The new water network infrastructure project will support growth in Caboolture West, Morayfield and Narangba and deliver a new 15-megalitre reservoir and eight kilometres of water pipelines to support a future population of more than 100,000 new residents over the next 20 years.
To provide water supply services for this growing community, some essential vegetation removal has occurred, and the nesting boxes form part of the revegetation plan.
Unitywater Executive Manager Sustainable Infrastructure Solutions, Mike Basterfield, said Unitywater was committed to revegetating with species native to the area.
“We’re increasing the number of trees in this area, replacing each tree that needs to be removed, with at least six new ones,” Mr Basterfield said.
“We’re mindful that Southeast Queensland has the highest density of koala populations in Australia and we want to ensure we’re doing our bit to maintain and enhance koala habitat while having the important role of providing essential water and wastewater services to our communities.
“We have undertaken an extensive process of design and approvals to ensure any potential impacts to the surrounding environment are minimised, and where tree removal has been required, this has been in accordance with City of Moreton Bay and State Government requirements.
“Additionally, we are relocating hollows in removed trees, where possible, to provide habitat for wildlife.”
Mr Basterfield said the installation process had been highly considered, with seven types of nesting boxes of different sizes and with different-sized openings used to cater for the large variety of species at the site.
“A qualified tree climber is used to select the safest and most appropriate trees for each nesting box,” he said.
“As with all our projects, we assess sites and plan to ensure the impacts to our environment are kept to a minimum.”
Mr Basterfield said Unitywater operated in one of the fastest growing regions of Australia, with population set to increase 20% by 2032.
“Unitywater will continue to upgrade and invest in water network infrastructure in a sustainable way to meet the demands of our growing region,” he said.
For more information about this project visit the Pine Valley Water Supply Project page.
