A section of Deep Creek has been filled in a renewed effort to save the endangered Yarra Pygmy Perch.
Melbourne Water and Greater Western Water have come together in this joint operation to help save the freshwater fish.
The Yarra Pygmy Perch faced near-extinction during the millennium drought, with surviving populations now mostly confined to a few dams and drought refuges.
Typically, these fish reach refuges through groundwater-connected pools. However, Melbourne Water ecologists found no flowing water and almost dry pools at the Musteys Bridge and Doggetts Bridge sites.
Higher temperatures, increased evaporation and reduced stream flows have impacted Deep Creek’s health, which hasn’t had significant water flow since November last year.
Last summer was the driest since 2013-14 and the fourth warmest since 1910, following a dry spring that caused stream flows across to drop 43 per cent below the 30-year average.
“The creek is home to the last two known populations of this rare fish in Melbourne, and as far east as they can be found,” said Melbourne Water head of waterway and catchment services north west Vix Penko.
“In a drying climate, our water corporations have a responsibility to balance the needs of customers with sustaining native animal habitat and maintaining biodiversity.”
Greater Western Water staff collaborated with Melbourne Water ecologists to come up with a plan to rewater the creek and protect the Yarra Pygmy Perch.
Water was transported from Greater Western Water’s facility to the creek in two Melbourne Water trucks, ensuring it was filtered to prevent the introduction of aquatic pests.
“When we received the call from Melbourne Water, we were more than happy to help with this operation,” said Greater Western Water general manager of operations and delivery solutions Jodie Hallam.
“Caring for Country is one of our key pillars of our 2030 strategy and we’re committed to improving the health of the Maribyrnong River network and the flora and fauna that benefit from it, including the rare Yarra Pygmy Perch.”
