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Improving water quality

The Maroochy River pilot will provide an integrated and comprehensive approach to water quality improvement that is measurable and which can be used as a demonstration site to assist in furthering improvements in the Shire’s waterways. The proposed pilot project that was presented to Council comprises three interrelated components.

These are site selection, six strategic studies that will inform the pilot and future decision making, and eight on the ground initiatives to improve water quality. The strategic study component covers the areas of:

• Integrated water quality strategy – creating partnerships within Council and the community.
• Water sensitive urban design – managing stormwater quality and quantity in urban areas.
• Water quantity, land use and associated water quality impacts study.
• Maroochy River water quality monitoring – regular monitoring of the river and sub-catchment.
• Litter “hot spot” analysis and action.

The eight on the ground operation projects are proposed for the pilot that will deal specifically with practical actions to improve water quality in the Maroochy River and guide the way for best practice catchment management. The on the ground operational projects include:

• riparian rehabilitation
• funding an education officer and program
• establishing stormwater action teams
• a review of septic tanks
• special response team to assess development applications
• review and remediation of Council infrastructure
• Maroochy Water Services inflow and infiltration program
• using alum at sewage treatment plants to reduce the levels of phosphorous in the effluent.

An important focus of the on the ground initiatives, and the overall approach to improving the long term health of the Maroochy River, will be developing a strong partnership with the community, stakeholders and catchment care groups.

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