The SA MDB NRM Board have outsourced delivery of our Sustainable Recreation program and the following is a report from our partner provider.
Sustainable Recreation is ‘enjoying recreational activities whilst minimising negative impacts on the environment. This community-based MurrayCare project is funded by the SA Murray Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board, with Committee members from various SA State Government agencies, local government and community groups. The project boundaries encompass the River Murray from the SA/NSW border to the Lower Lakes and the 1956 floodplain.
The Sustainable Recreation Project implements the actions identified in the Sustainable Recreation Strategy, with focus on education, on-ground works, developing partnerships, and providing feedback into relevant policies with the aim of addressing two issues: managing existing recreation and its impacts, and planning for new recreation opportunities.
Since 2004, on- ground works have been carried out at a number of sites along the River Murray, including the installation of composting toilets, fencing and revegetation at Plush’s Bend, Renmark; fencing, environmental education workshops and revegetation at Hogwash Bend, Waikerie; revegetation at Walker Flat, Harts Lagoon & Ramco Lagoon (Waikerie); Mannum wharf extension, Riverland Canoe Trails, an ablution block with disability access at Ngautngaut Conservation Park; and interactive touch screens at Pomberuk Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
Publications include the “Sustainable Recreation Strategy”, the “Site Planning and Implementation Guide”, the “Management Recommendation Report” for Local Councils of the River Murray in SA; the “Education Strategy”, the “Sustainable Recreation Guide: how to have fun with minimal impact on the River Murray” and “Sustainable Recreation Management Plans” for Hogwash Bend and Harts Lagoon.
Partnerships and Projects for 2008:
- Younghusband boat ramp upgrade with Mid Murray Council – funded by the Australian Government’s Recreational Fishing Community Grant.
- Mannum Wetlands Interpretive Boardwalk – partnership with Mid Murray LAP, funded by the Australian Government’s Envirofund.
- Harts Lagoon Environmental Restoration – partnership with Riverland West LAP, funded by the Australian Government’s Envirofund.
- Sustainable Recreation Management Plans for Bolto and Haythorpe Reserves for Mid Murray Council.
- Riverbank erosion study, identifying hot spots and recommending remedial action (dependent on funding).
- Rivercraft Education Kit – partnership with Riverland West LAP, Houseboat Hirers Association, River Murray Boat Owners Association, Murray Watch, and other groups.
The Project Officer is a mentor for the Lower River Murray Youth Council, Murraylink, and the Mallee Schools Environmental Education Program; and a member of the Murraylands Consultative Committee for the SA National Parks and Wildlife (DEH).