections to the rivers and their surrounding landscapes form part of the region’s liveability. Environmental water is important for keeping these rivers and landscapes healthy. “As Melbourne and the surrounding region have grown over the past two centuries, the city has relied heavily on our rivers to supply water for growing food, drinking and industry use,” Melbourne Water’s General Manager Integrated Planning Chris Williams said. Melbourne Water, as the waterway manager, works with the VEWH to carefully plan and target the release of water for the environment to help native plants and animals cope with the pressures of urbanisation. Species that call Melbourne’s Yarra, Maribyrnong, Tarago and Werribee rivers home include platypus, dozens of frog species and important and endangered native fish populations. The strategically timed release of water for the environment helps increase platypus and frog populations and encourages native fish to migrate and spawn. “Water for the environment gives nature a boost. We use it to create the conditions native fish, frogs and platypus need to reproduce, and it helps to flush out sediment and improve water quality,” Chris said. “Given the pressures of climate variability and population growth likely to be experienced in Melbourne, it’s never been more important to find ways to help nature deal with these stresses.” “Working with the VEWH and other stakeholders, we want to ensure these important native species of aquatic animals and vegetation thrive. Our focus is on finding a balance that supports community and commercial needs, for the benefit and liveability of Melbourne now and for future generations.” 39 | Victorian Environmental Water Holder
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