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Run-Off Becomes Resource In Bid To Save Gippsland LakesOver 500 dairy farms across Gippsland have been surveyed over the past two years to reduce levels of animal waste flowing into the region’s waterways and lakes. By Department of Primary Industries - 1st June 2004 - Back to News The three year project, which is funded under the Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Action Plan, aims for the majority of dairy farms in Gippsland to have best practice effluent management in place by 2005.
The surveys are being carried out by EPA Victoria, with follow up support from the Department of Primary Industries.
EPA Gippsland regional manager David Mackenzie said that while most farms have been found to have effluent management systems in place, around one third are poorly managed or maintained.
"We can no longer allow animal waste and other nutrients to run off farms," says Mr Mackenzie.
"Effluent is a resource, not a waste product. Keeping it on the farm is not only good for the hip pocket, but good for the environment too.
"Unfortunately, phosphorous is a major contributor to algal blooms. Every kilogram of phosphorous kept on the farm as a fertiliser is one less kilogram that could end up in the Gippsland lakes," Mr Mackenzie added.
As well as raising awareness about the benefits of dairy effluent management, Mr Mackenzie said that the surveys would determine the level of compliance with State Environment Protection Policies.
"Overall, we can be pleased with the way we are managing effluent in a more sustainable way across Gippsland, but we need to keep improving," said Mr Mackenzie.
The Gippsland Lakes Future Directions and Action Plan aims to reduce nutrient levels entering the Lakes by 40 per cent by 2022.
The Lakes catchment spans nearly 10 per cent of Victoria with seven major rivers feeding the iconic lake system.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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