SRE Grant works delivered by Renmark Irrigation Trust

The Sustaining Riverland Environments (SRE) program is excited to announce the completion of 5 environmental watering structure upgrades that will improve water flow between Bookmark Creek and adjacent wetland complexes. The completion marks a key milestone in the program’s effort to restore and enhance local ecosystems.

Installation of the structures was funded under a SRE program grant, and delivered by the Renmark Irrigation Trust, and represents a positive step forward in fostering ecological resilience in the region.

The newly installed structures improve connectivity between Bookmark Creek and the surrounding floodplains and wetlands, addressing identified challenges in water management. Unlike the previous single-pipe flap valve system, that only allowed water to flow one way during high creek flows, these advanced structures feature 2-way pipes. This enables high creek flows to reach the wetlands while also allowing controlled environmental watering to return to the creek (return flows), ensuring ecological benefits for a broader range of habitats.

The area’s floodplain and wetland sites are home to diverse plant and animal species, many of which rely on these ecosystems for their survival. These sites receive environmental water under a partnership with the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH), aimed at providing ecological benefits for vegetation and wildlife.

The works along Bookmark Creek are part of a broader vision by the Renmark Irrigation Trust to restore natural hydrology and improve the environmental health of this vital area. The Trust is looking forward to the completion of the SRE Bookmark Creek construction works, and the improved native fish habitat and connection between the creek and wetlands they will provide.