Fencing waterways is a key first step in improving water quality. By excluding stock and creating a buffer between the land and the water, the amount of nutrients, effluent and sediment entering the waterways is reduced. This also creates habitat for invertebrate, bird, and freshwater species.
Undertaking a riparian fencing project requires planning to ensure that fences are far back enough to allow for flooding and/or water movement. Mapping your waterways is an important first step. Council can support with this using the Catchment Condition Survey.
Go to the catchment condition survey page
Once waterways are mapped, a fencing plan can be created. This should take into account the overall farm layout, stock management and waterway protection, in conjunction with planned crossing points etc.
In some cases, fencing is required under the stock exclusion regulations.
