Most of the project occurred during the irrigation off-season. This allowed the works to be undertaken from within the dewatered channel to minimise the impacts on the native vegetation surrounding the channel.
Goulburn-Murray Water field services manager Tony Corbett said he was pleased with the outcome of the works.
“We adopted an innovative approach to this project knowing that the native vegetation surrounding the channel was important to the community,” he said.
“In addition to achieving this by completing the bulk of the works from within the channel, the project has been completed to a very high standard, which is fantastic for downstream irrigators.”
The works included the removal of silt and aquatic weeds from the channel, remodelling of the channel where erosion had occurred, and rock-armouring the channel banks.
These improvements will improve the channel’s flow and capacity, as well as its longevity.
An arborist and other specialists were engaged to ensure G-MW meets its regulatory obligations, including a Native Vegetation Assessment.
Some trees were subsequently removed where uprooting could cause safety issues for people using the nearby paths.
However, the rehabilitation of the channel banks is also expected to support the health of the native vegetation in the area, as it will prevent tree roots being exposed by erosion of the channel banks.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience and cooperation during the project,” Mr Corbett said.
“We worked closely with a lot of different stakeholders and appreciate everyone who took the time to meet us at the drop-in sessions or through other means to share their feedback.
“Along with the Cohuna community, we would especially like to thank the Parkrun organisers and volunteers, Cohuna Scout Group, Cohuna Neighbourhood House and Gannawarra Shire Council for their assistance during the works.”
For more information, go to: www.g-mwater.com.au/news-updates/notices/upcoming-works-in-cohuna.html
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