Lower Lakes and Coorong

Imminent risk of destruction and continuing deterioration

·         Very high ecological diversity

·         Internationally significant wetland 

·         One of Top Six water bird sites in Australia

·         Indigenous cultural heritage values to Ngarrindjeri people

As well as being of international significance, the Lower Lakes and Coorong supplies Adelaide’s water and is a major tourist and holiday destination. It exemplifies both the cultural, social and ecological values of the Murray Darling River System, of which it is part, and the threats the system faces.

THREAT:

Lack of flows and excessive salt levels due to regulatory structures, unsustainable water extraction and drought have endangered flora and fauna.  Current and proposed actions by the SA government will not address the lack of environmental flows.

DESIRED OUTCOME/VISION:

For biodiversity to be restored and conserved, the volume of water reaching the Lower Lakes and Coorong must be increased and seasonal flow patterns be at least partially restored.

FATE/OUTCOME:

Suffering