Improving the Health of Merri Creek
10 February 2009
Melbourne Water will begin work in late February to help improve the health of Merri Creek between Murray Road and Bell Street, Coburg.
Exotic weeds like willow trees, desert ash, boxthorn, prickly pear, blackberry and blue periwinkle will be removed and replaced with suitable native trees and shrubs.
Two large feature willows will be retained, one upstream of the pedestrian bridge off Connolly Avenue, and the other at the upstream end of the pool opposite Spring Street.
We expect the weed removal works to take three weeks to complete, depending on the site and weather conditions, and we hope to begin revegetation works in autumn 2009.
Noise and dust
The tree removal works means the use of chain saws and chippers on site. Unfortunately, this work will be noisy and likely to produce dust. Melbourne Water regrets this inconvenience to nearby residents and path users and will ensure the work is completed as quickly as possible.
Temporary closure of shared path along Merri Creek
While every effort will be made to keep the shared path along the creek open, it will be closed at times for public safety. Clearly signed diversion routes will be in place at these times. The shared path will only be closed during construction hours from Monday to Fridays.
Why remove willows?
Willows are an introduced species from Europe and North America and were planted along riverbanks to control erosion.
While many people consider willows to be an attractive feature along waterways, there are strong environmental reasons for their removal.
Their characteristic dense canopy, invasive roots and heavy leaf fall can smother our creeks and lead to reduced habitat and food for fish and platypus, as well as poor water quality and flow.
Willows out compete our native trees, and they can affect the natural ecological balance of rivers and creeks if they're not managed properly.
These works will help improve the health of the creek and improve habitat for local wildlife.
What will the creek look like?
The tree stumps will be left in the ground to minimise disturbance to the banks, but will be cut off as close as possible to ground level.
During autumn 2009, a total of 2540 local trees and shrubs will be planted along the creek. These new plants will gradually fill out and create a better habitat for native birds and animals.
Contact us
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Telephone: 1800 034 505