Bottle Bend Reserve to get new fence for fish

OzFish Unlimited, Australia’s fishing conservation charity is set to support NSW Western Landcare Group-Bottle Bend Reserve managers in fish habitat action. The local groups will install a two-kilometre fence around the border of a vital riparian corridor along the Murray River to protect the riparian landscape including cultural values and provide designated river access points.

The fence will additionally protect the establishment of native trees and shrubs that are scheduled to be planted in 2021 by the two groups.

OzFish Project Manager for the Murray-Darling Basin, Braeden Lampard has been supporting Bottle Bend Reserve group and Sunraysia OzFish in this work and believes that it is important that these sensitive, vital areas are managed appropriately to make sure they provide the most benefit for our native fish and terrestrial species.

“Healthy riparian vegetation is important for a healthy ecosystem. It provides shade for cooler water, overhangs and snags for shelter and insect fall for food. It filters run off which improves water quality, stabilises stream banks and provides a corridor for the movement for animals on land”, stated Mr Lampard

Peter Kelly is one of the Bottle Bend Reserve managers and has been working closely with Braeden Lampard,

“This project will bring many benefits not only to the environment but also to recreational fishing groups, traditional owners, bushwalkers, birdwatchers and to the broader community,” stated Mr Kelly.

The need for more habitat within the Murray Darling Basin is critical and this project is just another way OzFish and community partners are working towards a healthy, vibrant and more productive fishery.

If you would like to know more about the project or get involved become a member of OzFish or contact 1800 431 308.