Warrego and Barwon-Darling Valleys
NSW DPIRD Fisheries | $1,248,723
$900,000 CEWH | $348,723 NSW DPIRD Fisheries
The Darling-Baaka River has lost much of its natural woody habitat due to historic de-snagging. This, along with drought and reduced flows, has led to:
- poor river health
- fish deaths
- declining native species.
Problem
Long-term monitoring via the CEWH's Flow-MER Program showed Murray cod populations in the Bourke-Louth reach was critically low and needed more than water to recover.
Response
The project addressed this historic de-snagging by reinstating large woody habitat (snags) along priority sites in the Bourke-Louth reach.
The project aimed to restore critical habitat and support recovery of native fish populations, particularly Murray cod. It is delivered in partnership with:
- CEWH
- NSW DPIRD Fisheries
- Barkandji Traditional Owners.
Delivery
The project has delivered:
- 48 snag complexes installed
- 385 individual snags reinstated
- ~446 tonnes of woody habitat returned to the river
Outcomes and Strategic Value
Reinstating snags is expected to:
- Improve habitat complexity, including shelter, spawning and refuge areas
- Increase food availability and support nutrient cycling
- Enhance flow variability and hydraulic diversity
- Provide refuge during low-flow periods
- Support freshwater mussels and other native species
- Improve overall ecosystem function and resilience
Importantly, the project complements environmental water delivery by improving in-stream habitat condition and helping to maximise ecological outcomes that can be achieved. The project also strengthens broader Murray Darling Basin Plan outcomes by:
- Supporting recovery of Murray cod populations in the Darling-Baaka
- Complementing related programs (e.g. resnagging and riparian fencing)
- Enabling future actions, including potential reintroduction of threatened species
