Creek restoration work aims to improve fish health through habitat rehabilitation program

ROUS County Council has finished a vital restoration project with $158,000 invested to improve fish habitats at Bungawalbin Creek.

The project has been funded through the Flagship Fish Habitat Rehabilitation Program administered by NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development.

Through the project, 200 meters of creek bank was rehabilitated using a hybrid mix of rock, timber structures and revegetation.

The works aim to halt erosion and are helping to restore the site using natural, environmentally sensitive materials.

Rural flood mitigation manager Chrisy Clay said the restoration works will improve the ecological condition of the waterway

“Bungawalbin Creek is a significant waterway in Richmond Valley, known for its ecological importance,” she said.

“We have taken a soft-engineering design that mimics the natural environment and complements the creek’s rich riparian habitat.

“By stabilising the creek banks and re-establishing native vegetation, we are protecting water quality while also supporting habitats for fish and other native species.

The project included native plantings and fencing to exclude cattle from entering the riparian zone.

It created a crucial buffer that supports vegetation, stabilises the bank, and improves habitat.

The creek bank will help protect the site during extreme weather events in the future.

Rous general manager Phillip Rudd said project is important in improving the long-term health and resilience of local waterways.

“This project is a great example of how thoughtful approaches to restoration works can deliver environmental benefits,” he said.

“Rous will continue to work collaboratively with project stakeholders and monitor the site, to evaluate the long-term success of the works.

“We are grateful to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development for supporting projects in our region that significantly enhance fish habitat, water quality, and fish passage opportunities within NSW coastal catchments.”