A trial to physically remove a rotting algal mat along the shoreline of the Vasse Estuary was carried out last week to see if the algae could be removed successfully to alleviate foul smells and provide relief to Wonnerup residents. Sandgroper Contractors used a liquid waste truck with a boom hose to remove the algal...Continue Reading
A health check of the Vasse River has revealed its significant ecological value with a system rich in native fish and crayfish. Scientists from the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) compared three sites as part of the Healthy Rivers program. The findings, which included data on water quality, vegetation, fish and macroinvertebrate (bugs),...Continue Reading
The sandbar at the entrance of the Vasse Diversion Drain in Busselton has been opened as part of a trial to improve water quality in warmer months. During summer, water quality in the lower parts of the drain can deteriorate due to low flows, warm water temperature, and high levels of nutrients. At this time...Continue Reading
Three draft plans that will help determine how our local wetlands and waterways are managed into the future are now available for public comment. The three plans will guide future management actions to improve waterway health and water quality in the Lower Vasse River, Toby Inlet and the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands. The City of Busselton...Continue Reading
Local soil testing contractors will finish soil sampling across 21 farms in the Geographe catchment this week as part of a three year program that is hoped will be a win-win for both farmers and our waterways. The soil testing is part of a three year program that is helping farmers make evidence-based decisions on...Continue Reading
A research project is about to start on the Vasse Wonnerup wetlands looking at the relationship between seagrasses and black swan grazing. The project, being undertaken by Masters student Caitlyn O’Dea from Edith Cowan University, will be conducted across three estuaries; the Swan-Canning, Leschenault and Vasse-Wonnerup. “ This project aims to improve our understanding of...Continue Reading
Changes to the management of Vasse Estuary water levels to prevent algal blooms and fish kills have gained support from the local community. More than 40 community members attended a meeting in Busselton last week about the proposed changes to improve water quality – which include opening the Wonnerup Inlet sandbar and Vasse surge barrier...Continue Reading
36 fertiliser trials will be established across the South West WA over the next three years to test phosphorus requirements under local conditions and with new pasture species as part of a new Smart Farming Partnership project. The trials will explore innovative technology and practices to improve nutrient use efficiency on grazing farms in south...Continue Reading
The Revitalising Geographe Waterways program has been announced as finalists in the WA Program Innovation Award for the Australian Water Association (AWA) 2018 awards. The award recognises programs that are innovative with outstanding features that set them apart from common practice, are relevant to the Australian water industry and have strong water resource benefits and...Continue Reading
Busselton student Sebastian Taylor road tested a career in water quality monitoring and science during his work experience last week at the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER). Seb is a year 10 student at Georgiana Molloy Anglican School and is interested in doing a double degree in marine science and marine biology at...Continue Reading
