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Clarence River estuary saltmarsh sea level rise adaptation and planning

The Clarence saltmarsh project is an 18 month project funded by Community Coastcare (CfOC) through the Australian Government Natural Heritage Trust.

The project aims to map the location of saltmarsh in the Clarence estuary and will attempt to survey all areas above one hectare in size. Access to sites is dependant on approval gained from landholders and managers. The project will determine issues such as weeds, rubbish, drainage, erosion and disturbance and survey the topography of the saltmarsh and surrounding areas to determine how the vegetation relates to elevation change. From the data collected it should be possible to determine how saltmarsh will adapt and migrate with sea level change from climate change and if new areas need to be reserved. The project will also identify areas which could benefit from on ground works, which may include fencing, weed control, rubbish removal, drainage modification or plantings. 

Photo: Saltmarsh ecotone showing the gradation from salt-tolerant to freshwater plants (Alan Cibilic)

Photo: Typical saltwater couch saltmarsh near Yamba (Alan Cibilic)

For more information please contact WetlandCare Australia, email Alan Cibilic alancibilic@wetlandcare.com.au or Garry Owers garryowers@wetlandcare.com.au  or phone 02 6682 6169.