PIGMAN CREEK RIPARIAN RESTORATION ENVIROFUND PROJECT

GRANT No. 48400-------2004-2005 FUNDING

This project will …
…prevent further erosion of the floodway to Pigman Creek and restore vegetation along Pigman Creek, where, for many years livestock have accessed the creek for shade and water.

The project will construct 1500 metres of floodway fencing and 1500 metres of creek bank fencing to improve farm management practices within the riparian zone. Stock access will be managed, weed control undertaken and natural regeneration encouraged along Pigman Creek. Native species will be planted within the floodway.
(Whilst not funded by the project, the land owner has installed cattle water troughs away from the creek.)

The Dyraaba Landcare Group is a new group in a traditional farming area. The project addresses a problem that replicates throughout their sub catchment area
Soils in this area are highly dispersible. Erosion is increasing through the floodway due to earlier farming practices and transferring sediment into the upper catchment of Pigman Creek. Unimpeded access to the riparian zone would continue to compound the problem.
The floodway and a section of the creek will use electric fencing. This will facilitate temporary removal of the fence during flooding and also allow strip grazing/ weed control by stock when appropriate.

Dyraaba Creek Landcare members have seen the success of fencing off waterways from livestock in the Tweed Brunswick and Alstonville areas of the far north coast. Recent trials in Queensland have also shown the benefit of removable or collapsible fencing in flood zones.
Dyraaba Creek Landcare Group is the first group to actively promote changes in riparian management practices in the Dyraaba Station area. This project will provide opportunity for local graziers to view the advantages of riparian rehabilitation combined with strategic stocking.

Within two years of completion we expect to see a marked improvement in the existing eroded areas. Within 12 months the floodway will be fenced to exclude stock and revegetated. The riparian zone will be fenced to complete stock management on both sides of the creek.
Most of the camphor laurel has already been eradicated, some lantana remains. We would expect to see these two plants basically replaced by natives as in the list attached.
The area will be regularly monitored by our members and staff from Richmond Landcare (of which we are members).
We would expect to see less evidence of erosion in the floodway. By the adoption of accepted bush regeneration techniques, we would also expect to see an increase in native plants establishing within the creek zone.

By establishing a number of photo points we would expect to monitor over time decreased erosion, less weeds and increased native vegetation. Strategic grazing will assist in weed control however cattle tracks should be eliminated due to the timing of grazing events.
Within 12 months a Dyraaba Landcare will develop a website to share their experience.