VIC

WETLANDS are essential for the health of people and the planet!

With 35 per cent of the world's wetlands having disappeared in the past 50 years, West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (WGCMA) is proud to be working all year round reflecting this year's World Wetlands Day theme to 'revive and restore degraded wetlands.

Celebrated annually on February 2, the international day aims to raise global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and planet.

In Gippsland there are many ecologically and recreationally important wetlands, including two Ramsar-listed wetlands – Gippsland Lakes and Corner Inlet.

"There is a lot to celebrate about the restoration and protection of wetlands across the vast West Gippsland region," said WGCMA CEO Martin Fuller.

"As well as having strong cultural significance, they provide essential habitat for wading birds and wildlife. They also protect the environment by capturing and filtering water and acting as a natural sponge to absorb, store and reduce flood levels."

"There are many examples of wetland restoration in keeping with this year's theme – including mighty stories of partnerships to restore and protect wetlands such as Heyfield, Heart Morass and the Lower Latrobe," said Martin.

"There are also many private landholders who have created wetlands on their property and are actively contributing to ongoing wetland recovery across the region."

The CMA is proud to be part of protecting these wetlands that have all been improved through community effort such as tree planting with Landcare and partners, citizen science monitoring through programs like Waterwatch and strong partnerships to secure funding for initiatives such as watering infrastructure in the Lower Latrobe.

Results from ongoing efforts are encouraging and the combination of recent high rainfall and ongoing, managed, deliveries of environmental water are seeing wetlands coming back to life along with wildlife, including endangered species such as the Australasian Bittern and Growling Grass Frog, returning to feed and breed.

"Wetlands are essential to the health of the West Gippsland catchment and we will continue to work together with Traditional Owners, community and partners to help these important ecosystems thrive. Much of the groundwork has been done and we look forward to continuing to redress the impact on these important areas," said Martin.

Article Attrition: South Gippsland Sentinel Times