MidCoast Council has begun an erosion and sediment control education program and is asking anyone involved in building and construction to complete a two-minute, anonymous survey.
Sediment runoff reduces water quality and can impact on industries such as oyster farming and fishing as well as recreational users. It can also lead to public health issues.
"Preventing soil and sediment runoff from entering our lakes and rivers is critical to lake health and productivity," said Manager of Natural Systems, Gerard Tuckerman.
"Construction and building of all kinds can cause sediment runoff. As a community, we need to lift our game."
The waterways of the MidCoast are a huge part of why our area is such a great place to live. A recent audit identified the need for significant improvement in minimising erosion and management of sedimentation at many building and development sites.
The lack of adequate erosion control often becomes apparent with a heavy rainfall event.
Following flooding rainfall, the impact of sedimentation within our estuaries was reported in the 2020 Waterway Health Report Card, with several sites across the Manning River, Wallis
Lake and Smiths Lake estuaries showing a decrease in water clarity.
Before undertaking any building work, it is vital to plan how to limit soil erosion and sediment runoff.
All those involved in building and construction are invited to provide feedback about knowledge gaps and barriers. This includes anyone from owner builders to industry professionals.
Later in 2025 Council will be undertaking an inspection program across the region to check construction sites for appropriate erosion and sediment management measures.
"Now is a great opportunity to increase your understanding of erosion and sediment control practices. We'd love to hear from you so we can provide effective information and support to the community," said Mr Tuckerman.
