Challenges for the KCA and Friends
Fulfilling
the aims of the KCA,
"to Clean, Preserve and Restore the Kananook Creek and its environs"
has proven to be a path fraught with challenges. Nevertheless, many of those
challenges have been and can be overcome with increased public awareness and
a little help from our friends and neighbours.
Perennial challenges are detailed below.
| Weeds | Erosion | Pollution |
Weeds
Weed
invasion is a major threat to the viability of our natural reserves. In addition
to declared noxious weeds, some garden plants may also become invasive. Unfortunately,
some nurseries still stock these nuisance plants.
With few natural pests or diseases to control them, they compete for light, water and space and may quickly overcome indigenous species.
Weed infestation can occur in a number of ways:
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Seeds may be spread by birds, animals, humans, insects, winds and rain.
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Dumped garden rubbish is a major culprit; plants can take root and reestablish themselves.
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Plants in properties adjoining the reserves may 'escape' and take hold.
Erosion
At its narrowest point, the KCA Reserve is just a few metres wide. As a result,
minor disturbances to the vegetation can result in significant damage. For
this reason, the Kananook Trail is intended for walkers not cyclists. By adhering
to the trails, walkers are helping to minimize traffic damage.
Fluctuating water flows, cleared banks, water craft use, increased water salinity
(and therefore changes in bank vegetation) are contributing factors to the
creek bank erosion that has occurred. A number of remedial strategies have
been trialled, in particular revegetation.
Pollution
Littering and rubbish dumping are visible and unsightly pollutants that can
prove hazardous for our native fauna, (including humans of course). Much of
the rubbish in the creek arrives via the stormwater system. Some of this rubbish
then find its way into Port Phillip Bay.
A number of litter trapping devices have been installed at storm water outlets
in an effort to rectify this problem. Unfortunately, it is a problem best
addressed at its source.
Other less visible but equally hazardous pollutants are also transported by
way of the storm water system. Urban run-off remains a formidable obstacle
to improved water quality in the creek. Oil, petrol, detergents, fertilizers,
chemicals; every substance tipped down the sink, washed from the road or hosed
from the footpath is likely to end up in our waterways.
With just a little extra vigilance, we can all help to clean, preserve and restore the Kananook!
| How to be a Friend of Kananook Creek from
the comfort of your home! Click Here for More Tips |
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