Planting for the future of wetlands

Conservation Volunteers Australia project officer Leah Edwards. (Louisa Jones) 415700_06

Sparrovale Wetlands has undergone a makeover, with new native plants and trees planted during a World Environment Day – Planting for Change event.

Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) partnered with Geelong City Council for the Sparrovale Wetland Restoration Project in Charlemont, with the event taking place on Wednesday, June 26, from 11am to 2pm.

CVA project officer Leah Edwards said the community was invited to participate in the tree-planting day to help restore the wetland, which was “vital for migratory bird species“.

“Together with the local community, we aim to plant each seedling and contribute to the rejuvenation of our degrading wetland ecosystems,” she said.

“Lake Connewarre, hosts an array of bird species and unique biodiversity, which we work to protect during our volunteering events and Sparrovale is a significant part of this lake.”

Ms Edwards said native seedlings were planted in the area to offer food and habitat for wildlife and that she loved seeing the excitement tree planting generated.

“At CVA, we believe that individuals making everyday actions are the most powerful contributors to the future of our environments,” she said.

“These events are excellent for the community to spend time in nature and connect with like-minded individuals, which is something we don’t get enough of in our current way of living.

“When we contribute to our local environments by planting trees, weeding invasive species, collecting litter, or attending educational workshops, we become more connected and aware of our surroundings.”

Sparrovale Wetlands is a vital ecosystem connected to Lake Connewarre, which is an internationally significant RAMSAR site.