In Melbourne, our rivers and creeks are essential to our way of life. That’s why at Melbourne Water we conduct ongoing inspections of our creeks and waterways.
As part of these inspections we can determine whether maintenance works are required, including the removal of weeds and planting native plants. Once established, the vegetation will protect the banks of the creek and provide habitat so our native wildlife can thrive.
What type of weeds are often removed?
This will vary from site to site, however often the types of weeds may include blackberries, arum lily, honeysuckle, prickly pear and larger wood weeds such as pittosporum, willows, ivy, desert ash and inkweed.
Why do we do these works?
Our creeks and rivers are home to native wildlife. Our weed control and revegetation work helps improve the area’s biodiversity and provides habitat for these iconic native animals. By removing these weeds, we will help to improve the health of the creek and nearby Port Phillip Bay, both for community and the environment so our native wildlife can thrive.
How are weed control works delivered?
Weed control works are often delivered periodically over a few months to several years. Work hours are usually between 7 am and 4 pm, Monday to Friday.
Following the initial weed control efforts, Melbourne Water will continue to tend to the creek ensuring that weeds are controlled while the vegetation becomes established over the following few years.
The new plants and shrubs selected to revegetate the area after the weed removal are carefully considered to thrive in the local conditions. This ensures the new vegetation builds upon and connects with the established plants in the area and provides a wildlife corridor facilitating movement of native animals.
How long do these works take?
This length of time to complete these types of works depends on the number and size of weeds and the total number of plants being planted, as well as the weather conditions.
Weed control and revegetation works can take between a few days up to a few weeks, and sometimes even months to complete.
Acknowledgement
Melbourne Water acknowledges the Bunurong people as the Traditional Owners of this land.
Keeping you informed
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