A Word from the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator (February 2025)
As the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator at Riverina Local Land Services, I’m incredibly excited to be part of the Murrumbidgee River Habitat Restoration Project. This initiative, led by Hay Landcare in partnership with OzFish Unlimited, Hay Shire Council, and ourselves, is a shining example of how collaborative efforts can bring about meaningful environmental change.
The Murrumbidgee River is a vital ecosystem that provides habitat for a diverse range of fish and wildlife species. Unfortunately, the river has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including habitat degradation, invasive species, and the impacts of climate change. This project aims to address these challenges by restoring critical fish habitat and improving the overall health of the river.
Key highlights of the project include the installation of 15 large woody structures to provide shelter and breeding grounds for native fish, the removal of invasive plant species, and the planting of 2,000 native trees and shrubs to stabilize riverbanks and enhance habitat.
This project will not only benefit the environment but also the local community. By improving the health of the Murrumbidgee River, we’re ensuring that it remains a valuable resource for generations to come. The project will also create opportunities for recreation and tourism, boosting the local economy.
I’m confident that the Murrumbidgee River Habitat Restoration Project will be a success. With the support of our partners and the Hay community, we can make a real difference in the health of this important waterway.
This article was written by Jade Auldist. Jade is the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator for the Riverina region. Her role supports farmers, industry and community groups (including Landcare Groups) to adopt new and innovative sustainable agriculture practices.
For further information on this article, please contact Jade at jade.auldist@lls.nsw.gov.au.