By Carol Saffer<\/p>\n
Community members are needed to help Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group (MCLG increase Platypus numbers in the East Moorabool River.<\/p>\n
A survey conducted in May 2021 revealed that Platypus in the East Moorabool River are either very scarce or not present.<\/p>\n
MCLG will hold a planting day this Saturday, 6 August, to protect and enhance the habitat.<\/p>\n
The Group\u2019s coordinator Jackson Cass said the planting would cover a diverse range of native vegetation to improve this piece of vital territory.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will be planting riparian vegetation on the area between the land and the river,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOverhanging trees are referred to as riparian when planted on a river\u2019s edge to help to reduce erosion.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe leaves drop into the river and feed water bugs and insects, which are the food supply for the Platypus.\u201d<\/p>\n
The trees also provide burrowing areas for the animals.<\/p>\n
Platypuses are currently found at the western end of the river.<\/p>\n
When the new habitat area is established, expecting them to travel up river is not unrealistic.<\/p>\n
Mr Cass will lead a discussion on the day about Platypus conservation in the Moorabool Catchment.<\/p>\n
He will explain how simple steps from the community, such as reducing the river\u2019s plastics and litter, can help the project.<\/p>\n
Moorabool Shire Council provided $3000 in funding for the event from a Sustainability and Environmental Engagement Grant.<\/p>\n
The Platypus Planting Day will take place at 2917 Ballan-Meredith Road Ballan on Saturday, 6 August, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, with a BBQ lunch supplied.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
By Carol Saffer Community members are needed to help Moorabool Catchment Landcare Group (MCLG increase Platypus numbers in the East Moorabool River. A survey conducted in May 2021 revealed that Platypus in the East Moorabool River are either very scarce or not present. MCLG will hold a planting day this Saturday, 6 August, to protect […]<\/p>\n