The University of NSW has identified several rehabilitation approaches for the Clybucca Wetland by using a modeling tool to predict how drainage management will control wetland depth and extent.

Transport for NSW had previously purchased a large area of low-lying land on the Collombatti-Clybucca floodplain. The purchases were made to offset the clearing of native vegetation for the Pacific Highway upgrade. This land includes the Mayes Swamp and Doughboy Swamp areas located south and west of the former Clybucca service station.

Acid discharge and blackwater runoff from these swamp areas negatively impact water quality in the Macleay River estuary.

Poor water quality is known to have contributed to fish kills in Andersons Inlet, Clybucca Creek and the Macleay Arm.

North Coast Local Land Services is playing an important local role in the project by working with Roads and Maritime Service and experts to implement options to fix these wetland areas.

"Managing the drainage of these low-lying areas can improve water quality, and significantly reduce negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems," North Coast Local Land Services general manager Louise Orr said.

"Rehabilitation works will improve estuarine habitat, which will be beneficial for fish, other estuarine species and the wetland ecosystem."

Justine Graham, team leader Operations Natural Asset Protection at Local Land Services, said "Investigations have pinpointed actions to improve drainage infrastructure to lessen the effect of acid runoff and enhance wetland habitats.

"We now have a set of initial and long term remediation options, which we are seeking to implement as soon as this year.

"The longer-term options will be examined based upon the success of the initial implementation, community support and future funding opportunities."

Ms Graham said Local Land Services is focused on minimising any impact on neighbouring properties and is mindful that changing the way water is managed on the Roads and Maritime Service land will be of particular interest to landholders.

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