A new constructed wetland sitting beside The Lakes Way in south Forster is providing an effective filter for urban run-off entering Wallis Lake.
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At the same time, the wetland is helping protect water quality in one of town’s most important natural assets.
As the wetland was being constructed, theories swirled around the community about exactly what was happening.
Gossip ranged from a holding pond to a home for the ducks.
Although it's not immediately obvious, the true purpose of the wetland is part of MidCoast Council's commitment to improving the health of local catchments.
"The Arlington Place Wetland was constructed thanks to funding from the NSW Government's Estuary Management Program and matching funds from council's environmental special rate,” natural systems manager, Gerard Tuckerman said.
"The wetland is designed to remove sediment and filter nutrients from urban run-off prior to discharge into the lake, and it receives stormwater inflow from 5.5 hectares of the surrounding urban area.
"This stormwater previously drained untreated into Pipers Bay.”
The wetland construction incorporates design features of a water quality garden.
As water flows into the system from Arlington Place, sediment settles into the bottom of a basin while the clear water flows into the wetland pond.
The wetland plants are specifically chosen for their ability to remove nutrients, small sediment and other pollutants from the water – and they also provide habitat for native animals.
The cleaned water then flows via outlets into natural watercourses (Dunns Creek) and finally into Wallis Lake.
And in times of high rainfall, excess water is designed to overflow into a vegetated bypass into the stormwater system.
The wetland is a pleasant spot for a walk (but not safe for swimming).
Planned interpretative signage, will include a diagram showing how the system works
The project is part of council's catchment management plan, designed to improve the water quality in lakes and rivers for environmental protection, aquaculture and recreational enjoyment.
For more information on catchment management plans across the region, visit the website at midcoast.nsw.gov.au (tip: search catchment).
