Protecting Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh – weed removal and native revegetation

Our rivers and creeks are essential to our way of life. That’s why at Melbourne Water we’re working with the community to improve the health of a section of the Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh.

We are removing selected trees and vegetation that are invasive weeds then replanting the area with more than 8,000 native trees and plants.

Our maintenance program will also include rabbit control.

These works will improve the health of this waterway by protecting it from erosion while ensuring the local platypus population and other native animals and plants can thrive.

What do the works involve?

In consultation with Moorabool Shire Council, Friends of Werribee River through Bacchus Marsh and Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance we are removing vegetation and selected trees, considered as invasive woody weeds, to make way for native replanting. Only selected trees are being removed; we are retaining trees that are important for shade and as habitat for native birds and animals.

These invasive tree species include peppercorn, elm, poplar and willows which negatively impact waterway health as they have thick canopies and prevent lower native vegetation from establishing. A number of swamp she-oak trees are also being removed as they are not locally indigenous to this area and are considered weedy and potentially invasive.

Big logs have been left on site so their hollows can contribute to habitat for native birds and animals. Other trees have been turned into mulch which has been given to the local community.

We are replanting the affected areas of the waterway with more than 8,000 trees, shrubs and smaller ground covering plants that are native to this area.

A maintenance program will include rabbit control which will help to protect the new native plants while they develop.

By working together with the community we can protect this section of the Werribee River and restore native habitat for generations to come.

Local impacts

Traffic management and signage along a shared user path will be in place for pedestrians and cyclists while the works are taking place.

Timing and location

Tree removal works commenced in early May and will finish by 20 June. Replanting of the area will commence 25 June and finish in mid-July, with ongoing maintenance while the new plants and trees establish.

Works will be done along the Werribee River in Bacchus Marsh from Halletts Way to Boyes Close Bridge.

Contact us

Melbourne Water via 131 722 or [email protected]