Council has endorsed the release of the Draft Blue Waters Lake Reserve master plan for public comment.
Blue Waters Lake Reserve is a unique wetland habitat in Ocean Grove, with its natural assets providing a peaceful oasis among about 100 surrounding private properties.
Councillor Jim Mason, of Bellarine Ward, said after 178 contributions and ideas from the community, the draft master plan sought to protect the reserve’s ecological and cultural values and further public use of the area.
We know the reserve is highly treasured, but we want to enhance its environmental and recreational features to make it an even better space for visitors and wildlife. The draft plan proposes improving the all-weather path and seating to increase access to nature, improving the water quality in the lake and increasing the area revegetated with local indigenous species.
The seven-hectare reserve supports a mix of native and introduced vegetation; is home to rare and threatened waterbirds; and is popular for passive recreation activities.
It is used for exercise, scenic walks and bird watching, with the grassed areas of the reserve providing space for gatherings beside the water.
The lake also has an important role in the Ocean Grove drainage network, filtering pollutants and nutrients from stormwater before it enters the Barwon River.
Cr Mason said the plan would inform Council’s long-term investment priorities and guide the future staging of works for the reserve.
Among the proposed work is the creation of an ephemeral wetland zone, to treat the inflowing stormwater. Managing the staged removal of the ageing Willow trees, and replacing them with new indigenous species will also maximise wildlife habitat in the reserve.
The Draft Blue Waters Lake Reserve master plan will be released for community engagement on Monday 30 May for a period of 60 days.
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