The Huon Valley Council’s Natural Resource Management Unit and Infrastructure Services Department have completed a re-greening of the Skinners Creek walking track, following the completion of works for the Huonville Stormwater Diversion Project.

A total of 11,120 native grass, shrub and tree species were planted along the walking track as well as the connecting Black Gum Reserve.

“At Skinners Creek, the plantings will restore and expand the vegetation that was lost during the works for the stormwater diversion project,” Huon Valley Council Mayor Bec Enders explained. “The plantings will create a variety of habitats and lift the beauty of the popular walkway.

“At the adjacent Black Gum Reserve, the planting connects two patches of threatened Eucalyptus ovata forest and woodland.”

“A variety of native species were used, with water-tolerant varieties chosen for flood-prone spots.

“At the adjacent Black Gum Reserve, the planting connects two patches of threatened Eucalyptus ovata forest and woodland. It will also help buffer the impacts of future flooding events and offset carbon in our atmosphere.”

The Council has plans to explore the future installation of a public boardwalk linking the Skinners Creek walking track to the Black Gum Reserve viewing platform.