Waterwatch Data Portal

Notes

Physical Chemical Tests

what has changed since last time you monitored? Faster flow, more turbid , more oxygen, better EC Invertebrate & Stream condition improved What stands out about the site today? Faster flow and foam (below dam wall) Extra large amount of rubbish on ledges, in Cumbungi and in pit drain (More hidden from view). Tunnels blocked with debris. Other observations: Red -rumped parrots, white cockatoos, Bronzewing, Rainbow Lorikeets, Small blue butterflies, 8 Pacific Black Ducks. More observations by Anna Richtarik: Last WW session was quite interesting. I had not seen the water flow so rapidly and the water turbidity was quite high. However, the EC and pH were good. What was interesteing was the macro-invertebrates. The overall rating was good. This surprised me because I imagined the flood would wash the bugs away and that the condition would limit bug population. It was quite the contrary- there were numerous tiny macro, no bigger than a pinky finger nail. It seems the macros no only survived they also reproduced. Some ideas come to mind: perhaps the presence of edge vegetation protected the macro-providing a refuge, and helter. The edge vegetation may not feel the strong current, much like wind breaks (trees), lessen apparent wind force within agricultural land; perhaps the flood provided a source of food, detritus that would support more macros that usual; and perhaps the heavy abundant rain had improved water quality , by flushing pollutants and other solutes away (unfortunate for the bay and down stream flood plains) and this creates more suitable condition. At the end of the day- it seems life will prevail and should science demonstrate some of these, it could lead to a more resilient river system.

Diary photos