OCEAN GROVE’S “hidden gem” would receive a host of upgrades under a draft masterplan.<\/p>\n
A 10-year vision for management of Blue Waters Lake Reserve has received councillor endorsement for draft exhibition over the next two months.<\/p>\n
Blue Waters Lake is a seven-hectare wetland habitat at Ocean Grove’s north-west corner surrounded by about 100 private properties.<\/p>\n
The masterplan aims to protect native vegetation, including grassy woodland and Bellarine yellow gums, promote community awareness of habitat and significant species, improve walking access and boost water quality.<\/p>\n
A temporary wetland zone to treat inflowing stormwater is among key proposed projects, alongside sediment pools, submerged embankments, enhancement of conservation areas and pedestrian links.<\/p>\n
The plan would also implement a staged removal of ageing willow trees for replacement with native species to maximise wildlife habitat.<\/p>\n
Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said the plan would set the council’s long-term investment priorities for the lake reserve.<\/p>\n
“We know the reserve is highly treasured, but we want to enhance its environmental and recreational features to make it an even better space for visitors and wildlife,” Cr Mason said.<\/p>\n
“The draft plan proposes improving the all-weather path and seating to increase access to nature, improving the water quality in the lake and increasing the area revegetated with local indigenous species.”<\/p>\n
The draft masterplan is open for consultation until July 29.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
OCEAN GROVE’S “hidden gem” would receive a host of upgrades under a draft masterplan. A 10-year vision for management of Blue Waters Lake Reserve has received councillor endorsement for draft exhibition over the next two months. Blue Waters Lake is a seven-hectare wetland habitat at Ocean Grove’s north-west corner surrounded by about 100 private properties. […]<\/p>\n