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Watercourses and their surrounding vegetation are vital to the health, biodiversity and landscape of the Shire of Mundaring. Learn why they matter, what threatens them and when approvals may be required for clearing or works near water.
Definitions
Watercourse
Shire of Mundaring defines a watercourse as:
- Any river, stream or creek in which water flows in a natural channel whether permanently or intermittently
- An artificial aqueduct for the conveyance of water.
Riparian vegetation
The plants growing on the water's edge, the banks of rivers and creeks and along the edges of wetlands are referred to as 'riparian vegetation'. Riparian vegetation can include trees, shrubs, grasses and vines in a complex structure of groundcovers, understorey and canopy.
The importance of watercourses and riparian vegetation
Watercourses and their riparian vegetation:
- Catch water from the surrounding landscape, helping to reduce flooding
- Contain high levels of biodiversity
- Include understorey plants that filter excess nutrients and pollutants from stormwater and runoff
- Provide large woody debris and vegetation that offer shelter and habitat for wildlife
- Have root systems that stabilise stream banks and prevent erosion
- Provide shade that reduces light penetration and lowers water temperature
- Hold cultural significance for Indigenous people.
Healthy riparian vegetation is a key indicator of the overall condition of a watercourse.
The booklet below discusses this importance as well as the identification of native plants that are found along watercourses in the Perth Hills.
The Value of Fringing Vegetation (Watercourse) by Una Bell (PDF)
Watercourses in the Shire of Mundaring
Watercourses in the Shire of Mundaring are shaped by the area’s unique topography and climate, and they are a defining feature of the hills landscape. These catchments and tributaries also support the health of the Swan River and supply clean drinking water to the Goldfields.
Many of these inland waters are now under threat from the loss of fringing vegetation and other degrading pressures. Protecting and managing watercourses is essential to reduce environmental impacts and to preserve their ecological and community value.
Environmental damage
Poor management of watercourses and the removal of vegetation can lead to:
- Loss of habitat
- Bank erosion, sedimentation and increased water turbidity
- Build-up of nutrients and pollutants
- Weed invasion that prevents native plants from establishing, reducing overall plant diversity.
Inappropriate development within or near watercourses, such as poorly designed dams or vehicle crossings, can also disrupt natural water flow. This may increase the risk of localised flooding or cause erosion issues downstream.
Erosion and sediment control
Erosion control measures are critical to reduce the amount of productive topsoil blown away in the wind, or washed downhill into dams and waterways. Soil is left more exposed after fire and ash can cause significant problems in water bodies.
Refer to the information sheet below to find out what can be done to prevent erosion.
Erosion and Sediment Control (PDF)
Approval required for clearing or land development
Shire of Mundaring has rules regarding activities that can be undertaken on or near watercourses on private property.
Find out more about approvals required for clearing or developing land, including local, State an Commonwealth government approvals that may be required.
Volunteering opportunities
Residents can get involved in protecting and restoring wetlands and watercourses across the Shire. Many local Catchment and Friends Groups carry out bush regeneration projects, including the restoration of creek lines and streams.
To learn more, visit Catchment and Friends Groups.
More information and contact
For more information about wetland and watercourses, contact the Shire’s Environmental Team on (08) 9290 6651 or email shire@mundaring.wa.gov.au.