By Ian Beeck | posted on October 10, 2020
KATANNING’S Lake Ewlyamartup has a brighter future following major engineering works to manage its water quality.
At a recent event held at the lake, the working group that initiated improvements around the water body was acknowledged for its decade of commitment to the 100ha lake.
Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC) CEO Bruce Manning told attendees the Commission’s involvement began soon after the Lake Ewlyamartup Working Group called a 130-strong meeting in 2010 to initiate action on the condition of the lake.
Mr Manning said the working group and Katanning Landcare were the key bodies in the long-term rehabilitation of the lake.
“This is a great example of sustained community proactivity addressing long-term issues,” he said.
“Early in the process, following the good work of the working group and Katanning Landcare, we supported planning for engineering and recreation works that informed actions by local landholders and helped to leverage funds for user facilities at the lake.
“Following that ground-work, the State Government provided $3.7 million in funding, which aimed to improve the water quality of Lake Ewlyamartup and Lake Yealering.
“Those recent works around Lake Ewlyamartup have now established a flushing channel, road culvert and bund to help improve the lake’s water quality by removing saline water.
“Along with further improvements for users, the aim is to have a healthier water body that attracts visitors and encourages inland water recreation.”
The Lake Ewlyamartup Working Group was presented with gifts acknowledging its work to improve the lake.
Mr Manning also thanked the Wheatbelt Natural Resource Management, which was the project coordinator for the Living Lakes program.
