Trees removed along the Rushworth to Murchison Rail Trail have been donated to the Waranga Basin Fish Habitat project, creating homes for small fish.
Works have commenced on the Rushworth to Murchison Rail Trail that will see development of 11 kilometres of trail between Rushworth and Chanel Inlet Road, including repairs to six bridges.
As part of the process, appointed local contractor Arbor Dynamics was engaged to undertake tree removals along the new trail, with the main head of the trees used in the Habitat project for small fish including 750,000 golden perch fingerlings that will be stocked by the Victorian Fisheries Authority.
Campaspe Shire Mayor, Cr Rob Amos said it's great to be able to reuse the trees for a worthy project.
"We're glad that we have been able to donate trees that needed to be cleared to begin construction on the trail and it's another step in the right direction for improving the fish habitat at Waranga Basin.
"Tenders are now open for the construction of the asphalt path works, and soon we'll be tendering for bridge repairs and gravel path construction.
"It's an exciting project and we are looking forward to its completion in 2024," Cr Amos added.
The trail will provide economic, recreational and social benefits for local communities, as well as providing regional growth as part of a larger Rail Trail network. The project aims to take advantage of the natural attractions of the area and improve the connectivity and livability of local communities.