Wastewater wetlands project at Cowes

Westernport Water’s wastewater treatment plant is studying how floating wetlands can be used to manage treated effluent and emissions produced from wastewater treatment.

Harriet Shing, Victorian Minister for Water, inspected progress on the Restorative Wetland Carbon Storage pilot project at Cowes this week.

The State Government has invested $250,000 towards the project as part of the Integrated Water Management grant program, which co-invests in wastewater and stormwater projects that can contribute to water security, public and environmental health, and urban amenity.

The study is being run by Westernport Water, findings will be shared with the broader water industry and community. The project is one of 11 metropolitan and 17 regional projects receiving a funding boost under the first round of the $14.1 million Integrated Water Management grants program.

A new liner and cover have also been installed at the San Remo Basin ensuring that Westernport Water can continue to provide consistent and reliable drinking water services for another 30 years.

The $2.6 million project will help prevent evaporation of the water supply from the San Remo water storage basin. The works were finished three months ahead of time and under budget without any impact to customers.

Shing said the pilot project will support the water industry adapt to climate change and population growth, and provide multiple environmental benefits such as improved biodiversity, habitat and water quality.

“The renewal of the basin ensures that the water future of one of Australia’s most popular tourism destinations remains secure.”

Jordan Crugnale, Member for Bass, said nature-based solutions are important to the community and the pilot is just one example of many local innovations that will ensure the Bass Coast is well-positioned to meet future challenges.

“Renewal of critical assets like the San Remo Basin is essential to the ongoing supply of water services that meet, or exceed customer expectations – meaning reliability for families, businesses and the local community.”

For more informationa, visit: www.premier.vic.gov.au