Barwon Water outlines plan to restore Big Swamp and Boundary Creek

In 2019, Barwon Water was ordered by the state government to remediate Big Swamp.

The water authority had been pumping water from its aquifers for about 40 years to support Geelong’s water supplies, but this led to the waterways being drained, causing toxic soil, fish kills, and an increased risk of bushfires.

The Remediation and Environmental Protection Plan aims to improve water quality in these areas to allow for healthier ecosystems. The health of these areas also effect the health of the Barwon River.

Barwon Water managing director Tracey Slatter said the authority would strategise with various parties to carry the plan out and would adapt when required.

“We will work closely with independent technical experts throughout every stage of the proposed remediation plan.

“If we find further action is needed, the proposed remediation plan can be adapted to incorporate appropriate contingency measures, as advised by technical experts, which could include treating water leaving Big Swamp.”

Much of the plan focuses on the rewetting of Big Swamp.

This will partially be done through the construction of hydraulic barriers to manage the water flow across the swamp.

Barwon Water will also aim to prevent dry vegetation classes from spreading onto the swamp and ensure there is a regular flow of water into the swamp.

The authority developed the plan over 18 months with the help of scientific studies, community feedback, and advice from independent technical experts.

While there is no exact timeline for the remediation of these areas, improvement is expected to be seen within a decade.