River regulation and associated forest management problems in the River Murray red gum forests

Abstract

Summary The Barmah and Millewa Forests contain extensive areas of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum) forest growing on a flood plain of the River Murray. In the past, under natural conditions, the forests were extensively flooded in winter/spring of most years, often for two or more months' duration. Indeed, the best quality forest has developed on those areas most regularly flooded. However, following construction of Lake Hume the river flow has been regulated since 1934 with the effect of reducing winter/spring flows and increasing summer/autumn flows for irrigation purposes. As a consequence, the frequency and duration of winter/spring flooding of the forest has decreased and also localised and prolonged flooding of the forest in summer/autumn has led to deterioration and death of some stands. With completion of Lake Dartmouth on a major tributary, the Mitta Mitta River, the effects of river regulation will be accentuated. A summary of river flow data from 1886 to 1984 is presented, showing natur...