EARTH FIRST | There's no ducking a tough decision on Spring Creek Reservoir | Poll

Councillors will be asked to discuss and make a decision on the proposal put forward advocating public access to Spring Creek for the purposes of non-powered boating and fishing.

Councillors need to be reminded that Spring Creek is regarded as an important refuge for native waterfowl. It currently provides a relatively undisturbed permanent habitat for a wide variety of aquatic birdlife.

Such refuges are vital in the drought conditions which are presently affecting our state.

The birdlife of Spring Creek has been monitored since 1994 by members of the Orange Field Naturalist and Conservation society, all of whom are respected in ornithological circles.

During this period several threatened species, including one listed at Commonwealth level have been recorded at the Spring Creek site.

Threatened species which frequent Spring Creek include the Blue Billed Duck (Oxyura Australis). There is evidence that this species has been known to breed at Spring Creek. There have also been sightings on a regular basis of another threatened species, Freckled Duck (Stictonetta naevosa).

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In addition, Spring Creek is home to 51 wetland species, eight of which are protected under international treaties, 6 species being listed as vulnerable in NSW, and one as listed as vulnerable in Australia.

In submissions to council, environmental groups have consistently advised against any additional aquatic activity on Spring Creek, especially in the northern end of the dam, which is shallow and contains most of the species observed. It is vital that this area remains off limits.

There are, however, opportunities to develop the area for birdwatching. Bird tourism is increasing in popularity, and Spring Creek, with 124 identified resident bird species, is an ideal site.

Council could consider investigating how it could appropriately develop Spring Creek to attract bird watchers.

Suggestions include construction of viewing platforms and boardwalks and the removal and revegetation of invasive species along the dam foreshores.

The result would be a recreational facility that benefits, rather than compromises, the environment.