Significant undercutting of the bank and loss of mangroves and saltmarsh was occurring in this shallow tidal coastal lake system. This contributed a significant amount of sediment to the lake, resulting in high tubidity. Possible causes of the erosion include: a rise in water levels in the lake; an increase in the frequency and strength of south easterly winds; channel formation and deepening of the lake adjacent to the eroding bank; or a combination of these factors. 850m of fillet was placed approximately 3-5m in front of the eroding bank using a long reach excavator. 850m of foreshore was fenced off to prevent cattle access. The project was successful in preventing further undercutting and erosion, mangrove and saltmarsh species have naturally regenerated, and habitat quality has significantly increased as a result of the wors. Works were completed as part of the Clarence Floodplain Project, a collaboration between state government natural resource management departments, fishing, grazing and sugar industries, conservation, Landcare and traditional owner stakeholders. The project was funded by a grant from the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority.

Mangroves

Method: Hybrid, Rehabilitation

Supplementary revegetation: Sporobolus virginicus

Mangrove species: Avicennia marina

Hybrid structure: Rock fillet

Hybrid structure length (m): 850