A major Murray River environmental project is underway in north-west Victoria, with works in the Hattah Kulkyne National Park leading efforts to restore and protect important floodplains.
Construction has begun at Hattah Lakes North as part of the Victorian Murray Floodplains Restoration Project (VMFRP), marking the final stage of a long-term program that will connect the northern and southern lakes to create a combined, managed system.
The VMFRP will deliver infrastructure to reconnect high-value Murray River floodplains with more natural water regimes, improving environmental health, cultural values, and resilience to climate change – without increasing flood risk to communities.
These projects achieve vital offsets against Basin Plan water recovery targets – meaning more water available for farmers and communities while achieving targeted, local environmental benefits.
The project is funded by the Australian Government and delivered by the Victorian Government, Lower Murray Water, Mallee and North Central Catchment Management Authorities and Parks Victoria.
New containment banks and gated structures, or regulators, will complement existing infrastructure installed under The Living Murray program in the southern lakes.
The restoration works will result in access changes in Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.
Most popular camping areas will remain open; however, a section of River Track will be closed between May and December to allow works to be carried out safely.
