28

<< BACK TO CONTENTS Paddlers riding a wave Water for the environment is providing more recreational opportunities along Victoria’s rivers, including for canoeing and kayaking. The river now looks like how older locals Whitehorse Canoe Club is among the groups making good use of local waterways during environmental flows. The club took to the water on the Thomson River during a flow timed for the Anzac Day long weekend. Almost 30 people joined the club’s fun on the water, with an environmental flow providing perfect conditions for paddling. Whitewater rafting tour operator Lynton Hill is also noticing that water for the environment has had a positive effect on the Snowy River. “We see consistency of water, increased clarity, reduction of stagnant pools, reduction of silt and algae on the banks, reduction of streambed vegetation and a deepening and more defined river channel,” Lynton said. “The river now looks like how older locals remember it. It has a more natural flow, with increased spring releases mimicking what happened before the dam. The river now has a sense of being alive.” remember it. It has a more natural flow, with increased spring releases mimicking what happened before the dam. The river now has a sense of being alive. Whitehorse Canoe Club members canoeing the Thomson River, by Mike Flavel 25 | Victorian Environmental Water Holder

29 Publizr Home


You need flash player to view this online publication