GreenShore Connections Project

GreenShore Connections aims to restore the natural vegetation and connect local residents to the reserve.


Background

Lake Street Foreshore Reserve is situated on the shores of iconic Merimbula Lake, a key natural asset for the popular tourist town of Merimbula in the Bega Valley Shire. The Reserve contains a rare example of a remnant Littoral Rainforest pocket nestled within a township in the Shire and is a significant place for local Aboriginal culture. Through the focal point of Littoral Rainforest restoration, the project will connect cultures, and connect locals to the Reserve on their doorstep. On-ground works including weed removal and upgrades to the existing walking track will be complemented by a ‘Littoral Rainforest’ education program, to increase the awareness of local residents of the natural and cultural values of the Reserve and encourage local stewardship of the site. The project builds on a broader vision to develop a cycle path along Lake Street to further increase opportunities for locals and tourists to connect with the Reserve.

Purpose

To restore the natural vegetation and connect local residents to the reserve.

Being a linear reserve which is 50 meters wide and stretching one kilometre it has to contend with significant edge effects including weed incursion, garden dumping and stormwater. The primary concerns are the suite of weeds undermining the integrity of the natural vegetation communities at the reserve. Some of the weeds include various asparagus ferns including bridal veil creeper, polygala, japanese honeysuckle, privet and cotoneaster. Some of these weeds have the ability to transform a community overtime preventing recruitment of juvenile plants and changing the soil conditions which are not suitable for natives. Its proximity to urban development also exposes the site to an assortment of garden escapees. The main gully which feeds into the foreshore reserve is a key concern, providing a significant source of weed material. Many of these issues relate to social behaviours and practices surrounding the reserves in this area.

Funding

  • 71K from the NSW Environmental Trust

Community Strategic Plan (CSP) link

This project is connected to Council's Community Strategic Plan Outcome 3 Sustainable Living: Goal 5 Our air and water is pristine and our natural environment and rural landscapes are protected.

Map of Restoration area

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Map showing GreenShore Connections Project area.

Who to talk to

Project timeline

 

Stage 1 Activities

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

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