Bellingen Chamber of Commerce

Bellingen Shire Council resolved to place on public exhibition its Kalang River Health Plan at its recent Ordinary meeting.

“This Plan outlines the future cooperative approach between Council, community and government stakeholders to address water quality in the Kalang“ said Council’s General Manager, Mike Colreavy.

“The plan has been developed through an extensive public and stakeholder consultation process and therefore very much reflects the community’s and agencies needs and recommendations with strategies and actions that are appropriate, effective and sustainable. Council is committed to improving water quality and river health and is grateful for the support of the programs key partner the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change – Estuary Program who has assisted financially in the development of the plan.” Mr Colreavy stated.

Nine key issues were identified as matters that need attention to improve water quality and river health. In order of priority they are:

• agricultural practices
• on-site sewage management systems (OSMS)
• riparian and wetland management
• boating, tourism and recreational impacts
• waste water treatment plants
• forestry, logging and clearing
• stormwater and building construction
• rural roads and bridges
• water quality monitoring.

Council has placed the document on public display until the 16th October and seeks written comments on the draft addressed to the General Manager. Copies of the document are available at Council’s Administration Centre, the Bellingen and Urunga Libraries, Lindsay’s Oyster Barn, and Anchors Wharf or in electronic format via Council’s website www.bellingen.nsw.gov.au .

For further details please contact Council’s River Keeper on 6655 7353.