The water quality in various water bodies of the Central Coast has been a topic of concern in the past year, with significant fluctuations noted in different locations. The annual report released by the Central Coast Council sheds light on the changes observed in water quality during the 2021-22 financial year.
One of the key findings was the decline in water quality entering Budgewoi Lake from Wallarah Creek, which shifted from fair to poor due to the impact of flooding events. This decline was attributed to higher than average rainfall and floods that affected the region, leading to a decrease in overall water quality compared to the previous year.
Conversely, some areas showed positive outcomes, with Lake Munmorah being less impacted by catchment flooding compared to other parts of Tuggerah Lakes. Additionally, improvements were noted in water quality within Wamberal Lagoon, Cockrone Lagoon, and Lake Munmorah, where the grades shifted from fair to good.
Despite these positive developments, there were areas where water quality deteriorated. For instance, Canton Beach’s water quality declined from excellent to fair, while Avoca Lagoon saw a decrease in water quality from good to fair during the same period. The report highlighted the impact of floods on the water quality of Budgewoi Lake, where turbidity levels rose significantly following a flooding event.
The monitoring of water quality in various water bodies is crucial for assessing ecological health and identifying areas that require intervention to improve ecosystem health. Central Coast Council’s monitoring efforts encompass lakes, estuaries, rivers, creeks, and lagoons, aiming to evaluate the condition of these water bodies and implement measures to enhance their sustainability.
The report elaborates on key parameters measured to assess water quality, including turbidity, chlorophyll-a levels, and seagrass depth range. Turbidity serves as an indicator of water clarity, while chlorophyll-a levels reflect nutrient inputs that can impact water quality. Seagrass depth range is a biological indicator of water clarity over time, crucial for the survival of seagrass ecosystems.
In assessing specific regions like Tuggerah Lakes, the report noted fluctuations in water quality grades across different zones. While Ourimbah Creek maintained a fair grade, declines were observed in the southern basin zone of Tuggerah Lake and the nearshore zone adjacent to Tumbi Creek. These declines were linked to elevated chlorophyll-a levels following flooding events.
Similarly, variations in water quality were observed in Central Tuggerah Lake and Northern Tuggerah Lake, with fluctuations in grades attributed to wetter than average conditions. Canton Beach’s decline from excellent to fair highlighted the impact of nutrient and sediment inputs during floods, affecting water quality in the region.
The report underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring to track changes in water quality, raise community awareness, and address pressures affecting ecological health. By providing detailed insights into water quality trends, the report aims to guide conservation efforts and promote the sustainable management of water resources in the Central Coast region.
📰 Related Articles
- eBay Report Reveals Fall 2025 Luxury Fashion Trends
- WMR Report Reveals Automotive Electronics Market Trends 2025-2032
- UKHSA Annual Report Reveals Rising Infectious Disease Trends
- StockX Report Reveals 2025 Trends in Fashion and Collectibles
- Mastercard Report Reveals Global Travel Trends: Wellness, Sports, Gastronomy