Fishing, habitat improvements for reservoir

FISHING conditions at Kennington Reservoir are about to be improved thanks to a grant of more than $100,000.The City of Greater Bendigo plans to take advantage of lower water levels due to maintenance work on the reservoir’s dam wall to carry out the fish habitat improvements.

It has received the $110,000 grant from the Victorian Fisheries Authority Recreational Fishing Grants Program.

The works will include:

– Deepening parts of the reservoir by creating pools and channels;

– Use of timber and roots removed from the dam wall to improve fish, frog and turtle habitat;

– Increasing the size of the existing habitat island for turtle breeding;

– Planting of aquatic vegetation to boost water quality and food and nesting resources;

– Creating fishing casting spots along the banks using rocks, logs and native vegetation;

– Restocking with a wider range of fish species, including native baitfish;

– Installation of interpretive and safety signs; and

– Construction of a canoe ramp to improve water access for non-powered boats.

“This project will reduce silt build-up, improve wildlife habitat, enhance fishing opportunities, reduce algal blooms and improve the look and quality of Kennington Reservoir,” city climate change and envionment manager Michelle Wyatt said.

“It will improve the habitat for both angling fish and threatened native fish species and will make use of vegetation that has been removed along the dam wall to provide hiding and breeding spots for fish in the water.

“In addition to providing improved water quality and better wildlife habitat and fishing opportunities, there should

be fewer algal blooms and an improved overall look at the reservoir.”

Ms Wyatt said the reservoir was home to many waterbirds, fish, turtles and other wildlife, and was a popular spot.

She said water levels would be low and the area muddy and messy while the dam wall maintenance works were under way, and much of the wildlife would either congregate in the remaining low water or move to suitable nearby sites.

“Less mobile species and those more at risk of water loss will be closely monitored and relocated where necessary,” Ms Wyatt said.