A constructed wetland project in Far North Queensland is more effectively improving quality of the water heading out to the Great Barrier Reef thanks to its involvement with Tropical Water Quality Hub research.
Dr Faye Falco-Mammone from Johnstone Region Landcare Group (JRLC) sought the advice of the Tropical Water Quality Hub in planning the Tully Constructed Wetland Project, south of Cairns. “The NESP research has helped us dramatically in understanding what plants to use, the ecology in the water, how the plants will react and future management of the wetland,” she said. “It’s been very helpful. We will certainly be continuing our work (with the Tropical Water Quality Hub).” Wetlands are a vital component of the ecosystems of both the Wet Tropics and Great Barrier Reef, providing habitat for many species and water quality benefits. Dr Nathan Waltham at James Cook University’s TropWATER facility has been evaluating the effectiveness of wetland remediation projects in the Great Barrier Reef catchment under a Tropical Water Quality Hub project.