7 April 2006
Ribbons of Blue is back in the Avon for 2006. The Department of Environment have obtained funding through the Avon Catchment Council’s Healthy Ecosystems project to recommence the Ribbons of Blue project. This is funded by the State and Australian Governments through the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality program. The new Avon Regional Coordinator for Ribbons of Blue/Waterwatch WA, Rebekah Esszig is available to assist groups by providing support and education opportunities about water quality monitoring and issues. Rebekah said “Ribbons of Blue is focused on getting local community groups and schools actively involved in learning about and protecting water quality and sharing responsibility for management of our water resources”. In the Avon catchment, the effects of salinity, erosion and excess nutrients threaten the health of our surface and groundwater. By sampling and monitoring local waterbodies, schools and community groups develop an increased awareness of and involvement in landcare issues and responsibilities. Many schools in the Avon Region have participated in the Ribbons of Blue program because of its close relationship to school curriculum outcomes. Some schools have even taken the program beyond monitoring and formed partnerships with landcare, catchment and community groups and undertaken streamline or wetland revegetation. “I look forward to meeting Ribbons of Blue participants in the Avon Region.” Rebekah said. “I hope to work closely with these groups to maintain the momentum and enthusiasm shown for the program over the last couple of years and discuss their plans for the future.” If you would like to find out more about Ribbons of Blue/WaterwatchWA, specific activities that are occurring in your area through the project or how to become involved contact Rebekah on 9690 2624, by email at rebekah.esszig@environment.wa.gov.au or by mail at PO Box 497, Northam, WA, 6401. Media Contact: Rochelle Pyle (08) 9690 2250