The water quality in Moreton Bay is excellent and an expansion of seagrass meadows in the bay signifies a healthier ecosystem, according to the 2021 Healthy Land and Water Report Card.
The annual report into the environmental condition of South East Queensland waterways showed that the catchment waterways of Redlands Coast have remained in “fair condition”, consistent with findings in last year’s report.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the consistent Catchment Environmental Condition score of C+ and a Waterway Benefit Rating of 3 stars (out of 5) were positive signs that work being done in the city was continuing to be effective.
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Cr Williams said the report, prepared by Healthy Land and Water, showed there had been a slight improvement in the environmental condition of Southern Moreton Bay with a score of B+; with Central Moreton Bay also improving, up to an A from last year’s A-; while Eastern Moreton Bay maintained its A rating and Western Moreton Bay stayed on an A-.
“The report found the water quality in all four sectors of Moreton Bay remained excellent, with an improvement in all indicators in several areas,” she said.
“One of the encouraging findings is the continuing spread of seagrass meadows in various areas of Moreton Bay.
“Expanding seagrass habitat signifies a healthier ecosystem. They are home to dugongs and provide protection for a rich biodiversity of marine life.”
Cr Williams said the report showed Redlands Coast residents highly valued their local waterways and were actively using them.
“The report showed residents placed a high value on their local waterways for recreation, with more than half of those surveyed saying they used them for recreational activities at least monthly.”
Cr Williams said encouraging and maintaining the community’s connection with their local creeks and the Bay was important.
“To keep Redlands Coast naturally wonderful for generations to come we all need to continue working together to improve the health of our waterways,” she said.
