Community support is needed at a public meeting next week to ensure a healthy future for Stringybark Creek.
The Stringybark Creek Streamflow Management Plan, on display for public comment until August 4, will provide the minimum flow recommended by scientists within the next five years.
According to the State Government’s own environmental assessment, the creek, which meets the Yarra near Lilydale, is in poor condition with low flows and highly disturbed vegetation.
A public meeting on the Stringybark Creek Streamflow Management Plan will be held by Melbourne Water 4-6pm on Wednesday July 19 at Lilydale Lake Hall, Swansea Rd.
Environment Victoria’s Healthy Rivers Community Campaigner Juliet Le Feuvre said the creek was a valuable community asset and the area was home to several threatened species including the growling grass frog, powerful owls and the swamp pea bush.
“Stingybark creek flows into Melbourne’s beloved Yarra River. The Yarra can only be as healthy as the rivers that feed it. Healthy rivers mean healthy communities.”
“Minimum flows are just that: the bare minimum required to keep the creek alive. We want flows that will provide better conditions for water quality, fish breeding and help control the weeds that are choking the creek,” Ms Le Feuvre said.
Ms Le Feuvre called on the community to speak up for their local waterways.
“This is an opportunity for people who know and love the Creek to voice their concern and demand healthy, flourishing waterways,” she said.
“I’d encourage anyone who cares about the creek to come along and have their say.”