Bird expert Jonathan Starks and professional photographer Jenny Stephens will lead a bird-watching and photography session at Watchem Lake on April 11, to mark the start of a program in the north-east Wimmera and southern Mallee wetlands.

The project – a Wimmera Catchment Management Authority initiative – will monitor bird activity at wetlands that receive environmental flows from the Wimmera-Mallee Pipeline.

Researchers will use community survey results to help track wetland conditions.

Authority chief executive David Brennan said since the pipeline was completed, the wetlands had become vital for providing surface water in areas previously abundant with channel-fed dams.

“The response from birds, frogs and plants to this regular allocation of environmental water has been significant,” he said. 

“As part of our ongoing research into environmental flows, we would really appreciate any extra information from community members about what they see when they visit these wetlands.

“This will help us greatly with long-term planning for environmental water.” 

The authority will host the launch event with Birchip and Watchem Landcare groups.

The event starts at 5pm and includes a barbecue tea.

Organisers asked people to RSVP by April 9 for catering purposes by calling 5382 1544 or emailing wcma@wcma.vic.gov.au.