Wetlands win a school facelift

By Tania Martin
MT Evelyn Primary School is working to restore wetlands next to the school which have been neglected for more than 20 years.
In the mid1980s, dedicated parents decided to create a wetland area near the school in Silvan Road.
However, 20 years later, restricted water flows have seen the original plants succumbing to the drought.
The school’s environmental coordinator, Trish Murray, said staff decided to restore and extend the area after finding a photo album of the original wetlands.
Ms Murray said the wider school community was set on restoring the site to its former condition.
She said a sensory trail, outdoor classroom and bird habitat would be the focal point, ensuring a stronger environmental focus.
The school’s parents’ association and gardening club has started weed control in the area.
Ms Murray said that a recent audit of the site had identified only a few native plants, including some significant gum trees, remained.
She said grade three and four students were designing plans for the project, while grade five and six students have been busy making possum boxes.
“Over 100 students have shown interest and are involved in the school gardening club,” Ms Murray said.
“Every week 20 students are involved in replanting school gardens and revegetating the wetlands area.”