Citizen scientists celebrated

LOCAL volunteers from EstuaryWatch, WaterWatch and Corangamite CMA have been celebrated for the contribution of their citizen scientists.

The Victorian government is recognising the volunteers for their work in supporting the waterways health across the Corangamite region.

On June 24 the Corangamite CMA presented the Barwon Basin Water Quality Summary.

Citizen scientists collected the data for the report over the past three years at 50 WaterWatch and three EstuaryWatch sites along the Moorabool, Leigh and Barwon Rivers.

The volunteers undertake scientific research and on-ground activities to help ensure Victoria’s biodiversity and natural environment continue to thrive.

Geelong MP Christine Couzens represented Minister for Water Harriet Shing at the event where results from the report were discussed.

The data helps fill gaps in information about waterway health with the citizen scientists able to monitor water quality and collect environmental information.

“Through the citizen science program volunteers gain skills and knowledge and become important advocates for their local river, wetlands and estuaries while also collecting data to help inform decision making,” Ms Couzens said.

Volunteers in the Corangamite catchment gathered water quality measurements and macro-invertebrate in targeted areas.

Minister for Water Harriet Shing said WaterWatch and EstuaryWatch played a pivotal role in the health of waterways.

“As a community we are inextricably linked to our catchment, and we have a shared responsibility to act to ensure that the environment is healthy and supports our prosperity and wellbeing.”

The two organisations focus on monitoring the condition of waterways and improving environmental education and awareness.