The City of Greater Bendigo is taking advantage of lower water levels due to major maintenance works on the Kennington Reservoir dam wall, to undertake a range of works to improve environmental and recreational fishing conditions and opportunities.
The works will include:
- Deepening parts of the reservoir by creating pools and channels
- Use of the 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 improve water quality and food and nesting resources for wildlife
- Increasing access for fishing by creating casting spots along the banks using rocks, logs and native vegetation
- Restocking with a more diverse suite of fish species, including native baitfish
- Installation of interpretive and safety signage
- Construction of a canoe ramp to improve water access for non-powered boats
City of Greater Bendigo Climate Change and Environment Manager Michelle Wyatt said the City has received a $110,000 grant from the Victorian Fisheries Authority Recreational Fishing Grants Program to undertake the works.
“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,” Ms 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.
“It’s a great opportunity for the City to achieve additional biodiversity benefits and enhance opportunities for the community to access and interact at this popular spot.
“Kennington Reservoir is home to lots of waterbirds, fish, turtles and more and while works are underway the reservoir will look very different. The water level will be very low, it will be muddy and messy and much of the wildlife will 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.”
If residents notice any injured wildlife they can contact Wildlife Victoria 24 hours a day on 8400 7300 24.
In addition, the City is hosting "Talkin Turtles” with Graham Stockfeld from Turtles Australia over two sessions on Saturday April 20. The first session will take place at Goldfields Library Bendigo from 1:30-2:30pm. The second session will take place on-site at Kennington Reservoir picnic area in Reservoir Road from 3pm-4pm.