Watering Rejuvenates Cadell Wetland Recovery
Cadell Wetland has received its first environmental watering since the 2022-23 flood, helping to support its recovery and strengthen its ecological health.
Early signs of recovery are already evident, with increased bird activity and the welcome sound of frogs calling.
Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board Wetland Ecologist, Annie Kriesl is grateful for the local community’s support, noting that the Cadell community is truly the driving force behind this project and its success in managing the wetland during the watering event.
“Local community members, including those from the Cadell Tourism Association, have been crucial partners and advocates for this project.,” said Annie.
“These volunteers, who have been involved in monitoring this area for many years, will provide on-ground support by managing water valves, monitoring environmental conditions, and recording observations” she added. “Their ongoing involvement will play an important role in the long-term monitoring of the site’s recovery, ensuring a collaborative approach to wetland management”.
Watering brings new life to Cadell Wetland
The watering, made possible with the use of Commonwealth environmental water, is expected to benefit native birds, frogs, and vegetation by revitalising the wetland’s natural cycles and providing vital habitat.
Cadell has two lagoons that will receive environmental water. The first lagoon opposite the oval will slowly fill and, once full, water will be redirected to the secondary lagoon.
“This is the first time the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board have watered Cadell, so we’ll be watching the water levels closely and topping up the wetland, when necessary,” said Annie.
The habitat created as the wetland fills will be important to many creatures, including frogs, and monitoring how the biodiversity improves will be essential.
“If you’re visiting Cadell and hear frogs calling, you can join the effort by participating in a FrogSpotter survey,” said Annie. “Citizen science initiatives like this help us understand the health of our wetlands and the species they support” she added.
For more information about FrogSpotter, go to: frogwatchsa.com.au
This initiative is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program and landscape levies, with environmental water provided by the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder.