The State Government has purchased 90ha of farmland at Eight Mile Creek as part of a wetland rejuvenation and restoration project.
Karst rising springs and alkaline fens are spring fed wetlands located near the coast and are present from Beachport in South Australia to Portland in Victoria and are among just three similar systems in the world.
The purchase of the property, which is home to three karst springs, is part of a project that will proceed in two stages over the next few years.
The surrounding land, once a thriving wetland, is a nationally threatened ecological system which has restoration potential.
The property has three of 18 karst springs within the nearby Eight Mile Creek swamp system which are nationally significant.
By restoring the wetlands, a range of rare and endangered flora and fauna will be protected and rehabilitated.
The works are also expected to better protect valuable groundwater sources and reduce the risk of sea water inundation.
Returning water to locations in the Lower Limestone Coast is a critical climate adaptation strategy that supports biodiversity and surrounding primary production.
Stage 2, which involves the purchase of a further 95ha by the Burrandies Aboriginal Corporation, will also provide on Country employment opportunities for local Aboriginal people.
Karst springs are an important, but often threatened ecosystem which are home to about a third of freshwater fish species found in of South Australia.
Limestone Coast Landscape Board chair Dr Penny Schulz said karst springs were important to the community but many people do not realise just how rare they were globally and there were more hidden around the southern coast.
“Their perseverance, willingness to continue to work with us and commitment to thinking differently will leave a lasting legacy in the region,” she said.
“It is rare that a private property of such environmental significance comes on the market, complete with the ability to restore the wetlands without impacting neighbouring properties.
“We envisage that by winter 2025, we will be ready to begin restoration works on the land. We encourage you to follow our project page to keep up to date with progress and get involved.”
Landholders Kevin and Susanne Smith said the project was an opportunity for agriculture, the environment and even local tourism.
“We have always known this land must be kept wet for it to remain healthy – it’s great this has finally been recognised – and we will all benefit,” they said.
“Agriculture and the environment can work together, and in doing so, it will help secure the water for our farming community into the future.”
