Let there be light: Willow removal in Manilla uncovers river for first time in 15 years

The view where the Manilla and Namoi Rivers meet in Manilla, has been unveiled for the first time in 15 years, thanks to community efforts to remove a massive willow tree blocking the junction.

The 30-metre-wide willow tree had dominated the confluence, making it invisible from the Manilla Common. Now, with the willow cleared, locals have a renewed connection to their river, with local fish populations now benefiting from the removal of the nationally recognised weed.

The three-day on-ground works, led by OzFish Northern Basin Project Officer Harry Davey, generated a buzz, with locals pleased to see their local river junction open again.

“People are stopping by just to take in the view and chat about how good it looks,” said Harry. “It’s been great to see the pride people have in their local waterways.”

He hopes this enthusiasm will inspire more willow removal efforts in the area.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “The excitement from the community shows that people are invested in restoring their rivers and creating better conditions for fish and recreation.”

To maintain the health of the riverbanks and ensure lasting improvements, the site will be replanted with Australian native Lomandra longifolia grasses to stabilise the soil and support local wildlife.

The issue of invasive willows goes beyond aesthetics. Willows are notorious for consuming vast amounts of water and causing water quality issues. Research from CSIRO indicates that willows can use up to 5.5 megalitres of water per hectare annually, equivalent to over two Sydney Harbours’ worth of water being lost each year from Australia’s waterways.

Their root systems also trap sediment and alter flows, while their autumn leaf drop overloads waterways with organic matter; depleting oxygen levels and potentially leading to dangerous blackwater events.
Harry, a dedicated Murray cod fisher, understands why willows can be seen as good fish habitat.

“There’s no denying they provide shade and cover.”

“However, the damage they do to the river system outweighs any benefits. As much as I love chasing cod in those snaggy spots, I know that healthy native vegetation is the way forward.”

OzFish’s strategy for removing willows involves cutting them to the stump and applying water-safe chemical treatments to prevent regrowth. This method maintains bank stability while allowing native vegetation to gradually replace the willows. While it means a temporary reduction in habitat for fish, the long-term benefits include improved water quality, increased insect populations, and more stable riverbanks.

To learn more about OzFish’s ongoing efforts to restore fish habitats and how you can get involved, join as a member.

The project is part of OzFish’s Driving Fish Habitat Action partnership with Landcare NSW, with funding support from Recreational Fishing Trusts and BCF – Boating, Camping, Fishing.