The reforestation of old farmland near the centre first started in 2019 when Urban Utilities planted 1,600 blue gums, silver-leaf ironbark and Moreton Bay ash seedlings on site. The plantings and regenerated habitat were so successful that an additional 1,200 seedlings have been planted in 2022.
The planting effort began in “one of the driest years on record and, thanks to recycled water, those trees have survived drought and are already around five metres high,” said Cameron Jackson, Environment Water Quality Futures Specialist for Urban Utilities.
The consistent growth of the trees can be attributed to the sustainable watering system that irrigates the trees using recycled water from the facility. Even in drought, the growing habitat will be able to thrive using its own independent reliable source of water.
“This agroforestry project is a great example of how we’re finding ways to manage water more sustainably, by using it more than once,” said Jackson.
In just five years the total habitat in Helidon has grown to around seven hectares and has already attracted birds, lizards and wallabies. Jackson hopes it will attract local koala populations as the trees become more established.
Reforested land from above showing section of new tree growth
The reclassification of koalas from vulnerable to endangered and the release of Australia’s threatened species action plan in 2022 have highlighted the need for more focused efforts like these to create and maintain habitat that provides native food and shelter.
What you can do to help native species in your community
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