GRAZIERS on the southern fringe of the Great Barrier Reef have taken up the mantle to protect the iconic asset, undertaking projects to reduce sediment run off.
Despite being inland, landholders in the Morinish and Princhester areas are doing their bit to prevent sediment from reaching the Fitzroy River catchment which is the largest river system draining to the reef.
The lower Fitzroy tributaries, such as Ten Mile Creek and Louisa Creek are one of the largest contributors of sediment in the Fitzroy River catchment, which impact corals and seagrasses on the reef.
Morinish resident Jeff Mills, of Melrose Station is among those working with Catchment Solutions to improve environmental outcomes on his property.
Mr Mills has 7000 hectares and measures the distance to the coast by river, 160km, rather than road.
He said that working with Catchment Solutions under the Reef Trust IV program had allowed him to install an additional water point, reshape eroding gullies and fence off gullies to reduce erosion.
”We have installed contour banks on our country to minimise concentrated stormwater flows which will assist in preventing the gully erosion that is occurring,” Mr Mills said.
Project Coordinator Philip Jeston said it was great to see proactive graziers joining the program.
”Catchment Solutions is working closely with landholders to ensure we have an outcome that meets the graziers’ requirements, while achieving a reduction in sediment loss from these properties,” Mr Jetson said.
He said funding and assistance was still available to landholders in the Lower Fitzroy River region to address erosion of stream banks and gullies through creek and gully restoration.
The funds can be used for a number of remediation activities including off-stream watering points, fencing off creeks and gullies as well as earthworks to prevent further gully erosion.
Catchment Solutions has partnered with Healthy Soils and Conservation Volunteers Australia to deliver the project, with $3.8 million provided by the Australian Government, under the Reef Trust program.
Landholders interested in the program can visit www.catchmentsolutions.com.au for more information.
