Narrung WMP 2006 Small

Narrung wetland

MANAGEMENT PLAN 2006

LAPS

Lower Murray Local Action Planning Groups

Kjartan Tumi Bjornsson

This management plan was written by Kjartan Tumi Bjornsson for the Coorong District Local

Action Plan Committee, and reviewed and endorsed by the SA River Murray Wetland Technical

Group.

Funding was provided by the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality, the Natural

Heritage Trust, and the South Australian Murray Darling Basin Natural Resources Management

Board (SAMDBNRMB).

The management plan has been prepared according to the Guidelines for developing wetland

management plans for the River Murray in South Australia 2003 (River Murray Catchment Water

Management Board and Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2003) and as

such fulfils obligations under the Water Allocation Plan for the River Murray Prescribed

Watercourse.

Disclaimer:

The Coorong District Local Action Plan Committee do not guarantee that the publication is without

flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaim all

liability for any error, loss or other consequences which may arise from you relying on any

information in this publication.

Cite as:

Bjornsson, K. T. (2006). Narrung Wetland Management Plan. Coorong District Local Action Plan

Committee, Tintinara.

Acknowledgements:

This wetland management plan has been developed with the support of a number of organisations,

community groups and individuals. Special thanks go to Adrienne Frears and Jem Tesoriero for

assistance with the development of the plan.

Thanks also go to those that contributed their knowledge including, Derek Walker and Steve

Walker both of the Ngarrindjeri nation (traditional landowner cultural values) the Narrung wetland

landowners, the SAMDBNRMB and the members of the South Australian River Murray Wetland

Technical Group.

For further details contact:

Coorong District LAP

PO Box 1021

Tintinara SA 5266

Phone: (08) 8757 2100

Fax: (08) 8757 2222

Photographs:

Cover photograph: Top Narrung wetland from the north (TB),

Bottom: Narrung wetland from the south (TB)

Photographs in document by Tumi Bjornsson (TB), Jem Tesoriero (JT)

© Coorong District Local Action Plan 2006

Narrung Wetland Management Plan 2006

i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................... i

LIST OF FIGURES ...................................................................................................................... ii

LIST OF MAPS ........................................................................................................................... iii

LIST OF TABLES ........................................................................................................................ iii

Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION ..................................................................................................... 1

Section 1.01 Environmental, Social and Cultural Significance of wetland ............................. 1

(a) History of Narrung wetland .......................................................................................... 1

Section 1.02 Why does Narrung wetland need a management plan? ................................... 2

(a) Mission Statement ....................................................................................................... 2

(b) Vision Statement ......................................................................................................... 2

(c) Broad Objectives ......................................................................................................... 2

(d) Current Achievements ................................................................................................. 3

Chapter 2. SITE DESCRIPTION OF NARRUNG WETLAND .................................................... 4

Section 2.01 Wetland Location and description .................................................................... 4

Section 2.02 Survey Sites, Dates & Locations ...................................................................... 6

Section 2.03 PHYSICAL FEATURES ................................................................................... 7

(a) Narrung wetland in Current State ................................................................................. 7

(b) Geomorphology, Geology And Soils .......................................................................... 10

(c) Climate ...................................................................................................................... 10

(d) Wetland Volumes and Water Requirements for various filling stages ........................ 10

(e) Surface and Groundwater Features ........................................................................... 11

Section 2.04 ECOLOGICAL FEATURES ............................................................................ 17

(a) Flora .......................................................................................................................... 17

(b) Fauna ........................................................................................................................ 18

Chapter 3. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL VALUES ................................................. 24

Chapter 4. LAND TENURE, JURISDICTION AND MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS ......... 25

Section 4.01 LAND TENURE .............................................................................................. 25

Section 4.02 LAND AND WATER USE ............................................................................... 25

Section 4.03 JURISDICTION AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY ...................................... 26

Chapter 5. THREATS AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS TO NARRUNG WETLAND ................. 27

Chapter 6. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES .............................................................................. 30

Chapter 7. IMPLEMENTATION OF PLAN ............................................................................... 33

Section 7.01 ON GROUND ACTION AND TIMETABLE ..................................................... 35

Section 7.02 WETLAND WATER OPERATIONAL PLAN ................................................... 37

(a) Water regime ............................................................................................................. 37

(b) Volume calculations ................................................................................................... 38

Chapter 8. MONITORING ....................................................................................................... 42

Chapter 9. EVALUATION, REVIEW AND REPORTING .......................................................... 44


ii

Section 9.01 Evaluation and Review ................................................................................... 44

Section 9.02 Reporting ....................................................................................................... 44

Chapter 10. REFERENCES ...................................................................................................... 45

Appendix A. Wetlands Atlas Data for Wetland Main Body .......................................................... 47

Appendix B. Surface Water Archive Graph ................................................................................ 48

Appendix C. Baseline Survey Locations (Source SKM (2004) .................................................... 49

Appendix D. Baseline Survey DEM (Source SKM (2004) ........................................................... 50

Appendix E. Baseline Survey Groundwater ............................................................................... 52

Appendix F. Baseline Survey Vegetation Zones ........................................................................ 58

Appendix G. Species List for Narrung wetland ....................................................................... 59

Section G.01 FLORA ........................................................................................................... 59

Section G.02 WETLAND AND FLOODPLAIN FAUNA ......................................................... 61

(a) Birds of Narrung Surrounds and Lower Lakes ........................................................... 61

Appendix H. Evaporation and precipitation obtained using the Wetland Loss Calculator. ........... 64

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Very clear water in main lagoon (0 NTU) 25/11/05 (TB) ................................................... 8

Figure 2: Charophytes in main lagoon 25/11/05 (TB) ...................................................................... 8

Figure 3: Main lagoon from causeway 25/11/05 (TB) ...................................................................... 9

Figure 4: Causeway separating the south east and main lagoons 27/01/06 (TB) ............................ 9

Figure 5: Main lagoon with causeway and south east lagoon on right hand side of photo 27/01/06 (TB) ......................................................................................................................................... 9

Figure 6: Lake Albert and south east lagoon (dry) divided by road causeway 27/01/06 (TB) ........... 9

Figure 7: Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (AF) .............................................................................. 10

Figure 8: Narrung Inlet wetland connection to Narrung Narrows 08/03/06 (TB) ............................. 10

Figure 9: Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (TB) .............................................................................. 10

Figure 10: Area of Narrung used for volume estimates (SKM 2004).............................................. 11

Figure 11: North channel seen from wetland 08/03/06 (TB) .......................................................... 14

Figure 12: North channel partially blocked 08/03/06 (TB) .............................................................. 14

Figure 13: North channel connection to Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (TB) ................................ 14

Figure 14: North channel blocked connection to Lake Alex. 08/03/06 (TB) ................................... 14

Figure 15: South channel leading up to pipe culvert 08/03/06 (TB) ............................................... 15

Figure 16: South channel pipe culvert under Alexandrina drive 08/03/06 (TB) .............................. 15

Figure 17: South channel connection to Narrung wetland 08/03/06 (TB) ....................................... 15

Figure 18: South channel connection to Lake Alexandrina 08/03/06 (TB) ..................................... 15

Figure 19: Juncus acutus (JT) ....................................................................................................... 27

Figure 20: Juncus acutus detail (JT) ............................................................................................. 27

Figure 21: Water regime scenario ................................................................................................. 38

Figure 22: Lake Alexandrina water level at Narrung Jetty (10 year period) ................................... 48


iii

LIST OF MAPS

Map 1: Narrung wetland fence ........................................................................................................ 3

Map 2: Narrung wetland location ..................................................................................................... 5

Map 3: On ground work suggested by Woodward-Clyde (2000) to improve the connection of the wetland with the lakes (adapted from (Woodward-Clyde 2000)) .............................................. 6

Map 4: Identification of the lagoons ................................................................................................. 8

Map 5: Current water movement into the wetland ......................................................................... 13

Map 6: Cadastral boundaries covering Narrung wetland and surrounds. ...................................... 25

Map 7: On ground work at Narrung wetland .................................................................................. 33

Map 8: Expected water movement within Narrung wetland ........................................................... 34

Map 9: Wetland Fences (current and future) ................................................................................. 35

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: Baseline survey monitoring of following parameters .......................................................... 7

Table 2: Summary of wetland volumes within Narrung wetland (adapted from (SKM 2004)) ......... 11

Table 3: Water quality ................................................................................................................... 12

Table 4: Community monitored water quality (table provided by A. Frears (2006))........................ 13

Table 5: Groundwater monitoring locations (SKM 2004) ............................................................... 16

Table 6: Groundwater monitoring locations (SKM 2004) ............................................................... 16

Table 7: Groundwater salinity ms/cm ............................................................................................ 17

Table 8: Habitat features identified in Narrung wetland table adapted from (SKM 2004). .............. 19

Table 9: Birds identified during community survey ........................................................................ 21

Table 10: Native fish ..................................................................................................................... 22

Table 11: Introduced fish ............................................................................................................... 22

Table 12: Community collected macroinvertebrates (table provided by A. Frears (2006)) ............. 23

Table 13: Narrung wetland responsible positions contact details .................................................. 26

Table 14: Existing and prospective threats to Narrung wetland ..................................................... 28

Table 15: Management objectives for Narrung wetland................................................................. 31

Table 16: Implementation plan for Narrung wetland land based activities. .................................... 36

Table 17: Water required over fill period of Narrung wetland ......................................................... 40

Table 18: Water use calculation .................................................................................................... 41

Table 19: Photopoint locations ...................................................................................................... 42

Table 20: Monitoring plan for Narrung wetland. ............................................................................. 43

Table 21: Narrung wetland, Wetland atlas data (Jensen, Paton et al. 1996) ................................. 47

Table 22: Plant Associations at Narrung wetland (adapted from River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004)) .............................................................................................................. 59

Table 23: Vegetation identified by the local community (table provided by A. Frears (2006)) ........ 60


iv

Table 24: Bird species identified at Narrung wetland (adapted from River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004)) ............................................................................................... 61

Table 25: Water birds at 23 sites bordering Lakes Alexandrina and Albert (adapted from (Gosbell 2004)) ................................................................................................................................... 61

Table 26: Calculated water loss (evaporation – precipitation) from the Wetland Loss Calculator for the main lagoon ..................................................................................................................... 64


1

Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION

Since the adoption of the Water Allocation Plan for the River Murray in 2002 the wetlands of South

Australia have an annual water allocation of 200GL. To access this water allocation for wetland

management, a licence is now required.

The allocation of water required for Narrung wetland is mainly in response to Section 5.1.

Objectives of the Water Allocation Plan for the River Murray (River Murray Catchment Water

Management Board 2002) Principle:

2 “Provide for the water needs of water-dependent ecosystems” and

6(e) “Provide for the allocation and use of water to prevent adverse impacts on the health,

biodiversity status of habitat value of floodplains, or wetlands of conservation significance”

Narrung wetland is listed in the Water Allocation Plan for the River Murray (River Murray

Catchment Water Management Board 2002) and has therefore a right to access the 200GL. This

wetland management plan is structured in accordance with the criteria set out in the Guidelines for

developing wetland management plans for the River Murray in South Australia (River Murray

Catchment Water Management Board and Department of Water Land and Biodiversity

Conservation 2003).

SECTION 1.01 ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE OF WETLAND

The Wetland Atlas of the South Australian Murray Valley (Jensen, Paton et al. 1996) listed Narrung

wetland as having a high conservation value and to be of international, national, basin and local

importance (see Appendix A). The Narrung wetland was identified by Woodward-Clyde (2000) as

being one of to six priority wetlands for restoration in the Goolwa to Wellington and Coorong

District LAP areas.

Australia is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of National and International

Significance and was the first nation to establish a Ramsar site. Ramsar listing recognises the

importance of wetlands on an international scale on the basis of ecological, botanical, zoological,

limnological or hydrological criteria with includes the role a wetland plays as a waterbird habitat

(National Wetlands Program 1998; Bjornsson, Brodie et al. 2002). Narrung is within the Ramsar

area “The Coorong, Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert” listed 1st November 1985 (National

Wetlands Program 1998), which provide habitats for a number of water birds including migratory

species (see box). A part of the vision statement for the Coorong, and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert

Ramsar Management Plan includes the protection and restoration of natural habitats and the

restoration of viable native species (2000). This management plan is a contribution towards this

vision.

(a) HISTORY OF NARRUNG WETLAND

A short timeline of management at Narrung wetland (some data from local anecdotal evidence):

“The Coorong, Lake Alexandrina & Lake Albert. 01/11/85; South Australia; 140,500 ha; 35º40’S 139º00’E. National Park, Game Reserves and Crown Land; Shorebird Network Site. A saline to hypersaline lagoon separated from the ocean by a dune peninsula and connected to two lakes forming a wetland system at the river’s mouth. The lakes contain fresh to brackish water. The site is of international importance for migratory waterbirds, providing habitat for more than 30% of the waders summering in Australia. The site includes important nesting colonies of cormorants, herons, egrets, ibises and terns. The globally endangered Orange-bellied Parrot (Neophema chrysogaster) over-winters on the reserve. Human activities include camping, boating and regulated duck hunting. The area is noted for its extensive aboriginal, historic and geological sites. Ramsar site no. 321.” (Peck 2000).


2

1980 Narrung Narrows in Australian Heritage data base (Register of the National Estate)

due to its breeding colonies of IBIS and suitability for waterbirds in general

The Narrung wetland was possibly used for town water supply, anecdotal information (Dadd

2006)

The area would have been cleared during settlement when grazing was first introduced to

the area.

2004 Wetland fenced off

2000 included in the survey of wetlands around the lower lakes Identification of Potential Wetland Rehabilitation Sites (Woodward-Clyde 2000)

2003-2004 included in River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004)

2004/2006 wetland monitoring days with Narrung primary school

SECTION 1.02 WHY DOES NARRUNG WETLAND NEED A MANAGEMENT PLAN?

Causeways cut the wetland into separate lagoons. One causeway separates the wetland from Lake

Albert and a second causeway splits the wetland into three separate lagoons. As a result the wetland

only receives inflowing water through channels and rain. Consequently there is a high salinity

content through evapoconcentration, which is additionally fed by saline groundwater. The wetland

is possibly slowly degrading into a saltpan with temporary inundation and little ecological and

aesthetic value.

(a) MISSION STATEMENT

The rehabilitation of Narrung wetland is aimed at reinforcing wetland ecological values, such as

habitat (wetland fringing and aquatic vegetation) for the benefit of waterbirds, native fish species

and native vegetation.

(b) VISION STATEMENT

The vision for Narrung wetland is a revitalised semi permanent wetland fulfilling a diversity of

habitat requirements for both water birds and native fish species. It is envisaged that the wetland

will be a „healthy‟ shallow clear wetland with a high diversity of macrophytes (emergent and

submerged) providing habitat for native fish and birds. The wetland will have regular visits by

water birds, including migratory species. The riparian area will be revegetated with local native

species, both through active involvement with the removal of weed species and through the

encouragement of the growth/reestablishment of native fringing vegetation.

(c) BROAD OBJECTIVES

The management of the wetland, due to a change in legislation, now requires a water licence for

which a detailed operational management plan needs to be developed. The objectives listed below,

and in detail in Chapter 6, fulfil a number of the water allocation criteria from Section 5.3 of the

Water Allocation Plan for the River Murray (River Murray Catchment Water Management Board

2002). Once the wetland restoration has been achieved through appropriate management of water

regime and on ground works, the wetland would need to be maintained. The maintenance of a

restored wetland, fulfilling the functions described above and without an adverse impact on adjacent

farming operations, wetland and lake salinity or fish habitat requirements would involve regular

monitoring and adequate timely response. The maintenance phase would require regular monitoring

of water quality, bird life, fish and other aquatic dependent species as well as aquatic and fringing

vegetation.

The broad objectives of the wetland restoration include:

Restore wetland (hydrological regime and water quality)

Restore native aquatic and fringing vegetation and therefore habitat for native fauna


3

Restore habitat diversity for water birds and aquatic wildlife:

o Birds, assist to maintain diversity in the Ramsar area

o Fish, increase diversity and abundance

o Frogs, increase abundance and diversity

Monitor the impact of restored hydrology regime for adaptive management

(d) CURRENT ACHIEVEMENTS

The surrounding land is grazed. The wetland shoreline has therefore been fenced off to exclude

stock as can be seen in Map 1.

Map 1: Narrung wetland fence


4

Chapter 2. SITE DESCRIPTION OF NARRUNG WETLAND

SECTION 2.01 WETLAND LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION

Narrung wetland is listed as wetland number S0020 in the Wetlands Atlas (Jensen, Paton et al.

1996) and is part of the Lake Albert fringing wetland complex. The wetland is located adjacent to

the town of Narrung within the Coorong District Council area (Map 2). AMG coordinates 333860 E

6068744 N (Grid Zone 54). Narrung can be found on the 1:50,000 Narrung map sheet number

6726-4. The wetland is found in the Hundred of Baker. See Appendix A for more information.

Seaman (2003), as part of the Coorong and Lower Lakes habitat-mapping program, classified the

habitat condition of Narrung wetland as good to degraded (see box).

The wetland is divided up into three separate lagoons each having a separate and distinct hydrology.

The wetland is listed as having an area of 32 ha with a temporary water regime (Jensen, Paton et al.

1996), of which 30.9 ha is to the west of the causeway and 3.3 ha to the east of the causeway.

Narrung is regarded as very shallow with most of the wetland lagoons having a depth of less than

0.5 m (SKM 2004). The large main lagoon is connected to Lake Alexandrina through a long man

made channel, a natural overflow sometimes contributes to the flow into the wetland. The wetland

complex is separated from Lake Albert by a causeway on which a road connecting the town to the

ferry was constructed. The Coorong District Council manages this road. A second causeway

separates the three lagoons from each other and contributes to blocking any connection of the two

smaller lagoons to the lakes or the large main lagoon. In 2000 Woodward-Clyde (2000) surveyed

the Lower Lakes area for potential wetland rehabilitation sites. Narrung wetland was identified as

one of the top 6 priority wetlands for rehabilitation. The report identified the flow channel, a natural

flow path (overflow), and a potential culvert site shown in Map 3.

“Vegetation structure significantly altered by very obvious signs of multiple disturbances. Retains basic vegetation structure or ability to regenerate it (e.g. disturbance to vegetation structure caused by very frequent grazing). Presence of aggressive weeds at high density (50 – 70%). Core habitat areas exist that are buffered by scattered remnants. Species use of habitats is likely to be opportunistic. Structural diversity limited to isolated patches if at all, micro-habitats presence low.

Basic vegetation structure severely impacted by disturbance. Scope for revegetation but not to a state approaching good condition without intensive management. Disturbance to vegetation structure caused by cropping, grazing or clearance, presence of very aggressive weeds, partial clearing, dieback and livestock grazing. Weed presence greater than 70%. Habitats are impacted by disturbances and are not connected with remnant buffers.” (Seaman 2003).


5

Map 2: Narrung wetland location


6

Map 3: On ground work suggested by Woodward-Clyde (2000) to improve the connection of the wetland with the lakes (adapted from (Woodward-Clyde 2000))

The wetland sits to a large degree on privately held land with some owned by the Minister for

Environment and Heritage. The surrounding area being private ownership is used mainly for

grazing, with the town of Narrung along the eastern side of the wetland.

SECTION 2.02 SURVEY SITES, DATES & LOCATIONS

The River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004) monitored different wetland parameters

(Table 1). Narrung wetland was not inundated for the entire time of the baseline survey, therefore

not all parameters could be considered for monitoring for a full year. The baseline survey did not

monitor the fish or macroinvertebrates in the wetland. The locations of the baseline survey sites can

be seen in Appendix C.


7

Table 1: Baseline survey monitoring of following parameters

Parameter Surveyed Date 1

(BLS)

Date 2

(BLS)

Date 3

(BLS)

Date 4

(BLS)

Date 5 Date 6 See

page

BL

S

Oth

er

Site physical Y 2004 4

Vegetation Y 2004 17

Fish N 21

Birds Y Spring Summer 18

Frogs Y Spring Early

Summer Late

Summer Winter 21

Macroinvertebrates N 22

Water Quality Y Y 16/12/03 29/01/04 12/03/04 25/11/05 11

Groundwater Y 22/01/04 12/03/04 11/06/04 02/09/04 15

NR = Not Recorded, BLS = baseline survey (SKM 2004)

SECTION 2.03 PHYSICAL FEATURES

(a) NARRUNG WETLAND IN CURRENT STATE

Narrung has been grazed for an extended period of time, probably since the 1850‟s (State Library of

South Australia). As a result a lot of the native vegetation has been lost and weeds have been able to

spread throughout the complex. The past land use would account for the degradation of the

vegetation currently found in the wetland complex.

Map 4 identifies the lagoons of Narrung wetland. The wetland adjacent to Lake Alexandrina seen to

the north of Narrung wetland forms a part of an inlet to Narrung wetlands. This wetland has been

referred to as Narrung Inlet wetland and recommendations for its protection have been included in

this management plan. The main lagoon is shown as „wetland‟ in the map.


8

Map 4: Identification of the lagoons

Figure 1 through to Figure 6, show the wetland and its fringing vegetation in its current state. Figure

1 shows the very clear water of Narrung wetland, the high salinity and the charophytes, seen in

Figure 2, play a role in reducing the turbidity of the wetland, as the wetland is seasonally dry

sediment compaction could also contribute. At the same location during a dry autumn and a wet

spring Figure 3 shows the main lagoon in wet state. Figure 4 shows the causeway bisecting the

wetland into the east and main lagoons as seen from the town of Narrung whereas Figure 5 shows

the full view of the main lagoon from the town. The causeway, with Alexandrina Drive, separation

the wetland from Lake Albert can be seen in Figure 6.

Figure 1: Very clear water in main lagoon (0 NTU) 25/11/05 (TB)

Figure 2: Charophytes in main lagoon 25/11/05 (TB)


9

Figure 3: Main lagoon from causeway 25/11/05 (TB)

Figure 4: Causeway separating the south east and main lagoons 27/01/06 (TB)

Figure 5: Main lagoon with causeway and south east lagoon on right hand side of photo 27/01/06 (TB)

Figure 6: Lake Albert and south east lagoon (dry) divided by road causeway 27/01/06 (TB)

Narrung Inlet wetland, which seems to have a good connection to the Narrung Narrows and is

therefore maintained as a fresh water wetland, can be seen in Figure 7 and Figure 8. The connection

to the Narrung Narrows can be seen in Figure 9.


10

Figure 7: Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (AF)

Figure 8: Narrung Inlet wetland connection to Narrung Narrows 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 9: Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (TB)

(b) GEOMORPHOLOGY, GEOLOGY AND SOILS

The soil in the wetland was found to be mainly sand with some silt and clay in the upper layers

(SKM 2004). Copies of the soil logs from the baseline survey can be found in Appendix E locations

are also presented in Appendix E. Soil salinities increased slightly with depth showing a shallow

water table at 1.5 m depth. The wetland complex sits on the Bridgewater Formation from the

Pleistocene.

(c) CLIMATE

The following climatic conditions are taken from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) Meningie

station (number 024518) (Latitude (deg S): -35.6904; Longitude (deg E): 139.3375) (BOM 2005).

The recording of data commenced at Meningie in 1864; the latest records used in the assessment of

the climatic condition of the area stemming from 2004.

Narrung wetland has a Mediterranean climate with warm dry summers and cool wet winters. The

median (5th

decile) annual rainfall is 457 mm. The mean monthly maximum rainfall is in June (61.9

mm), the minimum in February (16.9 mm). The expected mean daily maximum temperature is

highest in February at 25.4 C, lowest in July at 14.9 C, and has an annual mean of 20.8 C. The

minimum daily temperature is at its maximum in January and February at 13.8 C, for both months,

and its minimum in July at 6.7 C. The annual mean daily minimum temperature is 10.3 C.

(d) WETLAND VOLUMES AND WATER REQUIREMENTS FOR VARIOUS FILLING STAGES

The wetland volume was calculated as part of the baseline survey. Table 2 summarises the wetland

water requirement for Narrung wetland as calculated for the area shown in Figure 10. A DEM was

developed for this area by the baseline survey (see Appendix D). The water requirement, including

evaporative loss, is covered in Section 7.02.


11

Figure 10: Area of Narrung used for volume estimates (SKM 2004)

Table 2: Summary of wetland volumes within Narrung wetland (adapted from (SKM 2004))

Filling Stage Area (ha) Area (m2) Depth m

RLm

(AHD)*

Volume m3

(KL) Volume ML

Full 33.0 330,209 0.68 0.70 103,394 103

Three quarters full 26.3 263,441 0.50 0.52 48,478 48

Half full 12.7 127,479 0.32 0.34 13,351 13

Quarter full 2.3 22,799 0.14 0.16 866 0.87

Result Reliability 75% (SKM 2004); *Base of wetland is at --0.018 m AHD.

(e) SURFACE AND GROUNDWATER FEATURES

(i) Surface water

For a some time, at the commencement of the baseline survey monitoring, the wetland was

inundated, this water was monitored for water quality (see Table 3), adapted from the baseline

survey report (SKM 2004)). The high and increasing salinity within the lagoon indicates

evapoconcentration and saline groundwater intrusion (SKM 2004). The lagoons of the wetland

complex are not permanently connected with the lake and are only rarely flushed. This condition

would contribute to the high salt concentrations within the lagoons due to the repeated

evapoconcentration. The concentration within the wetland rises as it dries to more than double that

of the EC expected in seawater, which is approximately 50,000 μS/cm. In comparison the

monitored Lake Alexandrina salinity obtained from the, DWLBC Surface Water Archive

(Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2005), has a median (calculated from

mean daily readings between 16/01/2004 and 27/04/2004) EC of 1364 μS/cm. The monitoring

location from which the DWLBC Surface Water Archive is derived is at Narrung Jetty (Zone 54,

335275 E and 6068331 N).


12

The dissolved oxygen concentrations were variable, SKM (2004) attributed this to the

photosynthetic activity of algae followed by low concentration as the salinity concentration

increased. The pH was alkaline possibly due to the limestone sediments or due to the consumption

of carbon dioxide by benthic and pelagic algae (SKM 2004). The turbidity measurements of the

wetland were low; this can potentially be contributed the high salinity promoting sediment

aggregation and sedimentation, other contributing factors could be the large numbers of

charophytes seen to grow in the wetland. Lake Alexandrina water temperature on the day of

wetland monitoring was slightly below the wetland water temperature (see Table 3) (Department of

Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2005). The temperatures of the wetland reflected the

ambient summer air temperatures (SKM 2004). The median water levels within Lake Alexandrina

for a 10-year period (1994 to 2004) is 0.774 m AHD (calculated from the daily mean water level

obtained from the, DWLBC Surface Water Archive (Department of Water Land and Biodiversity

Conservation 2005)). For a description of the implications of water quality in wetlands refer to Your

Wetland: Supporting Information (Tucker, Dominelli et al. 2003).

Table 3: Water quality

Parameters 16/12/03 29/01/04 12/03/04 25/11/05 (NAR01)

EC μS/cm Mean 33275 ± 2108

58125 ± 5162

N/A 27300

Min. 30900 54200 > 100, 000

Max. 35100 65700 > 100, 000

Jetty* 1256.2 1337.7

DO mg/L-1

Mean 12.6 ± 1.1 11.4 ± 0.9 1.1 ± 0.2

Min. 9.9 9.2 0.5

Max. 15.2 13.6 1.6

pH Mean 10.78 ± 0.17

8.92 ± 0.2 8.2 ± 0.05

Min. 10.38 8.57 8.06

Max. 11.11 9.33 8.3

Turbidity NTU Mean 13 ± 3 14 ± 0 73 ± 19 0 (20cm deep)

Min. 10 13 30

Max. 20 15 123

Water Temperature C Mean 31.1 ± 1.1 24.6 ± 1 22.4 ± 1

Min. 29.1 23 20.7

Max. 33.9 27.3 25.4

Jetty* 20.6 21.9 18.7

Lake height* Jetty* 0.778 0.679 0.582

n 4 4 4 1

N = sample size: NAR01 is at 334453 E 6068645 N (10.1 m accuracy), WGS 84 zone 54: * = from DWLBC Surface Water Archive (Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2005)

The local community has undertaken further water quality monitoring, see Table 4. Over a 5-month

period (Spring „03 to late Summer ‟04) the pH did not change. The salinity increased as a result of

evapoconcentration. The turbidity reduced either due to high salinity or sediment trapping by

Charophytes and Ruppia sp. The nutrient load also increased within the wetland. The nutrient

increase could be due to evapoconcentration and/or due to a reduction in uptake as algae growth

would be restricted at the higher salinity levels (Frears 2006).


13

Table 4: Community monitored water quality (table provided by A. Frears (2006))

Parameter 14/9/03 (early Spring) 12/2/04 (late Summer)

pH 8.5 8.5

Electrical Conductivity (Salinity) 24.3 mS/cm (24,300 EC) 65.5 mS/cm (65,500 EC)

Turbidity 80-100 NTU 40 NTU

Nitrate <0.05 0.1

Phosphate <0.025 0.1

The Flood Inundation Model (FIM III) does not extend downstream beyond Mannum and is

therefore unavailable for this region. No simulations were therefore performed for Narrung wetland

based on the Flood Inundation Model.

The current water flow into the wetland is mainly through Narrung Inlet wetland then down through

the northern channel, as seen in Map 5 and Figure 11. The north channel is slowly blocking up

through debris and sedimentation see Figure 12. The channel was previously connected directly to

the lake and is now blocked by fore dune build up see Figure 14. The current connection with

Narrung Inlet wetland can be seen in Figure 13. A second connection the southern channel (Figure

17), which seems to have a higher commence to flow level, runs parallel with Narrung road (Figure

15), and passes through a pipe culvert under Alexandrina drive, see Figure 16. The south channel

connects up with Lake Albert, see Map 5 and Figure 18. Both channels would allow minimal

exchange between the wetland and the lakes with a distance of 400 and 500 metres respectively.

The temperature within both channels could fluctuate extremely as both channels are shallow and

there is minimal shade. Fish passage along these channels would therefore be hampered.

Map 5: Current water movement into the wetland


14

Figure 11: North channel seen from wetland 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 12: North channel partially blocked 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 13: North channel connection to Narrung Inlet wetland 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 14: North channel blocked connection to Lake Alex. 08/03/06 (TB)


15

Figure 15: South channel leading up to pipe culvert 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 16: South channel pipe culvert under Alexandrina drive 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 17: South channel connection to Narrung wetland 08/03/06 (TB)

Figure 18: South channel connection to Lake Alexandrina 08/03/06 (TB)


16

(ii) Groundwater

The baseline survey installed 5 groundwater wells within Narrung wetland. These wells were

monitored 5 times during the survey period (22nd

January, 12th

March, 11th

June, 21st July and 2

nd

September 2004). The locations of the wells are presented in Table 5 and a map of the groundwater

flow direction in Appendix E. Two more wells were installed through Community monitoring those

labelled NAR01 and NAR02.

Table 5: Groundwater monitoring locations (SKM 2004)

Name Easting Northing

Elevation of

Bore Hole

casing

(m-AHD)

Ground

Elevation

(m-AHD)

Benchmark

(m-AHD)

NA1 334572.514 6068717.220 2.492 1.508

NA2 334787.601 6068562.547 2.226 1.238 1.288

NA3 334289.412 6069101.858 3.059 1.987 3.172

NA4 334097.782 6069409.431 2.123 1.075 1.136

NA5 334112.113 6069238.219 3.135 2.122 3.394

NAR01 334101.626 6068669.566 2.822 1.312

NAR02 334112.618 6068703.589 2.132 0.753

The groundwater seems to flow from the lake towards the floodplain, with additional groundwater

flow from the high ground (SKM 2004). The wetland depressions are therefore terminal points of

groundwater flow and therefore collection points for the salinity of the groundwater exacerbated by

evapoconcentration. The measured depths of the ground water, both during the baseline survey and

since, can be seen in Table 6.

Table 6: Groundwater monitoring locations (SKM 2004)

Name

Elevation of

Bore Hole

casing

(m-AHD)

Ground

Elevation

(m-AHD)

Benchmark

(m-AHD)

Depth to Water Table

(mbgl)

Reduced Standing Water

Level (RSWL mAHD)*

22/0

1/0

4

12/0

3/0

4

11/0

6/0

4

02/0

9/0

4

08/0

3/0

6

22/0

1/0

4

12/0

3/0

4

11/0

6/0

4

02/0

9/0

4

08/0

3/0

6

NA1 2.492 1.508 1.161 1.501 1.323 0.726 1.39 0.347 0.007 0.185 0.782 0.118

NA2 2.226 1.238 1.288 0.786 0.939 0.663 0.220 1.16 0.037 -0.012 0.16 0.603 0.078

NA3 3.059 1.987 3.172 1.498 1.668 1.642 1.397 1.61 0.489 0.319 0.345 0.59 0.377

NA4 2.123 1.075 1.136 0.662 0.754 0.687 0.432 0.7 0.413 0.321 0.388 0.643 0.375

NA5 3.135 2.122 3.394 1.587 1.776 1.792 1.491 1.63 0.535 0.346 0.33 0.631 0.492

NAR01 2.822 1.312 0.695 0.778 0.716 0.522 0.78 0.617 0.534 0.596 0.790

NAR02 2.132 0.753 0.141 0.236 1.149 -0.015 0.33 0.612 0.517 -0.396 0.768

* Level of ground water in relation to sea level

The groundwater salinity was found to be relatively high, see Table 7. The high salinity of the

groundwater and the shallow groundwater table, with a range between 0.14 and 1.59 mbgl, has

probably been contributing to the surface salinity of the complex through evapoconcentration (SKM

2004). The ground water levels were found to fluctuate with the seasonal climatic change, with the


17

depth to groundwater (mbgl) increasing towards March and then decreasing with the onset of winter

(SKM 2004) (see Appendix E).

Table 7: Groundwater salinity ms/cm

NAME 14/09/03 22/01/04 12/02/04 11/06/04 08/03/06

NA1 39.70 50.20 66.2

NA2 9.58 12.20 11.1

NA3 30.70 42.00 42.8

NA4 20.39 29.40 30.2

NA5 24.22 35.30 32.8

NAR0101 29 31

NAR0102 26 26.1 35.4

Surface water near pump shed

65.0

Surface water north channel near photopoint

3.69

SECTION 2.04 ECOLOGICAL FEATURES

(a) FLORA

There is not much remnant native vegetation remaining within the Narrung wetland (Woodward-

Clyde 2000). The baseline survey identified 17 native species; see Appendix F.

Within the main lagoon there were extensive areas of the Charophyte Nitella sp. Other submerged

aquatic species included widgeon grass/water tassel Ruppia polycarpa and Lepilaena sp. Although

dry, R. polycarpa was identified in the smaller lagoons (SKM 2004). Ruppia polycarpa is a high

salt tolerant species that often inhabits temporary water bodies (Nicol 2005). The channel

connecting the main lagoon to Lake Alexandrina had salt club rush Bolboschoenus caldwellii and

saltwater couch *Paspalum vaginatum (SKM 2004).

In the wetland area some native grasses were identified including Emu grass Distichlis

distichophylla interspersed among pasture grasses. In the lower lying land around the wetland there

were samphire areas containing black-seed samphire Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. pergranulata

and beaded samphire Sarcocornia quinqueflora. Other herbs found within the wetter areas of the

samphire included Sea heath Frankenia pauciflora var. gunnii, streaked arrow-grass Triglochin

striatum and widgeon grass/water tassel R. polycarpa (SKM 2004). Interspersed were also weeds

including common brass buttons *Cotula coronopifolia and pasture grasses. On the higher ground

were lignum Muehlenbeckia florulenta with a invasive grass understorey including saltwater couch

*P. vaginatum and kikuyu *Pennisetum clandestinum (SKM 2004).

Outside of the immediate wetland area to the east and south, small depressions with a permanent

connection to the lakes had different plant associations including a water ribbon Triglochin

procerum herbland which was invaded by Kikuyu *P. clandestinum. The wetland fringing the lakes

to the north had water milfoil Myriophyllum sp. and Azolla sp. and fringed by common spike-rush

Eleocharis acuta and salt club rush Bolboschoenus caldwellii sedgeland with a herb understorey.

These areas were still accessed by stock.

The four plant associations were surveyed by the baseline survey were:

Eleocharis acuta / Bolboschoenus caldwellii Closed Sedgeland

Myriophyllum caput-medusae Herbland over Azolla filiculoides

Ruppia polycarpa Herbland; and


18

Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland over Triglochin striatum and Ruppia

polycarpa

A detailed list of species found within the plant associations can be found in Appendix G Section

G.01. Vegetation collected and identified by community members, with professional assistance, is

also listed in the Appendix. During this collection some exotic weeds were identified including the

African boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum. Weed removal should include the removal of this weed as a

priority. For a description of the function of vegetation in wetlands refer to Your Wetland:

Supporting Information (Tucker, Dominelli et al. 2003). In the northern wetland fringing Lake

Alexandrina, the Myriophyllum caput-medusae herbland had coarse milfoil M. caput-medusae and

lake milfoil M. salsugineum, both species of conservation significance, see Appendix G Section

G.01. M. caput-medusae and Lilaeopsis polyantha, with a listing of rare regional conservation

significance, were in the Eleocharis acuta/Bolboschoenus caldwellii closed sedgeland also in the

northern wetland (SKM 2004).

(i) Implications for management

The River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004) recommends the revegetation around the

wetland lagoons with local natives now absent from the wetland. The suggested native vegetation

included swamp paper-bark Melaleuca halmaturorum smooth cutting grass/chaffy saw sedge

Gahnia filum. The baseline survey also recommends the fencing off of wetlands fringing Lake

Alexandrina, to avoid further grazing damage to the species of conservation significance and to be

able to address the threat of invasive weeds (SKM 2004). The control of kikuyu * P. clandestinum

is required throughout the wetland area including herbland and lignum shrublands (SKM 2004).

With the introduction of hydrological management the water salinity within the wetland will reduce,

through flushing of the system during inundation. Maintaining the wetland at or above 5000 μS/cm

will ensure that the current submerged aquatic species Nitella sp. Ruppia polycarpa and Lepilaena

sp. can survive (Nicol 2006).

(b) FAUNA

The River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004) conducted a number of surveys on fauna

in the wetland environment. These surveys are described below.

(i) Birds

The bird assessment of the baseline survey was located at three sites with complex shorelines (SKM

2004), the habitat included herb and samphire areas as well as wet and dry mud. Thirteen species of

waterbird were observed in the wetland with 467 individuals in total. Twelve of these species were

EPBC (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999) listed as migratory

species (SKM 2004). Table 24 in Appendix G Section G.02(a) contains a list of the birds observed

at the Narrung wetland.

The three most abundant birds observed were the masked lapwing with 91 individuals, the Caspian

tern with 80 individuals and the crested tern with 86 individuals only observed in the spring

monitoring period (SKM 2004). The overall abundance and diversity at each site was low, but seen

as a whole and compared to other sites of the same survey Narrung wetland was above the mean.

Foraging activity was low, with only 4 species observed foraging in spring and 1 in summer (SKM

2004).

The limited habitat conditions in the surrounding floodplain were considered to have influenced the

diversity and abundance of bird populations in Narrung wetland. The habitat availability identified

by the baseline survey (SKM 2004) are listed in Table 8. The revegetation of the floodplain

surrounding the wetland should contribute to the development of more diverse habitats than

presently available. However, the maintenance of the open water and wet mud areas is

recommended by the baseline survey to maintain the bird diversity and abundance (SKM 2004).


19

The development of a more diverse habitat surrounding the Narrung wetland should consequently

benefit the birds found in the surrounding Ramsar area.

Table 8: Habitat features identified in Narrung wetland table adapted from (SKM 2004).

Habitat features Spring Summer

Site 1 Site 2 Site 3 Site 1 Site 2 Site 3

Shoreline Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex Complex

Fringing vegetation

Continuous low cover






Reeds Absent Absent Absent Absent Occasional Absent

Sedges Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent

Herbs Extensive Extensive Extensive Extensive Extensive Extensive

Wet mud Occasional Occasional Absent Absent Extensive Extensive

Dry mud Occasional Occasional Extensive Extensive Extensive Extensive

Hollow bearing trees

Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent

Perching trees Occasional Absent Occasional Occasional Absent Absent

Water’s edge In/above veg

1–10 m from veg

In/above veg

NA 10 – 100 m from veg

10 – 100 m from veg

Fringing River Red Gums

Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent Absent

Water depth (m) 0.1 0.1 0.1 0 0.1 0.05

Water level Stable Stable Stable NA Falling Falling

A survey of bird species found in the area of the Lower Lakes from the period of January 2003 and

February 2004 was preformed (Gosbell 2004). This survey was conducted at 23 sites over a period

of twelve months; Table 25 in Appendix G Section G.02(a) contains a list of the water birds seen as

part of this survey. The findings of the survey were that waterfowl made up 94% of all observations

with 45 species, compared to 17 species of waders. It is anticipated that some of these species

would take advantage of the increased habitat availability at a restored Narrung wetland. Of the 17

waders, 8 were migratory. The scarcity of waders may indicate a lack of suitable habitat or habitat

quality. Further, a steady decline in waterbirds over the past 30-40 years may be due to a loss of

habitat and habitat diversity (Gosbell 2004).

Narrung wetland is listed by Seaman (2003) as a potential habitat for:

The painted snipe Rostratula benghalensis (IUCN: Vulnerable A1b, NPW Act: Vulnerable,

CAMBA),

Australasian bittern Ibotaurus poiciloptilus (IUCN: Vulnerable C2a, NPW Act:

Vulnerable),

Lewin‟s rail Rallus pectoralis (IUCN: Near Threatened c, NPW Act: Vulnerable),

Orange bellied parrot Neophema chrysogaster (IUCN: Critically Endangered C2b, NPW

Act: Endangered),

Migratory wadders (CAMBA and JAMBA listed) including:

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata,

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea,

Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis,


20

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia and

Waterbirds listed in schedules 8 and 9 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972

Freckled duck Stictonetta naevosa

Musk duck Biziura lobata

Baillon‟s crake Porzana pusilla

Golden headed cisticola Cistiola exillis

Great-crested grebe Podiceps cristatus

The CAMBA (China Australia Migratory Birds Agreement) and JAMBA (Japan Australia

Migratory Birds Agreement) listed species were taken from (1986b; 1986a). CAMBA and JAMBA

are intergovernmental agreements for the protection of migratory birds and their habitats. Further, a

duck hunter has reportedly, seen a painted snipe Rostratula benghalensis (CAMBA listed & listed

as vulnerable in the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972) in samphire area close to Narrung,

however this sighting was not been confirmed by D. Dadd (2005). The following list of birds has

been observed at Narrung wetland by David Dadd (Dadd 2006);

Swan Cygnus spp. (black swan Cygnus atratus)

Australian shelduck Tadorna tadornoides (which need tree hollows for breeding and

therefore wander)

Black duck Anas superciliosa

Grey teal Anas gracilis

Chestnut teal Anas castanea – seen mainly in winter, however not as many as the grey teal

Australasian shoveler Anas rhynchotis

Pink-eared duck Malacorhynchus membranaceus

Freckled duck Stictonetta naevosa (also seen at nearby Poltalloch wetland in numbers of

300 plus)

Crested Tern Sterna bergii

Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus (seasonal)

Great egret Ardea alba

White faced heron Egretta (Ardea) novaehollandiae

Wading birds, which have been observed at Narrung wetland by David Dadd, include:

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata (CAMBA/JAMBA listed)

Red-Necked stint Calidris ruficollis (CAMBA/JAMBA listed)

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis (CAMBA listed)

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia (CAMBA/ JAMBA listed). (not seen at Narrung but

seen at Poltalloch wetland close by and could therefore use Narrung wetland)

Red capped plover Charadrius ruficapillus (which also nest at Narrung wetland)

Masked lapwing Vanellus miles.

D. Dadd (2006) observed the sharp tailed sandpiper, a migratory wader, foraging in the samphire

areas between the wetland and Lake Alexandrina. This foraging activity was observed shortly after


21

the arrival of the species in September. D. Dadd assumes the choice of foraging at this site at this

time of the year could be due to the high water levels of the Coorong.

There were a number of birds identified during a community survey assisted by D. Dadd, foraging

at the wetland, see in Table 9. As there was a limited amount of macroinvertebrates identified at the

wetland, the birds were assumed to be foraging on the submerged aquatic plants and algae (Frears

2006).

Table 9: Birds identified during community survey

No. Species Scientific Name Note

16 Black Swan Cygnus atratus

30 Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides membranaceus Flying

2 Swamp Harrier Circus approximans Flying

1 Masked Lapwing Vanellus miles

3 Red-capped Plover Charadrius ruficapillus Dependent young (2)

15 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata

16 Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

40 Banded Stilt Cladorhynchus leucocephalus

14 Silver Gull Larus novaehollandiae

40 Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus

1 Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

2 Crested Tern Sterna bergii

(ii) Frogs

No frog species were recorded at Narrung during the survey. The lack of frogs is presumably due to

the shallow and saline nature of the wetland. The lack of suitable frog habitat would have a large

role in the lack of frogs in the wetland (SKM 2004).

(iii) Fish

The baseline survey did not include a fish survey for Narrung wetland due to the lack of water

during the survey. As no fish were collected within the wetland, the Lower Lakes Fish Inventory

(Wedderburn and Hammer 2003), provides the best available data as to the fish that may potentially

migrate into the wetland complex. Within the Lower Lakes Fish Inventory (Wedderburn and

Hammer 2003) the fish species and relative abundance presented in Table 10 and Table 11 were

recorded for Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert on either side of the Narrung Narrows (tables were

adapted from (Wedderburn and Hammer 2003)) which is close to the Narrung wetland. The

sampling points of the Lower Lakes Fish Inventory for Narrung wetland were located (coordinates

in GDA 94 zone 54):

R 24 (Lake) - Next to the Narrung Jetty (335348 E 6068542 N)

R 26 (Wetland) - In the Narrung narrows wetland close to where a culvert to Narrung

wetland will be located (334874 E 6068214 N)

S 1 (Swamp) - On the east side of the Narrung Narrows in Lake Alexandrina (336000 E

6069000 N)

Wedderburn and Hammer (2003) recommend the protection and restoration of sheltered fish habitat

around the lake. However, flow control structures can have an impact on the movement of fish in

and out of wetland environments, due to changes in water quality and/or water flow (velocities,


22

turbulence) (see Your Wetland: Supporting Information (Tucker, Dominelli et al. 2003)). This will

be taken into account when considering flow management and flow control structure design.

Table 10: Native fish

Abundance Status

Common Name Scientific Name

R 2

4

17/0

2/0

3

R 2

6

18/0

2/0

3

S 1

17/0

9/0

1

Lak

e

Alb

ert

SA Australia

Bony herring Nematalosa erebi 3 1 30

Common galaxias Galaxias maculatus 5 72 1 579

Dwarf flathead gudgeon

Philypnodon sp. 2 2 R (C)

Flathead gudgeon Philypnodon grandiceps

17 48 90

Flyspecked hardyhead

Craterocephalus stercusmuscarum fulvus

2 3

Golden perch Macquaria ambigua 1 1

Lagoon goby Tasmanogobius lasti 91 239

Smallmouthed hardyhead

Atherinosoma microstoma

8 17 189

Western blue spot goby

Pseudogobius olorum 18 251

Number of Species 5 8 1

C = provisional State conservation concern under the draft Threatened Species Schedule NPWSA (National Parks and

Wildlife Council and Department for Environment and Heritage 2003)

Table 11: Introduced fish

Abundance Status

Common Name Scientific Name

R 2

4

17/0

2/0

3

R 2

6

18/0

2/0

3

S 1

17/0

9/0

1

Lak

e

Alb

ert

SA Australia

Gambusia Gambusia holbrooki 51 1 71

Goldfish Carassius auratus 4 4

Redfin Perca fluviatilis 4 128

Number of Species 0 3 1

(iv) Macroinvertebrates

The River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004) did not monitor macroinvertebrates at

Narrung wetland.

However, the local community monitored macroinvertebrates on 2 separate occasions using

waterwatch techniques over a 5-month period (from spring 2003 to late summer 2005). The overall

abundance of macroinvertebrates collected at the late summer monitoring session was significantly

less than in the early spring session. The reducing water levels and high salinities have significantly

reduced the diversity of species. Only adult forms of species were found (Frears 2006). For a

description of the function of macroinvertebrates in wetlands refer to Your Wetland: Supporting

Information (Tucker, Dominelli et al. 2003).


23

Table 12: Community collected macroinvertebrates (table provided by A. Frears (2006))

Common Name Sensitivity

Rating

14/9/03

(early spring)

12/2/04

(late Summer)

Freshwater snail 6

Water flea 6

Mosquito larvae 5

Predacious diving beetle (adult) 5

Scavenger beetle larvae 5

Scavenger beetle adult 5

Scud/side swimmer 5

Whirligig beetle larvae 5

Whirligig beetle adult 5

Seed shrimp 4

Water boatman 4

Non-biting midge larvae 3

(v) Implications for management

The SKM (2004) bird survey found the abundance and diversity of birds at Narrung to be above the

mean of all wetlands included in the survey. The birds were seen on the open water and wet mud.

Their recommendations aimed at increasing waterbird diversity and numbers within the wetland

with the development of more diverse habitat. However, it was seen as important to maintain the

open water and mud areas for the birds presently using the wetland. The lack of frogs was probably

due to the saline nature of the wetland and the lack of suitable habitat. No fish were found in the

wetland, however, with the construction of a culvert connecting the wetland with Lake Albert a

large potential exists for the migration of fish into the wetland. This would need to be monitored

and the water quality and volume balanced between the needs of the fish and the waterbirds. No

information exists on the macroinvertebrates of the wetland. Therefore, it is difficult to assess the

possible impacts on the macroinvertebrate population following a reduction in surface water salinity

within the wetland. This may increase the food source for fish and water birds. The future

monitoring and assessment will therefore need to assess the implications of the freshening of the

wetland on not only vegetation and water quality but also on the species diversity and abundance of

the birds using the wetland.

Therefore, to manage the wetland with an aim of increasing bird habitat availability, the diversity of

habitat must be increased and the existing habitat of open water and mud maintained. With the

establishment of more diverse and healthy aquatic habitats, the abundance of frogs within Narrung

wetland itself should potentially also increase. The improvement in connection between the wetland

and the lakes should provide fish habitat. The movement of fish in and out of the wetland should

play a role in contributing to their reproduction in the lakes as well as serving as an additional food

source for water birds.


24

Chapter 3. SOCIAL, ECONOMIC AND CULTURAL VALUES

The wetland is of importance to the local residents and the traditional owners the Ngarrindjeri

nation.

The wetland is inherently of importance to the Ngarrindjeri as is the case for all wetlands along

the River Murray. Some of the cultural significant aspects include through past uses such as

food gathering, gathering the reed Cyperus gymnocaulos for basket weaving. This important

tradition is still practiced and the presence of Cyperus gymnocaulos is an important cultural

resource. Other cultural reasons for wetland rehabilitation include the importance of wetlands as

part of its role in the environment such as the complex food web including fish nurseries and

bird habitat. Narrung wetland is a significant area for the Ngarrindjeri community and they are

very supportive of its restoration, not only for the ecological benefits but also for cultural

values.

For the residents of Narrung the wetland is a major feature of the town landscape as it spans the

length of the town. The wetlands value is both through its aesthetics and ecological importance.

The local residents take pride in the diversity and abundance of waterbirds and waders, which

use Narrung wetland. The structural improvement of the wetland flow structures, the potential

improvement for native fish species and the revegetation considered as a part of the restoration

works, receiving unanimous approval at a community meeting organised by the town progress

association and held at the town hall. Due to the wetlands importance to the town and its highly

visible nature, interest in participation in monitoring, management, and revegetation of the

wetland environment was high with many committing to specific roles of the wetland

management.

Further values of Narrung wetland in a broader context include its role in regional tourism. The

Narrung Narrows attracts a number of tourists who camp adjacent to the ferry crossing at the

edge of Narrung town. The rehabilitation of the wetland will therefore contribute to the increase

in regional tourism value.


25

Chapter 4. LAND TENURE, JURISDICTION AND MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS

SECTION 4.01 LAND TENURE

There are multiple properties that encompass Narrung wetland and the surrounding land. The

wetland lagoons themselves are on four of these properties, three in private ownership, freehold (fee

simple entirety), and one unallotted crown land in the ownership of the Minister for Environment

and Heritage. Some of the surrounding properties are residential, these encompassing the Narrung

town. A large part of the land to the east of the wetland is in the ownership of Point McLeay

Community Council Inc. with the shoreline owned by the Coorong District Council and the

Minister for Environment and Heritage. The property boundaries and the key ownership details can

be seen in Map 6.

Map 6: Cadastral boundaries covering Narrung wetland and surrounds.

SECTION 4.02 LAND AND WATER USE

The main land use in the surrounding area is cattle grazing. In the past Narrung wetland was open to

stock access. Most of the wetland is now fenced off to exclude all stock. See Map 1 for fence

locations. However, evidence of stock grazing impact was evident for both the baseline survey

(SKM 2004) and the report complied by Woodward-Clyde (2000), which had the aim of identifying

potential wetland rehabilitation sites. Therefore the River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM

2004) recommends the exclusion of stock from sensitive areas to promote the value and diversity of

natural habitats this recommendation is echoed in the report by Woodward-Clyde (2000). The

social, economic and environmental benefits of stock exclusion from sensitive areas, identified by

Woodward-Clyde (2000) are;


26

Improved wetland water quality

Increased aquatic invertebrate diversity and abundance

Promotion of wading bird habitat

Promotion of waterbird habitat

The restoration of areas culturally significant to the Ngarrindjeri

Of significance currently is the lack of fencing around the northern wetland bordering Lake

Alexandrina. This wetland has three plants of conservation significance, identified by the baseline

survey; see Section 2.04(a).

SECTION 4.03 JURISDICTION AND MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY

The Narrung community members with support from the Coorong District LAP and the SA MDB

NRM Board will be responsible for the management of the wetland in consultation with the

principal landholder.

Contact persons for Narrung wetland management will be Coorong District LAP Officers, Wetland

Management Planning Officer or SA MDB NRM BOARD Wetland Project Officer, see Table 13

for contact details. Access to the wetland will need to be arranged through consultation with the

relevant landowner.

Table 13: Narrung wetland responsible positions contact details

Position Present

Officers

Organisation Mailing Address Phone

number

Coorong District LAP Project Officer

Graham Gates

Coorong District LAP PO Box 1021 Tintinara SA 5266 (08) 8757 2100

Lower Lakes Project Officer

Jem Tesoriero

Coorong District LAP & Goolwa to Wellington LAP

PO Box 2056 Murray Bridge

SA 5253 (08) 8532 5262 2100

Wetland Management Planning Officer

Tumi Bjornsson

Lower LAPS Mt. Lofty Ranges Catchment Centre Upper Level, Cnr Mann and Walker St's

Mount Barker

SA 5251 (08) 8391 7515

Wetland Project Officer, Lower Murray

Adrienne Frears

SA MDB NRM BOARD

PO Box 2056 Murray Bridge

SA 5253 (08) 8532 6753


27

Chapter 5. THREATS AND POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS TO NARRUNG WETLAND

There are a number of existing and potential threats to Narrung wetland, some of which have

become apparent in the description of the wetland and available data in the chapters above. The

identification of these threats is essential for appropriate adaptive management of the wetland. Their

early recognition allows for an appropriate monitoring strategy for early identification of adverse

impacts of management and therefore rapid response through altered management.

The major current threat to the wetland is the infrequent inundation and associated groundwater

salinity intrusion and the loss of biodiversity such as the surrounding vegetation and therefore

habitat. The lack of exchange compounds the impact of saline groundwater intrusion through

evapoconcentration leading to salinisation of the wetland soil with saltpans evident. This threat, a

lack of water exchange, is being addressed by this management plan. The past clearing of the

wetland area has degraded native habitat leaving few native flora and fauna species. The

disconnection from the Lake Albert also limits the use of the wetland by native fish. However, the

altered management of a wetland will in itself bring with it potential threats that need to be

identified, these and other threats identified so far have been listed in Table 14.

One threat recently identified in the Lower Lakes area is the invasive weed sharp rush Juncus

acutus Figure 19 and Figure 20. It should be included in future weed removal strategies as part of

the wetland surrounding area restoration work. Other weeds of potential concern include the

African boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum and saltwater couch Paspalum vaginatum.

Figure 19: Juncus acutus (JT) Figure 20: Juncus acutus detail (JT)


28

Table 14: Existing and prospective threats to Narrung wetland

THREATS SYMPTOM CAUSE IMPACT CATEGORY EXTENT (IF

KNOWN)

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

AB

IOT

IC

Exi

stin

g

Altered hydrology Dry wetland

Saline ground water intrusion

Loss of vegetation/habitat

Causeway road (Alexandrina Drive)

Drop in Lake Level/ Barrage Operation

Dieback of native vegetation (Aquatic and riparian)

Loss of habitat variability for fauna (birds, fish, frogs, turtles & macroinvertebrates)

Saltpans on dry lagoon beds

Hypersaline wetland when inundated

Regional & Local Local management response

Wetland proper and fringing low lying areas

Addressed in this management plan

Introduce “natural” water regime allowing the wetland not only to fill but to flush out into the adjacent lakes

Clearing/maintenance of flow channels between wetland and lakes

Installation of culvert/flow control structures through causeway

Removal of part of causeway between main lagoon and south east lagoon

Exi

stin

g

Salinisation of the wetland

Increasing EC of wetland water body

Increasing salinity in wetland base/soil

Saline water in wetland

Only salt tolerant species present

Salt pan

Saline wetland base/soil

Lack of exchange with lakes

Saline seepage from groundwater (particularly in the east lagoon)

Evapoconcentration

No culvert therefore no flushing

Wetland maintained at a dry phase for to long leading to a loss of freshwater lens

Hydraulic pressure from lake Alexandrina (pushes saline groundwater toward southern end of wetland)

Degradation of wetland water quality (hypersaline, long term degradation of wetland)

Degradation of wetland environment

Reduced biodiversity

Degradation of habitat quality for native fish

Degradation of bird habitat (increased fish and macroinivertebrates may improve bird habitat for water birds)

Only salt tolerant species present

Wetland turned into a hypersaline swamp

Local Wetland proper and fringing low lying areas

Flushing through installation of a culvert under road connecting the wetland with Lake Albert

Adaptive management to maintain wader habitat, restore vegetation and improve fish, frog and water bird habitat

Not connect the east lagoon or inundate wetland for extended period of time to develop freshwater lens under wetland

Do not allow wetland to remain dry more than 6 months

BIO

TIC

Exi

stin

g

Loss of native riparian vegetation

Few native vegetation species in the area

No large native trees in the area

Invasive species present

Impact on native fauna species diversity and abundance

Clearing

Grazing

Lack of water (inundation)

Weed infestation

Mismanagement of wetland hydrology

Loss of habitat/breeding hollows (birds)

Loss of snags in water body

Loss of windbreak

Local Surrounding area. Extensive. Revegetation option for riparian area.

Revegetate with local native species

Freshen wetland

Exi

stin

g

Reduction in biodiversity Low species diversity following clearing (State Library of South Australia)

Loss of natural variability of inundation

Loss of native species (fish, riparian and aquatic vegetation)

Grazing – reduction of biodiversity

Grazing – introduction of weeds (introduction of seed, aiding invasion)

Mismanagement of wetland hydrology

Mismanagement of wetland environment

Extensive degradation of wetland ecosystem (Domino effect on food chain)

Local and Regional Wetland and wetland influenced surrounding area

Rehabilitate wetland/freshen/revegetate

Addressed in this management plan and future revegetation plan

Exi

stin

g Weeds (e.g. kikuyu) Their presence Degradation of native

vegetation Exotic species

Competition with native vegetation

Loss of habitat (food source?)

Local Floodplain Active removal – poisoning


29

THREATS SYMPTOM CAUSE IMPACT CATEGORY EXTENT (IF

KNOWN)

POTENTIAL SOLUTION

Exi

stin

g

Lack of habitat (birds) Less bird species observed during survey than potentially could use wetland

Degradation of wetland ecosystem

Lack of fish and macroinvertebrates as food source

Lack of floodplain vegetation (habitat)

Loss of bird habitat Local and Regional Wetland and wetland surrounding area

Restore wetland ecology/habitat availability

Restore hydrology/Freshen wetland

Revegetate

Increase habitat availability

Exi

stin

g Lack of frogs Lack of frogs Possibly due to lack of

suitable habitat

Degradation of wetland ecosystem

Loss/reduction of frogs in ecosystem Local Wetland and wetland surrounding area



Revegetate

Increase habitat availability

Exi

stin

g

Lack of native fish habitat

No fish in wetland

Blockage of flow channels into wetland

No connection to Lake Albert

Saline wetland

Channel to Lake Alexandrina not appropriate for fish migration

Reduction in available breeding areas (nurseries)

Local and Regional Wetland and lake fringe



Revegetate (provide shade and snags)

Allow fish passage between wetland and lake

Pote

nti

al

Invasive fish species (carp, gambusia, goldfish and redfin)

Turbid wetlands Well known environmental problem in region (large pest population)

Rapid breeding cycles (carp ~2/year), live bearing (gambusia), unpalatable eggs (redfin)

Competition for habitat. (domination of available habitat)

Predation/aggressive interaction on/with small and young native fish (redfin/gambusia)

Damage to aquatic vegetation

Decrease in water quality (Turbidity increase)

Predation on native fish (redfin)

Regional and local (Managed locally)

Wetland water body (when wet)

If carp exclusion trials are successful in other wetlands it could be considered for Narrung

Monitor abundance of invasive species with comparative monitoring of abundance of native species

Removal of carp following drawdown

Instillation of carp (large fish) screens

Pote

nti

al

Loss/reduction of wading birds

Less birds observed

Change in habitat suitability - Depth to mud/ macroinvertebrates changed - Change in macroinvertebrate population composition

Loss of wading bird habitat

Loss of value of wetland in respect to wading bird population


Wetland/regional (bird habitat)

Adaptive management (monitor bird population and habitat use

If the reduction in bird numbers is due to a loss in mudflats, then change the hydrology regime appropriately

If the reduction in bird numbers is due to a change in the macroinvertebrate community, consider reversing wetland water freshening.

Pote

nti

al

Spread of reeds into/throughout wetland

Loss of open water

Monoculture of reeds

Loss of significant habitat

Perfect growing environment (shallow fresh wetland)

Earthworks (fresh soil)

Loss of open water habitat (for water birds, waders, fish etc.)

Loss of mudflats (wet & dry mud)

Complete change in wetland type and habitat offered to native fauna

Local Wetland water body Dry wetland before reeds establish (i.e. at the end of every year)

Allow salinity to increase during drying event to prevent their spread

Pote

nti

al

Loss of plant species considered to be of conservation significance currently found in wetland area adjacent to lake Alexandrina

Loss of plant species

Grazing impact Severe impact on habitat of the species

Loss of plant species


Wetland fringing Lake Alexandrina (outside of Narrung wetland proper)

Consider fencing of this wetland area from grazing (would need landholder agreement/ cooperation)


30

Chapter 6. MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES

The main management objective is the rehabilitation of the ecology of Narrung wetland and

therefore the restoration of the cultural and aesthetic values of the wetland to the local community

and the Ngarrindjeri nation. Based on the objectives presented in Section 1.02(c) and the threats to

the wetland discussed in Chapter 5, more detailed ecology based management objectives can now

be developed. The objectives, including solutions, actions needed, and priorities are detailed in

Table 15.

Adaptive management will drive the actions undertaken to achieve the objectives. Due to the

complexity of the habitat requirements of waders, water birds, native fish, macroinvertebrates and

frogs and identified potential threats to the wetland (see Chapter 5) the management and therefore

detailed objectives will need to be flexible. A minor review of the objectives and the wetland

management plan is recommended at the end of each year, community groups can achieve this by

reviewing their monitored data. A major review should follow after 5 years.


31

Table 15: Management objectives for Narrung wetland.

MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES SOLUTIONS ACTIONS (Management (M) or

Engineering or structural (ES))

QUANTIFIABLE

/MEASURE OF ACHIEVEMENT

MONITOR

(TIMING)*

LEGISLATION PRIORITY

VE

GE

TA

TIO

N

Nati

ve Regeneration of riparian

vegetation Manage water regime to restore vegetation (woodland, sedgeland and herbland plant communities)

Establish native re-vegetation projects

Establish a water regime which includes flushing and draw down (ES)

Actively revegetate using locally collected seed

Re-establishment and survival of missing species (e.g. Melaleuca halmaturorum and Gahnia filum) Numbers based on expert recommendation

Photo point (Q)

Vegetation survey (Y)

WAP (water license) High

Nati

ve

Regeneration/maintain wetland aquatic species (maintain water plant communities)

Management of inundation/drying periods to maintain a salinity level within the wetland not below 5000 EC, as this may detrimentally impact on Ruppia polycarpa growing in the wetland

Manage water regime to trigger/induce aquatic and riparian vegetation regeneration

Open flow control gates (ES)

Control hydraulic regime adaptively (see Section 7.02)

Slow drying of wetland

Monitor water levels and salinity and respond adaptively to maintain shallow water and mud flats and EC of around 5000

Diversity of aquatic species, continued presence of Ruppia polycarpa, Lepilaena sp. and Nitella sp.

Establishment of fringing reeds

Maintain clear wetland (Turbidity

NTU 70 100% of time)

Photo point (Q)


Monitor water quality (M)

WAP (water license) Medium

Inva

sive

Removal of weeds from wetland area

Establish weed removal projects in the wetland area (boxthorn, artichoke thistle etc.)

Weed control as per revegetation plan

Reduction of weeds (as per revegetation plan)


N/A High

Nati

ve

Prevent spread of reeds etc. throughout wetland (maintain open water)

Allow wetland to increase in salt concentration as it dries

Close culvert at the end of late summer/Autumn to allow wetland to dry out

Actively remove if necessary

Adaptive management (increase salinity for a season if necessary)

Reeds establish only on wetland fringe

Photo point (Q)



WAP (water license) Medium

FIS

H

Nati

ve

Ease movement of fish between wetland and Lake Albert

Establish open connection through culvert between the wetland and Lake Albert

Connect Main and south east lagoon

Make sure culvert is as fish friendly as possible

Construct culvert under Alexandrina Drive (ES) Culvert to have rough base to ease fish passage

Open up causeway between main and south east lagoons (ES)

Visible migration during open connection

Monitor in wetland

Fish survey (Y) WAP (water license) Development Act Agreement by landowner Occupation of crown lands (in process)

Medium

Nati

ve

Restore native fish habitat

Reconnect wetland and Lake Albert

Improved fish habitat through improved and more diverse ecological niches, such as macrophytes (emergent and submerged), snags (therefore need riparian vegetation) and open water. As well as more food sources, biofilms etc. This would lead to an

increased diversity and abundance of small native fish, which are prayed upon by larger native fish. Both are in turn prayed upon by waterbirds who also obtain a more diverse habitat though the development of aquatic and riparian vegetation

Construct culvert under Alexandrina Drive (ES)


Restore riparian vegetation

Manage culvert to allow both a slowly fluctuating water level and occasional open connection for fish passage

Manage second culvert (north channel) to allow fish passage out of the wetland prior to drying

Presence of 3 or more native fish species found outside of wetland (see Table 10)


High

Nati

ve

Maximise fish passage into and out of the wetland

Construct the culvert in a fish friendly fashion

Use up to date fish friendly culvert construction

Monitored movement of fish in and out of the wetlnad


High

Inva

sive

Minimise impact of carp Install carp grills at culvert Part of culvert construction No large carp in wetland Fish survey (Y) Medium


32

MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES SOLUTIONS ACTIONS (Management (M) or

Engineering or structural (ES))

QUANTIFIABLE

/MEASURE OF ACHIEVEMENT

MONITOR

(TIMING)*

LEGISLATION PRIORITY

FR

OG

S

Nati

ve

Restore native frog habitat

Manage water regime to restore habitat values for frogs and therefore enhance their breeding.

Improved frog habitat through improved and more diverse ecological niches (habitat)

Decrease surface water salinity

Construct culvert under Alexandrina Drive (ES)


Control refilling speed to optimize for aquatic vegetation germination and growth

Restore riparian vegetation (revegetate)

Presence of native frog species in wetland

Frog survey (Q) Low

BIR

DS

Nati

ve/M

igra

tory

Maintained/Improved habitat for water birds (waterfowl, waders and shorebirds)

Manage water regime to restore habitat values for water birds and therefore enhance their breeding (where appropriate) (All habitat including open water, shallow water, wet and dry mud)

Manage water regime to restore habitat values for migratory bird species e.g. migratory waders

Revegetate surrounding area with native vegetation

Restoration of wetland habitat and conditions for native fish species, migratory water birds, native water birds and fringing species, and aquatic and riparian plant species. (See vegetation objectives & Section 7.02)

Maintain hydrology regime/refresh water

Revegetate as per revegetation plan (to be developed)

Increase in bird abundance and diversity using wetland (more water birds, no reduction in waders)

Increase in habitat diversity (fringing vegetation)

Bird survey (M)


Observation

High

MA

NA

GE

ME

NT

GW

Minimise groundwater impact on wetland

Keep wetland regularly inundated

Allow increased exchange between wetland and Lake Albert to freshen wetland

Inundate wetland for an extended time period

Establish a hydrological regime based on best knowledge of past wetland hydrology

Monitor effect of restored hydrology and adapt management accordingly

Monitor wetland salinity (Significant reduction in the first year with a steady improvement over the following years. Not below 5000 EC as this may detrimentally impact on Ruppia polycarpa growing in the wetland)


High

WQ

Reduce/manage wetland salinity

Manage water regime to flush wetland

Allow slow drying of wetland with development of wet and dry mud.

Slow increase in water salinity acceptable as per expected for Evapoconcentration of dissolved salts

Keep structure open for a month to allow for water exchange between lake and wetland

Close structure to reintroduce the minimal connection between the wetland and lakes allowing the slow drying of the wetland (existing hydrology regime)

Rapid initial decrease in salinity

Ongoing long term decrease of water salinity


High

WQ

Turbidity Maintain aquatic and restore riparian vegetation

Manage water regime to minimise turbidity of wetland water

Revegetate riparian vegetation

Maintain periodic/annual wetland dry phase

Visibly clear water

Turbidity of wetland water below 70 NTU for majority of time (100%)


Observation

Medium

Str

uct

ura

l Improve connectivity of wetland with Lake Albert

Restore flow paths into wetland Construct culvert under Alexandrina Drive (ES)


Culvert

Open causeway

Photo point (Q)

Observation

WAP (water license) Development Act Agreement by landowner Occupation of crown lands (in process)

High/paramount to restoration

Str

uct

ura

l

Control stock in wetland area

Fence of stock for entire wetland area including wetland fringing Lake Alexandrina

Fence of area (ES) Fence around lake Alexandrina fringing wetland

Observation High

* see Chapter 8; WAP, water allocation plan; GW, Ground Water; WQ, Water Quality; W, Weekly; M, Monthly; Y, Yearly


33

Chapter 7. IMPLEMENTATION OF PLAN

The essential restoration of Narrung wetland involves the freshening of the wetland water by

managing the water flow into the wetland. This will be accomplished in two stages. The restoration

was split into two stages to ensure the first stage is successfully completed before further

investment in resources and funding is made, and to allow adequate time to accomplish the first

stage without being delayed by the work of organising stage two.

Stage one involves the reconnection of the main and south east lagoons to each other and then to

Lake Albert. This involves the removal of the causeway between the two lagoons or in the least

broken through, followed by the construction of a culvert with stop logs (flow control) under

Alexandrina drive from the south east lagoon to Lake Albert. A second culvert with stop logs (flow

control) is to be constructed across the North Channel between the main lagoon and Lake

Alexandrina to allow better water level manipulation during hydrology management. The spill form

the removal of the causeway can be used to block the redundant South Channel between the main

lagoon and Lake Albert. The location of the on ground work including culverts and causeways can

be seen in Map 7. This connection follows in part the recommendations made by Woodward-Clyde

(2000), which can be seen in Map 3. The inclusion of the east lagoon as recommended by

Woodward-Clyde (2000) was deemed to have a risk of increasing saline groundwater intrusion.

This increased risk compared with the potential value of the 5 ha wetland area in an approximately

34 ha wetland was deemed to be inappropriate, particularly considering the added expense of on

groundwork, the return on investment, and the potential necessity to re-separate this lagoon should

the groundwater salinity have an adverse impact on the larger restored wetland.

Map 7: On ground work at Narrung wetland


34

Map 8 shows the current and the anticipated flow direction of water following on-ground works.

This map should provide some understanding of the anticipated flow following management within

Narrung wetland and the potential for freshening of the wetland.

Map 8: Expected water movement within Narrung wetland

As discussed in Section 1.02(d), stock has been excluded from the main lagoon and south east

lagoon. This will protect both future revegetation efforts and the wetlands from hoof and grazing

damage.

Stage two involves the protection of the Narrung inlet wetland. This would involve fencing off of

this wetland and adjacent vegetation, which includes three conservation significant species

identified by the baseline survey, see Section 2.04(a)(i). The location of the existing stock fence and

the approximate location of a fence around Narrung inlet wetland are shown in Map 9. A short

fence between the two wetland fences would separate the samphire and east lagoon from the rest of

the property allowing added options for control of grazing. Excluding grazing from the samphire

area during early spring would provide a less disturbed foraging area for the sharp-tailed sandpiper

(Dadd 2006).


35

Map 9: Wetland Fences (current and future)

SECTION 7.01 ON GROUND ACTION AND TIMETABLE

Table 16 provides a timetable and prioritisation for the on ground works in Narrung wetland. The

table does not address monitoring which is discussed in Chapter 8. A log of all activities should be

maintained. This log would assist in the review process of the wetland management plan discussed

in Chapter 9.


36

Table 16: Implementation plan for Narrung wetland land based activities.

ACTIVITY PRIORITY RESOURCES TIMETABLE RESPONSIBILITY

PR

IOR

TO

WE

TL

AN

D I

NU

ND

AT

ION

Install permanent photo points High 2 persons 1 hrs

Materials and tools (available)

Completed SAMDBNRMB/LAP (Adrienne Frears, Tumi Bjornsson, Jem Tesoriero)

Reconnect main and south east lagoons (use some of the spill to block southern flow channel, possibly leave centre of causeway standing as an island for waterbirds.

High Funding Winter 2006 Council

Construction of culverts (with carp screens) High Funding

Materials and tools (available)

Winter 2006 Council

Clear flow path between Lake Alexandrina and the main lagoon

Medium Funding As required LAP/Community group/Council

Install gauge board in lagoons Medium Gauge board

2 person/ ~1hrs

Completed SAMDBNRMB/LAP (Adrienne Frears, Tumi Bjornsson, Jem Tesoriero)

Install piezometers (2 or more) (to assess whether a freshwater lens develops below the wetland following freshening of the wetland)

Low Funding

Materials and tools

Winter 2006 SAMDBNRMB/LAP (Adrienne Frears, Tumi Bjornsson, Jem Tesoriero)

Block southern flow channel between Lake Albert and the wetland

High Spill from causeway Winter 2006 Council

DU

RIN

G

INU

ND

AT

ION

(WE

TL

AN

D

FL

OO

DIN

G)

Allow slow filling Maintain open flow path for initial month to flush wetland

Medium Installed culvert etc. (OGW completed) Spring (September) Community group

AF

TE

R

INU

ND

AT

ION

Maintain wet and dry mud Wetland connection opened and closed regularly to induce slow drying, and therefore expose wet/dry mud, and slow refill open connection for fish passage

High 1 person 1 hour/week (15 minutes four times per week)

Continual as per wetland water operational plan see Section 7.02 below

Community group

Maintain clear flow path Medium As appropriate

Funding

As required Community group with assistance from LAP

Monitor as per monitoring plan High See Chapter 8 below See Chapter 8 below See Chapter 8 below

AS

AP

PR

OP

RIA

TE

Weed removal kikuyu Pennisetum clandestinum and saltwater couch Paspalum vaginatum

Medium Funding As appropriate. As per expert recommendation. LAP/Community group

Revegetation High Funding

Seed collection

As appropriate for seed collection and revegetation works. As per expert recommendation.

LAP/Community group

Fence of separate Narrung Inlet wetland Medium Funding When funding becomes available LAP/landowner

Develop appropriate grazing regime in Narrung Inlet wetland area

Medium Funding When funding becomes available LAP/landowner

Annual review of monitored data High Monitored data End of each inundation year (End of Summer) Community group with assistance from LAP


37

SECTION 7.02 WETLAND WATER OPERATIONAL PLAN

The strongest tool in managing a wetland is the control of the wetland hydrology. Hydrology

controls the germination and growth of aquatic and riparian vegetation. The healthy vegetation and

appropriate inundation leads to the growth of biofilms, the vegetation and biofilms being a food

source for macroinvertebrates and small native fish. The vegetation and appropriate water regime

also provide a more diverse habitat for waterbirds and fish. The restoration of Narrung wetland and

fulfilment of the major objectives is therefore reliant upon the establishment of a better flow

connection between the wetland and the Lakes.

(a) WATER REGIME

The wetland currently receives water from Lake Alexandrina when the lake levels are high, by

flowing through the north inlet channel and through the south inlet channel connecting to Lake

Albert, both shown in Map 8. Following onground works, i.e. the clearing of the flow channel

connecting the wetland to Lake Alexandrina, the instillation of culverts where appropriate (see

Section 7.01), the inflow into the wetland should be achievable even at low lake levels allowing full

control of the wetland hydrology and therefore the freshening of the wetland. The median water

levels within Lake Alexandrina for a 10-year period (1994 to 2004) is 0.774 m AHD (calculated

from the daily mean water level obtained from the DWLBC Surface Water Archive (Department of

Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2005)) and would have had a great influence on the

wetland water levels. The new water regime will to some degree rely on the lake levels at the time

of inundation, i.e. spring. The spring median lake levels (September and October), 0.83 m AHD,

were therefore used to set the maximal depth the wetland would reach, during initial flooding.

The levels within the wetland will be manipulated to provide a similar slow drawdown and

therefore provide shallow water and wet mud areas for waders that frequent the wetland, see Figure

21 for a representation of the water level fluctuations. This water regime is dependent on Lake

Levels being operated @ approximately 0.83 m AHD during September. The culvert connecting the

wetland to Lake Albert will therefore be opened to allow a slow filling of the wetland of 2 cm/day.

The wetland will then be left open to the lake for close on a month to allow water exchange and

freshening of the wetland. Thereafter a slow drawdown with occasional freshening (refilling) will

allow the development of wed mud and shallow areas. During the times when the wetland is being

refilled, to account for evaporative loss and partial refilling, native fish will have free movement

between the wetland and Lake Albert. An extended draw down will follow in December with a

reconnection with the lake in late January or when the wetland is at 0.5 m (whichever occurs

sooner) through the channel inlet culvert to allow the last opportunity for fish to vacate the drying

and slowly salinising wetland.


38

Figure 21: Water regime scenario

(b) VOLUME CALCULATIONS

The baseline survey provided estimates of the volume within the wetland at four different depths.

These depths did not include all the depths required for this wetland. Therefore, to obtain the water

volume required at the main lagoon at the depth expected during filling, a polynomial relationship

was established between the depth of the water in the wetland and the volume (both given in the

SKM baseline survey data for 4 different depths). This polynomial relationship was based on the

data from the DEM of the main lagoon. Equation 1, established to calculate the volume at a given

depth for the main lagoon, where volume is in ML and depth in metres, had an R2 of 0.9999.

Equation 1: 7441.868.10331.3282

depthdepthVolume

The DEM was complete for the main lagoon only, not for the smaller lagoons the east and south

east lagoons (see Map 7). Therefore, as little data existed for the south east lagoon the area of

probable inundation was identified, the probable extent of inundation can be seen in Map 7. Based

on this identified area and the assumption that the morphology of the lagoons in the wetland

complex would be very similar, given the same soil structure and historically being the same

wetland, an estimation of the volume of water within the smaller lagoons could be extrapolated

from the main lagoon data. For this purpose, Equation 2 was established to calculate the volume at a

given area, where volume is in ML and area in ha, the equation had an R2 of 0.9875. Compared

with the alternate option of calculating the volume within the basins, surface area multiplied by

depth, this equation delivered a better fit when tested on the available main lagoon data. Given the

lack of information on the accurate volumes of the south east and east lagoons the depth and surface

areas are only estimates, the depth and the volume are based on the data from the main lagoon. The

volume of the south east lagoon is however less than 10% of the volume of the total wetland once

the main and south east lagoons have been re-joined. The inaccuracy, especially in such a small

lagoon is therefore negligible.

Equation 2: 4748.1

0.3957 AreaVolume

The evaporation rates were attained using the Wetland Loss Calculator obtained from RMWCMB.

Equation 3 with an R2 of 0.9909 was used to estimate the surface area of the wetland exposed to

Se

pte

mb

er

Oc

tob

er

No

ve

mb

er

De

ce

mb

er

Ja

nu

ary

Fe

bru

ary

Ma

rch

Ap

ril

Ma

y

Ju

ne

Ju

ly

Au

gu

st

0

0 .1

0.2

0.3

0.4

0.5

0.6

0.7

0.8

0.9W

etl

an

d D

ep

th (

m)


39

evaporation in each month when the wetland was inundated based on the expected wetland depth

(wetland depth will be used to control the development of mudflats in the wetland lagoons). The

details of the estimated volume of evaporation used for the calculation of water requirements can be

seen in Appendix H along with the calculated surface area based on Equation 3.

Equation 3: 1254228522609334422

xDepthDepthArea

The total annual water requirements were calculated following Equation 5. As the wetland will be

drawn down to facilitate the production of mud flats in the wetland the surface area of the wetland

will change throughout the management period. To account for the change in evaporation with the

reducing wetland surface area evaporation rates were calculated for each months targeted wetland

depth. The change in evaporation and the change in wetland volume will change the water

requirements to maintain the appropriate wetland volume, for this purpose Equation 4 was

developed. In Equation 4 ΔWWR is the monthly change in wetland water requirement due to slow

drawdown i.e. wet mud development, ΔWV is the change in wetland volume, which is based on the

OGWV (original wetland water volume) and the NWV (the new wetland volume), and the

Evaporation is calculated for each month.

Equation 4: )( NWVOGWVWVnEvaporatioWWR

The total annual water requirements were calculated following Equation 5.

Equation 5: aporationPotenialEvVolumequirementslWaterTotalAnnua Re


40

Table 17: Water required over fill period of Narrung wetland

Month Average Lakes Level (1)

Depth aimed for

Wetland surface area (ha) at a given depth (2)

Volume ML from depth m (3)

Difference in wetland volume based on surface area (4)

Fill volume required per month (ML) Including evaporation

(Less difference in wetland volume) (5)

Volume required (ML) (+10 for water level manipulations)

Alternate (6)

Description

Sept 0.848 0.83

(filling) 38 149 N/A 150 N/A 150

148+25+5=(178)

Open culvert to allow inundation at 2 cm/day

Oct 0.829 0.83 38 149 N/A 23 N/A 23 23+2 Maintain open

Nov 0.802 0.73 34 108 41 41 0 0 (+10) 46+2

Start slow drawdown and slow water level

fluctuations (Opening culvert intermittently will allow passage of fish)

Dec 0.755 0.63 30 74 34 46 12 (+10) 58+4

Late in Dec. start extended drying period

down to 0.6 m AHD. Water level fluctuations

as required will continue.

Jan 0.707 0.53 24 46 28 37 9 (+10) 59+5 Reconnect for a short time in late January

Feb 0.651 Drying N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Start drying

Mar 0.61 Drying N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Drying

Apr 0.695 Dry N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Dry

Total (7) 224 336

(1) Calculated from the daily mean water level obtained from the, DWLBC Surface Water Archive (Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation 2005)

(2) Obtained using Equation 3;

(3) Obtained using Equation 1

(4) OGWV-FWV


(6) If change in wetland volume is not considered and therefore evaporation is as per 38 ha the following would be the water requirement



41

Using the above equations an estimated water use calculation for Narrung wetland, including

evaporation loss, could be developed. This water use calculation can be seen in both Table 17 and

Table 18. The total annual allocation requirements for Narrung wetland annually amounts to 240

ML (or 240,000 kL). At the end of each inundation season a review of monitored data is required to

assess the impact of the changed hydrology, this would be part of an annual review of the wetland

management plan. An annual review of the WMP is essential for best practice management to guide

efforts according to the vision and objectives. This will assist to assess whether the current

management of lowered sill level is an effective hydrology management strategy or whether a

revision of the wetland management plan is required.

Table 18: Water use calculation

Lagoon Surface

area (ha)

Volume

(ML)

Potential Evaporation

(ML) (1)

Total Annual Water

Requirement (ML)

Main 38 to 24 148 to 46 23 to 46 224 (3) (336 ML if we don’t account for a change in evaporation due to draw down)

South east 3.3

(Equation 2)

2.3 16.3 18.6 (4)

Total (2) 240 (or 380 ML)

(1) Obtained using Wetland Loss Calculator (Oct., Nov., Dec. & Jan. only) & Equation 3

(2) Rounded to nearest 10 ML

(3) Obtained from Table 17


The salinity impact of wetland management was to be estimated using the SIWM model. However

the Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC) has withdrawn the use of

the SIWM model. Some inherent difficulties were found in developing and finalising this model for

general use leading to a new modelling approach to be undertaken. DWLBC is presently developing

a new model for the simulation of, the impact wetland management will have on salt accumulation

within wetlands, as well as, the potential impacts to the river (Croucher 2005). A salinity

assessment will be conducted on Narrung wetland once the model is available for use, a brief report

outlining the results of this modelling will be included in the plan in the future.


42

Chapter 8. MONITORING

For the development of a wetland management plan, Narrung wetland was included in the River

Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004). The data collected during this survey provided a

basis by which objectives for wetland management could be refined, hydrology guidelines could be

developed and review procedures scheduled. However this data did not cover all the issues related

to managing the Narrung wetland. Partly as a consequence, but also as part of adaptive management

and best practise wetland management, monitoring of the wetland has been devised to answer some

of the unknowns to the changed hydrological regime and water quality, the monitoring schedule can

be seen in Table 20. That is, ongoing monitoring during wetland management plays a role in

adaptive management by providing managers with information on how the wetland is responding to

management strategies, whether the objectives are being met, whether there are off-target

implications (wetland in regional context) or (as per Your Wetland: Monitoring Manual (Tucker

2004)) whether the Golden Rules are being broken. The Golden Rules being:

Don‟t salinise your wetland.

Don‟t kill long lived vegetation.

Don‟t destroy threatened communities or habitats of threatened species.

To ensure that monitored data is available for evaluation, review and reporting, a log of all

activities, monitoring and site descriptions should be maintained at an accessible and convenient

location. The data will ultimately be stored in the appropriate state government databases. See

report by Hydro Tasmania (2003). The purpose of such a log is to maintain a record of management

steps undertaken, their justification and observed impacts/implications. The maintenance of a log is

both good management practice, allowing future reference to potential impacts of management, and

a requirement of the Wetland Water License.

Photopoints have been installed at the wetland to monitor impacts of wetland rehabilitation. The

locations of the photopoints can be seen in Table 19. Refer to Your Wetland: Monitoring Manual

(Tucker 2004) for examples of data log sheets and further description of monitoring methods.

Table 19: Photopoint locations

Site Name

Date

installed Directions Zone Easting Northing Datum Description

NARPP01 1 54 WGS 84 Near pump shed

NARPP02 08/03/06 4 54 334575 6068691 WGS 84 Along causeway separating two lagoons

NARPP03 08/03/06 4 54 334083 6069255 WGS 84 Near inlet channel, far side of wetland


43

Table 20: Monitoring plan for Narrung wetland.

Parameter Method Priority SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG Time Required Responsible

Groundwater Level and Conductivity

MODERATE

1 monitoring day event

Community Group/Wetla

nd Officer

Surface Water

Water quality monitoring (cond,

turb, temp)

HIGH



nd Officer

Surface level (using gauge

boards) HIGH

Weekly during filling and maintenance NA NA NA NA NA NA 0.5 hour Dan Pratt

Fish* Seine net, dip net (and fyke nets if deep enough)

HIGH

1 monitoring day

event


nd Officer

Vegetation

Photopoint monitoring

MODERATE

2 hours


nd Officer

Quadrat/line intercept

LOW



nd Officer

Frogs Recording Calls

HIGH 0.5 hour

Charles and Jo Andre

Birds Fixed area search HIGH 0.5 hour David Dadd

Macro- invertebrates

Dip net survey

LOW

1 monitoring day event (not including

identification)


nd Officer

* fish can be monitored both during connection to the wetland and once the wetland has been drawn down sufficiently to block movement of fish i.e. are there any threatened species the management may be having an impact on.


44

Chapter 9. EVALUATION, REVIEW AND REPORTING

SECTION 9.01 EVALUATION AND REVIEW

A review, of the implications of changed management of Narrung wetland, needs to be an ongoing

process. For the wetland management plan to be an adaptive and complete document, periodic

reviews have been scheduled in the monitoring and evaluation framework.

The full impact of a changed hydrology and water quality and the effectiveness of the new regime

cannot be fully predicted. Therefore, the data obtained through monitoring need to be regularly

reviewed to respond to impacts of the management strategy. An annual review of the monitored

data and the condition of the wetland should be conducted by the Community group with assistance

from the Coorong District LAP and the SA MDB NRM BOARD. This review should be scheduled

following the drawdown/drying of the wetland prior to the following season of inundation. A full

review of the wetland management plan should be scheduled in 5 years.

For the annual review to be effective it needs to include an upgrade of the;

Hydrological regime based on new knowledge and understanding, e.g. whether the

freshening of the wetland has occurred and its implications to the wading birds population

Monitoring schedule to reflect changes in the wetland management plan.

SECTION 9.02 REPORTING

The wetland management plan for Narrung wetland is comprehensive and includes an estimation of

the water requirements over the period covered in this plan. The initial volume applied for will be

for stage one which covers the main lagoon and the south east lagoon. A second water requirement

application will need to be made following completion/finance of stage 2 on ground work. Should

the volume used deviate substantially from the plan the Department of Water Land and Biodiversity

Conservation (DWLBC) will need to be notified. The records noted in the activity and monitoring

logs will assist in reporting to DWLBC. Further as part of the requirements of the water license, any

substantial change in the wetland management plan, e.g. objectives, monitoring timetable or

hydrology regime change, also needs to be reported to DWLBC.


45

Chapter 10. REFERENCES

(1986a). Australian Treaty Series 1981 No 6 (Jamba). Accessed 16 June 2005,

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treaties/1981/6.html.

(1986b). Australian Treaty Series 1988 No 22 (Camba). Accessed 16 June 2005,

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treties/1988/22.html.

(2000). Coorong, and Lakes Alexandrina and Albert Ramsar Management Plan. Adelaide, South

Australian Department for Environment and Heritage.

Bjornsson, K. T., A. Brodie, et al. (2002). Riparian Areas and on-Farm Wetlands in the Australian

Sugar Industry. Townsville, CRC for Sustainable Sugar Production.

BOM (2005). Climate Averages. Accessed 18 March 2005,

www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_024518.shtml.

Croucher, D. (2005). Personal Communication.

Dadd, D. (2005). Personal Communication.

Dadd, D. (2006). Personal Communication.

Department of Water Land and Biodiversity Conservation (2005). Surface Water Archive.

Accessed 3 August 2005,

http://www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au/subs/surface_water_archive/a1pgs/mapindex.htm.

Frears, A. (2006). Personal Communication. Wetland Project Officer, Lower Murray

South Australian Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board.

Gosbell, K. (2004). Waterbird Surveys around the Shoreline of Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert

January 2003 to February 2004 in Response to a Drawdown in Water Levels. South East Region,

South Australia, Department for Environment and Heritage. Draft Report 14-4-04

Hydro Tasmania (2003). River Murray Wetlands Data Management Project Final Report. River

Murray Catchment Water Management Board.

Jensen, A., P. Paton, et al. (1996). Wetlands Atlas of the South Australian Murray Valley.

ADELAIDE, South Australian River Murray Wetlands Management Committee. South Australian

Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

National Parks and Wildlife Council and Department for Environment and Heritage (2003). 2003

Review of the Status of Threatened Species in South Australia: Proposed Schedules under the South

Australian National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972. Government of South Australia. Discussion Paper

National Wetlands Program (1998). Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (Convention on Wetlands of

International Importance). Accessed 7 October 1999,

http://www.anca.gov.au/environm/wetlands/ramindex.html.

Nicol, J. (2005). The Ecology of Ruppia Spp. In South Australia, with Reference to the Coorong.

Adelaide, South Australian Research and Development Institute (Aquatic Sciences): 44p. SARDI

Aquatic Sciences Publication Number RD04/0247-2

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treaties/1981/6.html

http://www.austlii.edu.au/au/other/dfat/treties/1988/22.html

http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/averages/tables/cw_024518.shtml

http://www.dwlbc.sa.gov.au/subs/surface_water_archive/a1pgs/mapindex.htm

http://www.anca.gov.au/environm/wetlands/ramindex.html


46

Nicol, J. (2006). Personal Communication. Senior Research Officer Wetland & Riparian Plant

Ecology Inland Waters Sub-Program: Sardi Aquatic Sciences.

Peck, D. (2000). The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands: The Annotated Ramsar List: Australia.

Accessed 27 April 2005, http://www.ramsar.org/profiles_australia.htm.

River Murray Catchment Water Management Board (2002). Water Allocation Plan for the River

Murray Prescribed Watercourse. Berri, South Australia, Government of South Australia.

River Murray Catchment Water Management Board and Department of Water Land and

Biodiversity Conservation (2003). Guidelines for Development of Wetland Management Plans for

the River Murray in South Australia.

Seaman, R. L. (2003). Coorong and Lower Lakes Habitat-Mapping Program. South Australia,

Department for Environment and Heritage. Conservation Programs

SKM (2004). River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey. South Australian Murray Darling Basin

Natural Resources Management Board.

State Library of South Australia River Murray Timeline. Accessed 23 February 2006,

http://www.slsa.sa.gov.au/murray/timeline.htm.

Tucker, P. (2004). Your Wetland: Monitoring Manual - Data Collection. Renmark SA, River

Murray Catchment Water Management Board

Australian Landscape Trust.

Tucker, P., S. Dominelli, et al. (2003). Your Wetland: Supporting Information. Renmark SA,

Australian Landscape Trust.

Wedderburn, S. and M. Hammer (2003). The Lower Lakes Fish Inventory:Distribution and

Conservation of Freshwater Fishes of the Rasmar Convention Wetland at the Terminus of the

Murray Darling Basin, South Australia. Adelaide, Native Fish Australia (SA) Inc.

Woodward-Clyde (2000). Identification of Potential Wetland Rehabilitation Sites.

http://www.ramsar.org/profiles_australia.htm

http://www.slsa.sa.gov.au/murray/timeline.htm


47

Appendix A. Wetlands Atlas Data for Wetland Main Body

Table 21: Narrung wetland, Wetland atlas data (Jensen, Paton et al. 1996)

Main lagoon

South East Lagoon (not from

atlas) East Lagoon (not

from atlas)

AREA 309613.135 33010 53811

PERIMETER 3367.51452 786 909

WETLANDS_ 1116

WETLANDS_I 1115

AS2482 44190

AUS_WETNR S0020

AUSDIRNO_9

AUSDIR_NO

THOM_WETNR L019

NAME NARRUNG

COMPLEX LAKE ALBERT FRINGING

WETLAND

WATERCOURS 1

MDBC_DISTN 2

WATER_REGI TEMPORARY Temporary Temporary

INTERNATIO 1

NATIONAL 1

BASIN 1

VALLEY 1

SHOULD_REA

ConsValue 1

ConsCode

DataSource Wetland atlas Drawn polygon Drawn polygon


48

Appendix B. Surface Water Archive Graph

DWLBC, Surface Water Archive HYPLOT V128 Output 13/10/2004

Period 11 Year Plot Start 00:00_01/01/1994 1994-05

Interval 1 Month Plot End 00:00_01/01/2005

AW426583 LAKE ALEXANDRINA @ Narrung Jetty 102.00 Max & Min Lake Level (m) Recording

0.2

0.4

0.6

0.8

1

1.2

1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004

Figure 22: Lake Alexandrina water level at Narrung Jetty (10 year period)


49

Appendix C. Baseline Survey Locations (Source SKM (2004)


50

Appendix D. Baseline Survey DEM (Source SKM (2004)


51


52

Appendix E. Baseline Survey Groundwater


53


54


55


56


57


58

Appendix F. Baseline Survey Vegetation Zones


59

Appendix G. Species List for Narrung wetland

SECTION G.01 FLORA

Table 22: Plant Associations at Narrung wetland (adapted from River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004))

Species Common Name

Intr

od

uce

d Conservati

on Rating

Plant Association

*

AU

S

SA

MU

1 2 3 4

Azolla filiculoides Pacific azolla X X

Bolboschoenus caldwellii Salt club-rush X

*Cotula coronopifolia Water buttons X X

Crassula helmsii Swamp Crassula X

Eleocharis acuta Common Spike-rush X

Frankenia pauciflora var. gunnii

Southern sea-heath

X

Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. pergranulata

Black-seed samphire

X

Lepilaena ?cylindrocarpa X

Lilaeopsis polyantha Australian Lilaeopsis R X

*Ludwigia peploides ssp. montevidensis

Water primrose X

X X

Mimulus repens Creeping monkey-flower X

Myriophyllum caput-medusae Coarse milfoil K X X

Myriophyllum salsugineum Lake milfoil Q X

*Paspalum vaginatum Salt-water couch X X X

Phragmites australis Common reed X

*Polypogon monspeliensis Annual beard-grass X X

Ruppia polycarpa Widgeon grass X X

Samolus repens Creeping brookweed X

Sarcocornia quinqueflora Beaded samphire X

*Spergularia marina Salt sand-spurrey X X

Suaeda australis Austral seablite X

*Trifolium repens White Clover X X

Triglochin striatum Streaked arrowgrass X

Total species 6 12 5 2 9

% introduced 26 33 40 0 11

Q = possible regional conservation significance; K = uncertain regional conservation status; R = rare regional conservation

rating.

* Plant association:

1. Eleocharis acuta / Bolboschoenus caldwellii Closed Sedgeland

2. Myriophyllum caput-medusae Herbland over Azolla filiculoides


60

3. Lepilaena ?cylindrocarpa / Ruppia polycarpa Herbland

4. Sarcocornia quinqueflora Low Closed Shrubland over Triglochin striatum and Ruppia polycarpa

Narrung Primary students collected the plants in Table 23, from the wetland. The majority of the exotic

species were collected closer to the roadside. All species collected closer to the wetland (in more saline

conditions) were native species.

Table 23: Vegetation identified by the local community (table provided by A. Frears (2006))

* Note specimen NAR 01 (submerged aquatic plant tolerant of high salinity) is yet to be id’d.

ID

Name

Common Name Scientific Name Native/Exotic Description

NAR 01* Native Submerged aquatic plant

NAR 02 Emu Grass Distichlis distichophylla Native Small, spiky grass

NAR 03 Common Reed Phragmites australis Native Tall green reed

NAR 04 Austral Sea Blite Sueda australis Native Purple/green and shrubby

NAR 05 Buckshore Plantain Plantago coronopus Exotic Toothed leaves and long seed-head

NAR 06 African Boxthorn Lycium ferocissimum Exotic Prickly bush

NAR 07 Wild Sage Salvia verbenaceae Exotic Purple flowers, small black seeds (Bad

Weed!)

NAR 08 Scabious (purple flower) Scabiosa atropurpurea Exotic Purple flower on end of long stem

(roadside weed)

NAR 09 Southern Sea-Heath Frankenia pauciflora Native Groundcover with tiny leaves and purple

flowers

NAR 10 Scabious (yellow flower) Scabiosa atropurpurea Exotic Yellow flower on end of long stem

(roadside weed)

NAR 11 Hares Tail Grass Lagurus ovatus Exotic Grass with fluffy seed head

NAR 12 Beaded Glasswort Halosarcia sp. Native Stumpy green or purple stems

NAR 13 Tall Wheatgrass Elymus elongatus Exotic Long cylindrical leaves, long seed

heads

NAR 14 Samphire Sarcocornia quinqueflora Native Long green turgid stems

NAR 15 Lignum Muehlenbeckia florulenta Native Large bush, long thin green spindly stems


61

SECTION G.02 WETLAND AND FLOODPLAIN FAUNA

(a) BIRDS OF NARRUNG SURROUNDS AND LOWER LAKES

Table 24: Bird species identified at Narrung wetland (adapted from River Murray Wetlands Baseline Survey (SKM 2004))

Common

Name

Scientific Name Spring Summer Total

abundance

Conservation

status

Sit

e 1

Sit

e 2

Sit

e 3

Sit

e 1

Sit

e 2

Sit

e 3

Australian shelduck

Tadorna tadornoides

59 0 0 0 0 0 59 EPBC - Migratory

Australian white ibis

Threskiornis molucca

0 1 3 0 0 0 4 NA

Black swan Cygnus atratus 63 0 0 0 0 0 63 EPBC - Migratory

Black-fronted Dotterel

Elseyornis melanops


Caspian tern Sterna caspia 1 0 4 0 75 0 80 EPBC - Migratory

Crested tern Sterna bergii 2 0 66 0 0 0 68 EPBC - Migratory

Great egret Ardea alba 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 EPBC - Migratory

Masked lapwing Vanellus miles 0 0 3 0 2 86 91 EPBC - Migratory

Pink-eared Duck Malacorhynchus membranaceus


Red-kneed dotterel

Erythrogonys cinctus


Red-necked stint Calidris ruficollis 2 43 0 0 0 0 45 EPBC - Migratory

Silver gull Larus novaehollandiae


Whiskered tern Chlidonias hybridus


Total Individuals 139 51 110 0 81 86 467

Species 7 4 7 0 3 1 13

Table 25: Water birds at 23 sites bordering Lakes Alexandrina and Albert (adapted from (Gosbell 2004))

WATERFOWL

Number

Observed

WADERS

Number

Observed

Hoary head Grebe 200 Latham's Snipe 0

Australasian Grebe 14 Black-tailed Godwit 1

Great Crested Grebe 990 Bar-tailed Godwit 0

Little Pied Cormorant 551 Godwit Spp. 0


62

Little Black Cormorant 3306 Little Curlew 0

Great Black Cormorant 20839 Whimbrel 0

Pied Cormorant 7736 Eastern Curlew 0

Black Faced Cormorant 77 Marsh Sandpiper 132

Australian Darter 64 Common Greenshank 173

Australian Pelican 9869 Wood Sandpiper 32

Little Egret 11 Terek Sandpiper 0

Intermediate Egret 36 Common Sandpiper 0

Great Egret 344 Grey-tailed Tattler 0

White Faced Heron 153 Wandering Tattler 0

Australasian Bittern 2 Great Knot 0

Royal Spoonbill 202 Red Knot 0

Yellow -billed Spoonbill 311 Knot spp. 0

Straw-necked Ibis 3250 Sanderling 0

Australian White Ibis 1114 Red-Necked Stint 5498

Glossy Ibis 256 Sharp-tailed Sandpiper 2533

Cape Barren Goose 1921 Curlew Sandpiper 195

Black swan 10011 Bush-stone Curlew 0

Australian Shelduck 26890 Beach-stone Curlew 0

Freckled Duck 716 Pied Oystercatcher 0

Wood Duck 127 Sooty Oystercatcher 0

Hardhead 941 Black-winged Stilt 1460

Pacific Black Duck 8520 Banded Stilt 345

Australasian Shoveler 1400 Red-necked Avocet 635

Grey Teal 28478 Pacific Golden Plover 3

Chestnut Teal 962 Grey Plover 0

Pink- eared Duck 921 Double-Banded Plover 152

Blue-billed Duck 0 Lesser Sand Plover 0

Musk Duck 6 Sand Plover Spp. 0

Spotless Crake 2 Oriental Plover 0

Australian Crake 3 Black-Fronted Dotterel 6

Baillon's Crake 0 Hooded Plover 0

Buff-banded Rail 0 Red-Kneed Dotterel 64

Eurasian Coot 64325 Banded Lapwing 49

Dusky Moorhen 7 Red-capped Plover 256

Purple Swamphen 1080 Masked Lapwing 2576

Blacktailed Native hen 2 Unidentified Large 0

Pacific Gull 0 Unidentified Meduim 0

Silver Gull 5155 Unidentified Small 192

Gull-billed Tern 7 Unidentified WaderSpecies 0

Crested Tern 1424 Other Wader Species 7


63

Caspian Tern 2001

Little Tern 164

Fairy Tern 6

Whiskered Tern 18704

TOTAL

WATERFOWL 223,165

TOTAL WADERS 14,945

TOTAL

WATERBIRDS 238,110


64

Appendix H. Evaporation and precipitation obtained using the Wetland Loss Calculator.

Table 26: Calculated water loss (evaporation – precipitation) from the Wetland Loss Calculator for the main lagoon

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL (ML)

Area used in calculation (ha) 38 38 38 38 38

Net Loss (ML) Year 1 59 25 23 46 58 381

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC TOTAL (ML)

Area used in calculation (ha) 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3 3.3

Net Loss (ML) Year 1 5 2 2 4 5 33

Documents

Narrung WMP 2006 Small