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"October 2007".Project Number: Monitoring of Wetlands Disconnection in New South Wales/DD247/M-BUS-247.MDFRC item.Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was contracted by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (NSW) to undertake an ecological assessment of flora and fauna of Euston Lakes. Euston Lakes have been identified as potential sites for water saving by the Murray Wetland Working Group (MWWG) and NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC), by either installing temporary regulators or block-banks to prevent the wetlands filling. Prior to works commencing there is a requirement to undertake a Review of Environmental Factors to identify any adverse effects of drying on either water quality or threatened flora and fauna. The four wetlands at Euston Lakes identified for water saving are: This report contains the following information: Flora and fauna assessments (including macrophytes, birds, amphibians and fish), with particular interest in threatened species, populations and/or ecological communities; 7-part test for all threatened species, populations and ecological communities identified; and Site assessment for potential adverse impacts (e.g. potential for acidification) and recommend options to ameliorate potential impacts.

"September 2010".Project Number: Drought Contingency Monitoring Back Creek and Tumudgery - M/BUS/250.MDFRC item.1 of 4 reports associated with project see (Assessment of sulfidic sediments at Tumudgery Creek, NSW), (Assessment of sulfidic sediments at Back Creek, NSW) and (Drought Contingency Monitoring at Back Creek, NSW).Tumudgery Creek is a wetland of 136 ha on the Edward-Wakool River system located 40 km north-west of Deniliquin, NSW. In 2007, it was selected for disconnection from the Edward River to achieve water savings as part of drought contingency planning. The Murray-Darling Basin Commission (now the Murray-Darling Basin Authority) engaged the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) to monitor changes in the environmental condition of the wetland to detect and respond to risks of environmental damage. This report deals only with the outcomes and implications of this monitoring and does not present the broader details of the program. Ecological indicators monitored at Tumudgery Creek included presence of sulfidic sediments, water levels and quality, blue-green algae, fish richness and abundance, River Red Gum condition, vegetation community, birds (waterbirds and terrestrial) and groundwater levels. Ten tri-monthly surveys were undertaken during the monitoring period of 6 September 2007 to 18 December 2009. Monitoring results were assessed against pre-determined 'trigger values’ for management intervention based on Wallace et al. (2007) and DWE (2007). These trigger values provided a point at which managers could assess if a management intervention was required. Water levels and quality Tumudgery Creek received four significant inflows during the sampling period. One inflow event occurred before and three occurred after the refurbishment of the Tumudgery Creek regulator in June 2008, with the largest inflow event occurring between September and December 2009. The wetland contained surface water for the duration of the study period, although sections of the creek bed dried between sites T1 and T3 during periods of low water levels. Cross-sectional measurements of the creek bed taken in the single pool between sites T3 and T5 showed water depths of 1.0 to 2.4 m in October 2008 when water levels were at their lowest. The electrical conductivity of surface water ranged from 46 to 154 µS.cm-1 @ 25 °C and was therefore below the 5,000 µS.cm-1 trigger value of DWE (2007) and the 1,000 mg.L-1 (≈ 1,500 µS.cm-1) trigger value of Wallace et al. (2007) at all times. Surface water pH mostly remained within the acceptable pH 6-9 range of DWE (2007) and Wallace et al. (2007), but was outside this range at a single site in August 2008 (pH 9.10) and November 2008 (pH 5.95). Mean dissolved oxygen concentrations at the surface (0.2 m depth) ranged from 4.74 to 10.29 mg.L-1 and were above the 5 mg.L-1 threshold of DWE (2007) on 26 of 28 sampling occasions, and were always above the 2 mg.L-1 threshold of Wallace et al. (2007). The lowest individual site recording for dissolved oxygen was 1.88 mg.L-1. Surface water temperatures ranged from 8.8 °C to 25.1 °C, and were within the DWE (2007) acceptable range of 6–30°C at all sites and monitoring events. Turbidity levels ranged from 45 to 937 NTU, with most readings being

"June 2009".Project Number: Monitoring of wetlands disconnection in New South Wales: Locks 8 and 9 weir pool manipulation - M/BUS/252.MDFRC item.1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Weir Pool Manipulation (In-channel and wetland effects) - Report on Pre-drawdown Monitoring: Weir Pools & Wetlands).The Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was engaged by the former Murray-Darling Basin Commission, to undertake ecological monitoring of nine wetlands connected to Locks 8 and 9 weir pools on the Murray River. These two were under consideration to be drawn down as a water saving measure during the drought which would result in disconnection of the wetlands from the Murray River. The aim of the monitoring program was to (i) identifying water quality threats; (ii) monitor the response of fish and macrophytes in response to the disconnection; (iii) assessing the response of tree condition to changing water levels. The MDFRC undertook monitoring of fish, aquatic and riparian vegetation and water quality within the nine wetlands between December 2007 and December 2008. During this period the expected drawdown of the weir pools did not eventuate and disconnection of the wetlands from the Murray River did not occur. This report summarises the data obtained from the monitoring program, however, interpretation of the data needs to consider that only four sampling events occurred within the 12-month period. Conclusive comments on the communities associated within and between wetlands cannot be made given the limited number of sampling events and short time frame, any statistical analysis undertaken would not detect any differences. Any differences observed could be through natural variability due to seasonality or life cycle processes. Key findings from this monitoring are: -Sediment within five of the wetlands had low pH (

"January 2009".Project Number: Monitoring of temporarily disconnected River Murray wetlands - M/BUS/254.MDFRC item.141 pages. 1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Monitoring of temporarily disconnected River Murray Wetlands: Refilling Recommendations).The Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was engaged by the South Australian Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board SAMDBNRMB) to undertake ecological monitoring on eight wetlands associated with the River Murray in the Riverland and Murray Gorge regions of South Australia. Six of these wetlands have been temporarily disconnected from the main river channel to achieve water savings. Data on biota associated with these wetlands that has been obtained throughout this monitoring program will provide information to SAMDBNRMB to make informed decisions on long-term management of these wetlands. This study specifically focused on (i) identifying water quality threats that may adversely impact on aquatic ecosystems; (ii) monitoring the response of fish and macrophytes to drying wetlands; (iii) assessing the response of tree condition to changing water levels and (iv) monitoring groundwater levels and salinity as they change in response to drying wetlands. Interpretation of the results needs to be undertaken in context, sampling occurred over a 9-month period and did not cover all seasons for all parameters. Conclusive comments on the long-term influence of introducing a drying phase on structural changes within and between wetlands cannot be made. Direct comparisons between wetlands is also impractical as the chosen locations consist of different wetland types, long term monitoring is required to make any definitive comments. At this stage in the monitoring program any statistical analysis undertaken would not detect any changes as a consequence of disconnection. Any changes could be a consequence of seasonality, ongoing drought conditions or natural life cycle processes. Key findings from this study are: The average groundwater gradient trend at the six temporarily disconnected sites was towards the wetland, although further information is required to make accurate predications;.One potential toxin producer of blue-green algae was recorded at Lake Bonney but the recorded biomass was low and below reportable levels; An abundant and relatively diverse native fish community exists within the wetlands. The reference sites Donald Flat Lagoon and Tanyaca Creek which have remained connected to the main river channel displayed greater species diversity; Eight native fish species including three near threatened (Hammer et al. 2007) and four introduced species were recorded; One threatened aquatic plant species (Elatine gratioloides) was observed at two wetlands (Murbko South and Tanyaca Creek); A total of 53 plant species were recorded from all wetlands; Monitoring of temporarily disconnected River Murray wetlands Final Report January 2009 10 Terrestrial plant species were able to establish on the drying wetlands, while submerged macrophytes continued to be recorded at the reference sites; In general the condition of tree canopy condition across all sites is moderately stressed; and Longer-term monitoring is required for definitive comments on the cause and/or effect of the intervention on the disconnected wetlands.

"April 2008".Project Number: Monitoring of temporarily disconnected River Murray wetlands - M/BUS/254.MDFRC item.6 pages. 1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Monitoring of temporarily disconnected River Murray Wetlands final report).The Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was engaged by the South Australian Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board (SAMDBNRMB) to monitor eight wetlands in the Riverland region of South Australia as part of the Living Murray Initiative. Six of these wetlands were temporarily disconnected from the River Murray in 2007, in order to achieve water savings. These wetlands are Nelwart Swamp, Lake Bonney, Yatco Lagoon, Jaeschke Lagoon, Ross Lagoon and Murbko South. Two additional wetlands that have not been disconnected (Tanyaca Creek and Donald Flat Lagoon) are being monitored as reference sites. Monitoring of these wetlands includes sampling of eight parameters (Table 1). To date, the parameters being measured 6-weekly have been five times; those being measured 3 monthly have been assessed twice, and the parameters being assessed 6-monthly has been assessed once. Blue-green algae sampling has been undertaken on 12 occasions. Bi-monthly reports have been submitted for all wetlands (reports are 6-weekly for Lake Bonney) to SAMDBNRMB to detail the various sampling period’s findings.

"May 2007".Project Number: Ecological Survey and ‘Rapid Assessment’ Surveys for Drought Water Recovery - M/BUS/218.MDFRC item.1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Water Saving Through Wetland Drying: Review of Environmental Factors Back Creek and Tumudgery Creek).Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was contracted by the New South Wales Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to undertake flora, fauna and site assessments of seven wetlands identified as potential sites for water saving. The study area is in the Lower Murray River Catchment, stretching along the Murray River from below Lake Hume to upstream of the Yarrawonga Weir. This report contains the following information: Flora and fauna assessments (microfauna, macrophytes and birds), with particular interest in threatened species, populations and/or ecological communities; 7-part test for all threatened species, populations and ecological communities identified (including fish); and Site assessment for potential adverse impacts (e.g. potential for acidification) and recommend options to ameliorate potential impacts. Site assessments were undertaken from Monday 8th to Thursday 11th January 2007. The wetlands were assessed by traversing as much of the perimeter as practical, identifying the range of flora and fauna (microfauna, macrophytes and birds) within the study area. The weather conditions experienced during the field investigation were clear skies, temperatures ranging from 28°C to 43°C, with wind conditions ranging from calm to moderate breezes. The seven wetlands assessed were: Wetland Name Identifier*; Cooks Lagoon 8212; Quatt Quatta Lagoon 7413; Barrens Big Lagoon 7410; Chick Logie East Lagoon 7369; Chick Logie Lagoon 7339; Snake Island Lagoon 7312; Croppers Lagoon 7804. *Identifier refers to the Murray Wetlands Working Group’s wetland database. The survey methods employed during these assessments were: Direct observation of any flora or fauna species within or adjacent to the site; Water quality was tested with a Hydrolab, variables measured included water temperature (°C), conductivity (μs/cm), dissolved oxygen (mg/L), pH and turbidity (NTU); Observations were made of the distribution and presence of woody debris (aquatic and riparian zones), which may act as potential habitat for fish, birds and other animals; Diurnal area searches for bird species were employed. This involved visually searching the study sites from multiple locations around each wetland, including both the aquatic and riparian zones. All birds observed (seen or heard) were identified to establish species diversity; Indirect observations of scats and tracks were recorded to identify the presence of animals within the study area; Active search of both the aquatic and riparian zones was conducted to identify plant species and were recorded to establish species diversity; Sediment testing was determined from using Baldwin’s (2006) Decision Support Tool and from previous surveys by Baldwin 2006 and Hall et al 2006; NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) surveyed all wetlands for fish; and A desk top study to locate past surveys of these wetlands to identify threatened species in the region.This study by design was a brief and preliminary site assessment. Therefore no trapping, spotlighting or vegetation quadrat sampling techniques were used. Given the timing of the survey, the daily temperatures and due to current drought conditions, it is possible species were overlooked, particularly vegetation which usually flowers in spring and may not be identifiable in the absence of flowers or seeds, also birds who take refuge in vegetation during high temperature days. Data obtained has been used to compile a list of species that could potentially occur in the area. The data obtained from these surveys is not exhaustive in terms of sampling and should be viewed as an indication of species diversity, representing only a small percentage of what the total species pool could be present seasonally or permanently in the study area. The Lower Murray River Catchment, incorporating the natural drainage system of creeks, rivers, associated lagoons, billabongs and lakes below Lake Hume is listed as an endangered aquatic community under NSW legislation, Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act). Listing of this ecological community gives all native fish and invertebrate species within its boundaries the protected status of endangered species, therefore any potential impacts on these communities must be considered during any development process. There is potential for three other endangered ecological communities, as listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) as amended by Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004 to occur within the region, (i) White Box, Yellow Box, Blakely's Red Gum Woodland; (ii) Inland Grey Box Woodland in the Riverina, NSW South Western Slopes, Cobar Peneplain, Nandewar and Brigalow Belt South Bioregions; and (iii) Myall Woodland in the Darling Riverine Plains, Brigalow Belt South, Cobar Peneplain, Murray-Darling Depression, Riverina and NSW South Western Slopes bioregions. As the proposal is likely to have a significant effect on threatened species, populations or ecological communities, factors covered in the 7-part test in accordance with the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 No. 203 Part 1 Section 5A(2), were considered. All vulnerable and threatened species, populations and communities as listed under the FM Act and TSC Act that were either observed to occur, recorded to previously have occurred or have a former distribution range in the region were included in this test.A range of migratory birds included in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) are listed under international conventions. Many of these migratory birds are often observed in the vicinity of inland waters within Australia, including the Murray River floodplains. An assessment on the guidelines of significance for these bird species was completed for the following international conventions: Chinese-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA); Japanese-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA); Republic of Korea-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA); and Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals – Bonn, 1979 (CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention. These agreements state each signatory will strive to protect birds listed, conserving or restoring habitat areas, mitigating obstacles and controlling other factors that might impede migration. As listed under the EPBC Act, two endangered ecological communities potentially occur in the region, the Buloke Woodlands of the Riverina and Murray-Darling Depression Bioregions and White Box-Yellow Box-Blakely's Red Gum Grassy Woodland and Derived Native Grassland. A significant criteria assessment has been completed for these communities in accordance with PART 3, Subdivision C (18) of the EPBC Act. Based on the site assessment and desk top study: The Lower Murray River Catchment, in which all seven wetlands occur, is listed as an endangered ecological community. Modifications to hydrological regimes within these wetlands will lead to changes in the structure of the community and potentially result in the loss of species; Three wetlands were identified to defiantly contain sulfidic sediments, Cooks Lagoon, Quatt Quatta Lagoon and Croppers Lagoon. On drying and re-wetting these lagoons there is a high risk these wetlands will become acidified, cause deoxygenation of the water column and pose aesthetic concerns, resulting in substantial changes to the habitat structure of associated communities. These impacts potentially will degrade habitat areas, resulting in weed invasion by acid tolerant plant species, reducing aquatic food resources, reducing the migration potential of fish and impacting on survival and growth rates of a range of aquatic species and health of surrounding vegetation; Four wetlands were identified to possibly contain sulfidic sediments, Big Barren Lagoon, Chick Logie East Lagoon, Chick Logie Lagoon and Snake Island Lagoon. The rating of possibly is at the lower end of the risk rating matrix for wetlands in relation to sulfidic sediments, although are not identified to be clear or at a low risk. There is still the possibility that these wetlands will become acidified after a drying and re-wetting regime; 11 bird species listed in international conventions either have been observed or potentially use the wetlands while migrating. Each migratory bird species considered have extensive ranges within the region and each species has a wide distribution of potential habitat throughout the region.19 vulnerable bird species and two endangered as listed under the TSC Act either have been observed, potentially use or have former distribution in the habitat areas within these wetlands. Woodland birds can tolerate fluctuating water levels as long as food resources, suitable habitat and alternate water sources are not impacted on; 14 native fish species were recorded to be present during recent surveys. Of these, five are listed as threatened under the FM Act and/or three under the EPBC Act. The proposal has the potential to disturb, remove or modify habitat important to native fish and impact on the movements of native fish, potentially stranding them in the drying wetlands; Two vulnerable plant species have distribution in the region. One of these species habitat is not related to wetlands while the other is dependant on wetlands for all parts of its life cycle; There is potential for the Inland Grey Box Woodland Endangered Ecological Community, Myall Woodland in the Darling Riverine Plains, Brigalow Belt South, Cobar Peneplain, Murray-Darling Depression, Riverina and NSW South Western Slopes bioregions and the White Box, Yellow Box, Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland to occur in

"March 2007".Project Number: Ecological Survey and ‘Rapid Assessment’ Surveys for Drought Water Recovery - M/BUS/218.MDFRC item.1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Water Saving Through Wetland Drying: Review of Environmental Factors - Albury to Corowa).Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) was contracted by the Department of Natural Resources (NSW) to undertake flora, fauna and site assessments of two wetlands that had been identified as potential sites for water saving. The study area is in the Lower Murray River Catchment on the Edward-Wakool River system near Deniliquin. This report contains the following information: Flora and fauna assessments (microfauna, macrophytes and birds), with particular interest in threatened species, populations and/or ecological communities; 7-part test for all threatened species, populations and ecological communities identified (including fish); and Site assessment for potential adverse impacts (e.g. potential for acidification) and recommend options to ameliorate potential impacts. A site assessment was undertaken on 6th March 2007 of the two wetlands, Back Creek and Tumudgery Creek. The wetlands were assessed by traversing as much of the perimeter as practical, identifying the range of flora and fauna (microfauna, macrophytes and birds) within the study area. The weather conditions experienced during the field investigation were clear skies, temperature of 30°C and light winds. The survey methods employed during these assessments were: • Direct observation of any flora or fauna species within or adjacent to the site; Water quality was tested with a Hydrolab, variables measured included water temperature (°C), conductivity (µs/cm), dissolved oxygen (mg/L), pH and turbidity (NTU); Observations were made of the distribution and presence of woody debris (aquatic and riparian zones), which may act as potential habitat for fish, birds and other animals; Diurnal area searches for bird species were employed. This involved visually searching the study sites from multiple locations around each wetland, including both the aquatic and riparian zones. All birds observed (seen or heard) were identified to establish species diversity; Indirect observations of scats and tracks were recorded to identify the presence of animals within the study area; Active search of both the aquatic and riparian zones was conducted to identify plant species and were recorded to establish species diversity; Sediment testing was completed using Baldwin’s (2006) Decision Support Tool; NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) surveyed both wetlands for fish; and A desk top study to locate past surveys of these wetlands to identify threatened species in the region.This study by design was a brief and preliminary site assessment. Therefore no trapping, spotlighting or vegetation quadrat sampling techniques were used. Given the timing of the survey, early autumn, and due to current drought conditions, it is possible species were overlooked, particularly vegetation which usually flowers in summer or spring and may not be identifiable in the absence of flowers or seeds. Data obtained has been used to compile a list of species that could potentially occur in the area. The data obtained from these surveys is not exhaustive in terms of sampling and should be viewed as an indication of species diversity, representing only a small percentage of what the total species pool could be present seasonally or permanently in the study area. This report has addressed issues with reference to the provisions and requirements of the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), the New South Wales Fisheries Management Act 1994 (FM Act), the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) as amended by the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 (TSC Act) and Threatened Species Legislation Amendment Act 2004. Under these Acts various factors need to be considered in deciding whether the proposed actions are likely to have a significant impact on threatened species, populations, ecological communities or their habitat. An assessment of significance, as outlined in the EP&A Act, otherwise known as the 7-part test, is required for all identified threatened species, populations and ecological communities as listed under the FM Act or the TSC Act. Only species listed as threatened under either the FM Act or TSC Act identified within the study region have undertaken further assessment. Other species not listed on these Acts observed or known distribution is within the study area have been included in the report to signify species diversity. A range of migratory birds included in the EBPC Act are listed under international conventions. Many of these are often observed in the vicinity of inland waters within Australia, including the study region. International conventions discussed include: Chinese-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA); Japanese-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA); Republic of Korea-Australian Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA); and Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals – Bonn, 1979 (CMS), also known as the Bonn convention. These agreements state each signatory will strive to protect birds listed, conserving or restoring habitat areas, mitigating obstacles and controlling other factors that might impede migration.Based on the site assessment and desk top study: 15 bird species listed in the international conventions either have been observed or potentially use the wetlands while migrating. Each migratory bird species considered have extensive ranges within the region and each species has a wide distribution of potential habitat throughout the region. Therefore it could be considered no significant area of known habitat for migratory bird species is likely to be removed as a result of the proposed action; Six native fish species were recorded to be present during recent surveys. An additional four native fish species, three threatened and one endangered population, have former distribution within the region; The proposal does have the potential to disturb, remove or modify habitat important to native fish and impact on the movements of native fish. However, due to current drought conditions and as long as both regulators are managed to allow water flow back into the wetland during surplus flows, the direct and indirect impact on the quality of habitat is unlikely to affect the presence of these species in the long term. Short term impacts will see fish species that have not managed to escape the drying wetland to become stranded. As the wetlands are naturally drying, under drought conditions this stranding without barriers potentially would occur naturally; An endangered invertebrate specie has former distribution in the region. This specie with limited dispersal abilities, previously has inhabited river systems as well as irrigation drain pipes in NSW, although was not observed during recent surveys; An endangered amphibian specie has a known distribution in the region. This specie is dependant on both aquatic and terrestrial habitat areas; Distributions of three endangered and 13 vulnerable woodland birds occur within the region and are considered to have an extensive range within the region. Woodland birds can tolerate fluctuating water levels as long as food resources, suitable habitat and alternate water sources are not impacted on; One endangered and four vulnerable waterbirds have distribution within the region.These wetlands are already suffering forms of degradation due to drought conditions. As no known significant habitat areas are present at these wetlands for these waterbirds, it can be considered no known habitat is likely to be removed as a result of the proposed actions, as long as management considers a re-wetting phase when surplus water flows become available; Two vulnerable plant species, both terrestrial forbs, have been recorded in the region. These species habitat is not related to, or dependant on wetlands; Two endangered and one vulnerable mammal species have been recorded in the region. Mammals may be considered dependant on wetlands as they require access to water, none of these threatened mammals recorded in the region spend their entire life cycle in wetland habitats; The lower Murray River in which these two wetlands occur is listed as an endangered ecological community. Modifications to hydrological regimes within these two wetlands will lead to changes in the structure of the community and potentially result in the loss of species. However, this will be balanced by re-instating a wetting cycle when surplus water is available, this may benefit some species; There is potential for the Inland Grey Box Woodland Endangered Ecological Community (final determination under the TSC Act made on 27th April 2007) and the Buloke Woodlands Ecological Community of the Riverina and Murray-Darling Depression Bioregions (EPBC Act) to occur at these wetlands. These communities’ are characterised by a number of plant species and are important habitat areas for many fauna species. Modification to the hydrological regimes within these two wetlands is unlikely to impact on these communities; The landscape surrounding the wetlands is well represented with forests, nature reserves, rivers and creek systems. Due to widespread drought conditions across most of the State, these areas are suffering various forms of degradation. The drying of wetlands during these drought conditions is likely to add further stress to other wetlands, creeks and rivers, through an increase in abundance of species looking for alternative water sources and habitat. • In both wetlands the risk of sulfidic sediments occurring is low. On re-wetting it is unlikely that either wetland will become acidified It is recommended the following points be considered to minimise disturb

"March 2008".Project Number: Implications of pumping water on the ecology of Hattah Lakes - M/BUS/210.MDFRC item.1 of 2 reports associated with project see (Implications of pumping water on the ecology of Hattah Lakes).The Hattah-Kulkyne Lakes is one of six Living Murray icon sites, located in Hattah-Kulkyne National park in the north west of Victoria. The lakes complex consists of 18 freshwater lakes, 12 of which are Ramsar listed. These lakes periodically fill during high flow events fed by Chalka Creek, an anabranch of the Murray River. The lakes and surrounds contain significant river red gum communities and support a diverse range of waterfowl, native fish and invertebrates during wet phases, making them a significant ecological asset. River regulation and drought have threatened the values of the Hattah Lakes. In particular, the absence of overbank flooding since 2000 led to serious concern regarding the health of river red gum communities. This prompted the delivery of environmental water into the Hattah Lakes from the Murray River as an emergency measure to maintain existing river red gum communities. Approximately 25GL of water was pumped and ponded in Chalka Creek and nine lakes from a series of four pumping events undertaken between April 2005 and December 2006. The Murray Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) engaged the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC) and EPA Victoria to monitor the ecological response of the lakes to pumping and ponding for the 2006/07 period. The project aimed to determine whether pumping is a viable option to meet The Living Murray objectives. The study specifically focused on (i) assessing the response of river red gum condition to the flooding, (ii) identifying water quality threats that may prevent diverse aquatic ecosystems from developing and (iii) monitoring the response of fish, invertebrates and macrophytes by surveying newly filled lakes and those filled for over one year. Key findings from this study are: River red gum trees at inundated lakes (Lakes Mournpall and Brockie) improved their condition (measured as crown density) to a significantly greater degree than at a control lake (Lake Yelwell) that did not receive pumped water. This increase in tree condition is attributed to the pumped watering event. In addition, there was an increase in tree condition at the control lake (to a lesser extent than for the lakes receiving water) and this is attributed to above average rainfall during the study period. Due to a build up of organic matter loads on dry lakebeds, some lakes experienced a brief period of low dissolved oxygen following inundation. Extensive algal blooms also developed over summer, causing large diel fluctuations in dissolved oxygen and pH. These factors were identified as being potential threats to the development of aquatic communities, particularly for macrophyte establishment. An abundant and relatively diverse native fish community has developed within the Hattah Lakes. A total of 16,291 fish representing six native and two exotic fish species were sampled from six lakes and Chalka Creek. Because the lakes were completely dry prior to the first pumping event in April 2005, this community has developed from fish larvae, eggs or juveniles pumped into the lakes. The sampling of only two exotic fish species (goldfish and only one common carp) demonstrates that pumping is a filter upon the fish community, with common carp and eastern gambusia in particular being excluded with this water delivery mode. Macrophyte seed bank trials demonstrated that there is a high potential for diverse native macrophyte communities to develop at most lakes and therefore achieve the objectives listed in the Hattah Lakes Environmental Management Plan. Macrophytes were able to establish on the lakebeds under the managed flooding regime, although with varying levels of success between lakes. A total of 115 macrophyte taxa belonging to 34 families were identified. Distinct macrophyte communities occurred at each studied lake. The highest abundance and diversity of macrophytes occurred at elevations +30 and +60cm above the waterline. These elevations occurred in areas that were initially inundated following managed flooding but were exposed as lake water levels lowered. Aquatic macrophyte establishment at or below the waterline was initially quite poor at most lakes, however, macrophyte cover increased over the sampling period. It is difficult to ascertain whether the patterns in macrophyte development are a function of water quality (e.g. low dissolved oxygen, high turbidity) or the time since inundation. Despite some water quality concerns (e.g. blue-green algal blooms), pumping and ponding allowed diverse and abundant macroinvertebrate and zooplankton communities to develop and be sustained in the longer term, which will aid in achieving The Living Murray objectives. Sediment assessments at eight lakes and Chalka Creek showed a low risk of sulfidic sediments posing a management problem within the Hattah Lakes system. Overall, the managed flooding event achieved by the pumping and ponding of water has been a successful management intervention for improving river red gum health and allowing diverse aquatic ecosystems to develop at the Hattah Lakes icon site. In the current drought period, this has created a productive wetland system that is providing important ecosystem services as a drought refuge. The lake ecosystems are dynamic and both water quality and the condition and composition of biological communities will continue to change as the lakes dry. Intervention monitoring will occur in 2007/08 for continued investigation of river red gums, lakebed macrophytes, fish and some water quality variables. This additional intervention monitoring will complement the existing data by allowing the communities within the Hattah Lakes system to be monitored over a longer term. In the likely absence of seasonal flooding or further pumping of environmental water at the Hattah Lakes in 2007/08, this monitoring will occur as the lakes undergo their drying phase Macroinvertebrate have life histories linked to the natural flow regime and the loss of this will interfere with their lifecycle and habitat requirements.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This project, is one of five research themes that make up MMCP. This research theme examined the impacts infrastructure has on our waterways, to the dispersal ability of plants and their seeds.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy. Vegetation dispersal is one of five themes that make up MMCP. This study examined the impacts infrastructure has on our waterways, to the dispersal ability of plants and their seeds.

One way to investigate seedling establishment under controlled (or partially controlled) conditions isthrough mesocosm studies. Mesocosm studies provide a powerful means of quantifying causalrelationships in a controlled environment. This study will focus on the responses of seedlings to asequence of flooding and drying treatments. Work will be undertaken withinexperimental/laboratory set-ups, so there will be no specific work undertaken at MDB (Murray–Darling Basin) EWKR research sites.Four woody floodplain species, River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh.), Black Box(Eucalyptus largiflorens F.Muell.) and Coolibah (Eucalyptus coolabah Blakely & Jacobs), and onenative floodplain shrub species, Tangled Lignum (Duma florulenta Meissner), were identified as thekey target species (Burns & Gawne 2014). Seedling-specific literature reviews were undertaken toassess and collate existing information about the recruitment of seedlings of the four key species(Durant et al. 2016). The information collated from the literature review, as well as expertdiscussions and input through workshops, teleconferences and emails, forms the basis of thisexperimental design.The experiment will focus on addressing the primary question:‘What is the relationship between flow parameters such as duration, frequency and interflood-dryperiod (sequential, cumulative events) and establishment?’

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This project, is one of five research themes that make up MMCP. This research theme investigated the biofilm succession patterns and ecosystem dynamics in the Edward-Wakool River system.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to weir pool manipulation. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to support postgraduate students to carry out high-quality research at a reasonable cost and make an important contribution to the development of aquatic research capability.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This project, is one of five research themes that make up MMCP. This research theme examines the importance of macroinvertebrates to riverine food webs.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to connectivity between water dependent ecosystems. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to the value of eDNA. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.

The ‘Recruitment of Long-lived Floodplain Vegetation’ component of the MDB EWKR Vegetation Theme aims to increase our understanding of how recruitment and seedling establishment occurs in response to varying watering regimes. Four woody floodplain species, River Red Gum, Black Box, Tangled Lignum and Coolibah, were identified as key target species within the Murray–Darling Basin to investigate the drivers of sustainable populations within four field-based research sites, Upper Murray, Lower Murray, Macquarie Marshes and the Lower Balonne floodplain.Species-specific literature reviews where undertaken to assess and collate existing information available about the recruitment and establishment of seedlings. This review focused on understanding how flow and non-flow drivers influence recruitment and seedling establishment responses and the response to water regimes over multi-year timeframes for the key target species.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to water quality. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC) in 2017, in relation to a hypoxic blackwater event that occurred in 2016. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering StrategyConference paper presented at the Australian Society for Limnology Conference, University of Technology Sydney, 24-28 September 2017. The unimpeded movement of seeds and other propagules within riverine networks is believed to be important in maintaining regional diversity. Changes in flow regimes, or hydrological connectivity, are therefore likely to significantly impact the distribution of aquatic and riparian plants. Changed connectivity may occur through the disconnection of components of the landscape caused by changes in flow regime, construction of barriers that physically impede dispersal, and the physical removal of riparian plants. In this study we investigate the influence that the use of infrastructure (pumps/levees) have on the movement of seeds from the Murray River into adjoining wetlands. Results demonstrate that pumping of water into wetlands appears to have filtering effect with less seeds entering the wetland compared to what is present in the main river channel.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to mitigating against plant invasions (e.g. weeds). The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.This synthesis paper is a response to a question poised by the Murray-Darling Basin Officials Committee (BOC), in relation to influencing management of environmental watering through science. The objectives of this theme within the MMCP is to help the BOC address specific questions as they arise. These question will have relevance to the on-going management of Basin Assets.

MMCP Collaboration (MMCP) is a project supported by the Joint State Governments and the Murray-Darling Basin Authority to generate and adopt freshwater ecological knowledge through collaboration, to maintain research capability and contribute supporting science to underpin the Basin-Wide Watering Strategy.