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Snowy River monitoring program tracks environmental flows to improve river health and protect vital ecosystems long-term

East Gippsland CMA is monitoring the Snowy River's estuary, fish habitats and environmental flows to improve river health and protect ecosystems, supported by community and government partnerships.

By news@gippsland - 29th June 2026 - Back to News

The Snowy River is a vital water resource that supports the region’s environmental, social and cultural values. Maintaining the river’s health through environmental releases and ongoing monitoring is essential. The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA) continues to work closely with the community and Government agencies to improve the flow and health of the Snowy River.

Members of the Snowy Advisory Committee on the Snowy River at recent community updates highlighted environmental water deliveries, wildlife monitoring and eDNA sampling supporting the Snowy River's long-term ecological health

Estuary monitoring continues

As part of the program, we are undertaking monitoring for assessing changes in estuarine vegetation over time, tracking fish presence, abundance and evidence of breeding events, evaluating the condition and availability of important fish habitat such as refuge pools, and undertaking ongoing monitoring of the estuary mouth.

"A trial conducted during late summer and autumn of 2025 monitored the estuary mouth in response to varying environmental water release volumes over specified time intervals. The monitoring captured changes in the estuary entrance in response to flow and other drivers, such as wave conditions. This provided valuable insights into how the estuary responds to these influences," said Bec Hemming, East Gippsland CMA’s CEO.

Remote solar-powered cameras have been installed at four locations across East Gippsland to capture daily images of estuary mouths, including one at Marlo. They provide the ability to record and track changes in estuary conditions which can be further analysed in conjunction with historical records, to understand long term trends.

Snowy River update

At a recent community event, the Snowy Advisory Committee and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) presented an overview of environmental water delivery to the Snowy River, along with updates on recent monitoring of frogs and platypus in the NSW reach and the utilisation of eDNA sampling in the upper catchment.

Snowy Hydro Limited also provided an overview of its operations and a summary of the Annual Water Operations Plan, including Trigger Flows delivered in 2025-26 and those planned for 2026-27.

"Together, these efforts reflect a strong commitment to protecting the long-term health of the Snowy River and ensuring it continues to support the communities, flora and fauna, and cultural values that depend on it," added Bec. The trials were funded by the Victorian Government as part of its commitment to protecting and restoring Victoria’s waterways and catchments.

Pictures from East Gippsland Water website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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  Local producers, makers and hospitality businesses across Bass Coast and South Gippsland are invited to Meet the Makers in Meeniyan on October 13, offering networking, collaboration and showcasing opportunities.
• Darren Chester joins Annabel Crabb for locally sourced Gippsland feast on ABC's Kitchen Cabinet series
  Darren Chester will feature on ABC's Kitchen Cabinet with Annabel Crabb, showcasing Gippsland produce and locally sourced food when the episode airs August 25.
• International partners visit Gippsland to explore energy diversification and regional development opportunities firsthand together
  One Gippsland hosted European partners for a five-day Gippsland visit, exploring energy diversification, regional development, workforce opportunities, infrastructure, agriculture and collaboration between Australian and European regions.
• Darren Chester congratulates Gippsland Agricultural Group on successful Gippsland Red Meat Conference in Sale
  Darren Chester has praised the successful Gippsland Red Meat Conference in Sale, highlighting industry collaboration, innovation, productivity and the need to reduce red tape for farming families.
• Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
  Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment.
• Major GRISS upgrade strengthens Gippsland’s premier indoor sports and events venue for future growth
  The upgraded Gippsland Regional Indoor Sports Stadium was officially opened, delivering modern facilities, supporting local jobs, and strengthening its role as Gippsland's leading venue for community sport and major events.