$118 million in Federal funding has been announced for South Australia’s drought stricken Lower Lakes and Coorong areas after years of continual drought.

 

The funding package will include $9 million for the removal of regulators in Goolwa Channel and $46 million to reduce salinity in the Coorong's South Lagoon.

 

Federal Water Minister Tony Burke says years of continual drought in the area have intensified the needs for government intervention

"The effects of drought, including record low inflows in which the water level of the lakes fell below sea level, have taken their toll on this unique wetlands system," he said.

 

"Now is the right time for action to protect this precious area for future generations by maximising the benefits the site is currently receiving from higher inflows."

 

The $118 million package includes:

  • Up to $39 million for a Vegetation and Fish Program to stabilise the ecology of the region and to deliver a healthy and resilient wetland through planting to restore habitat, pest management and protection of revegetated areas.
  • Up to $46 million, following an initial investigation phase, to reduce salinity levels in the Coorong South Lagoon and reintroducing the aquatic plant Ruppia to the Coorong to boost the region's ecology.
  • Up to $6.3 million to build capacity in the region by supporting Ngarrindjeri Partnerships to use their long-term knowledge and traditions for restoring health of the region, the continuation of the Lakes Hubs at Milang and Meningie, and the establishment of a regional Community Advisory Panel to provide for community representation to inform planning and on-ground works.