Sustainability Report 2006/07

Waterways

Completed extensive work to prepare the five-year Waterways Water Plan, which sets out expected investment in waterway health and flood protection across the region. The plan was endorsed by the Essential Services Commission
Finalised the Waterways Water Quality Strategy to manage effects of stormwater, urban development pressures and rural land management, and improve water quality in the Port Phillip and Westernport region
Released the Port Phillip and Westernport Region Flood Management and Drainage Strategy, and began working with councils, emergency service organisations, researchers and the community to implement key actions
Preparations and extensive community and stakeholder communications were completed for the introduction of a new waterways and drainage charge in our extended operating area.

We did not achieve our cumulative target of reducing nitrogen by 59 tonnes in waterways flowing to Port Phillip Bay through wetlands and other on-ground works. We achieved a 56.1-tonne reduction but are still on track to achieve a 100-tonne reduction by 2010.

With more than 100,000 properties identified at risk of flooding, an increase in household numbers and possible climate change impacts, flood and drainage management will need to anticipate and adapt to changing circumstances
Managing the potential impacts of climate change on river health such as increased average and summer temperatures, reduced rainfall and more intense storms
Working with water users to protect environmental flows in our rivers and creeks
Protecting existing environmental values and river health while providing services for urban growth associated with projected population growth of 800,000 people by 2030
Understanding and responding to the needs and expectations of diverse communities in a region with 3.8 million people and 38 councils.