Our Waterways
The Nepean River and Wianamatta South Creek are the two main waterways in the Camden local government area (LGA). These iconic waterways, and the creeks that feed into them, support wildlife, recreation, green spaces, urban areas and even the local economy. Both waterways and their catchments drain to the Hawkesbury River, over 40 kilometres away.
The transformation of rural land into urban areas with hard surfaces (roofs, footpaths, driveways and roads) means less rainwater is absorbed into the ground. During rain events, the increased volume of fast-moving urban runoff (stormwater) collects pollutants from these surfaces and carries them into stormwater drains and eventually our local waterways.
Our creeks and rivers are under stress due to pollutants (litter, fertilisers, and sediment), sewer overflows, introduced (pest) species, and increased flows.
Many people aren’t aware that stormwater is collected separately to sewage, which means that it’s not usually treated before entering waterways. This is why it’s so important to keep pollutants out of our stormwater drains.
To learn more about how you can help care for our waterways, click the sections below.
Aquatic Plants
There are many native and naturally occurring aquatic plants that appear in Camden’s waterways. The growth of these plants is part of a natural cycle in our waterways and occurs in response to available sunlight, slow moving waters and abundant nutrients.
Whilst it can look untidy, these native plants are an important food source for waterbirds and provide habitat for essential water bugs.
They are also great at removing nutrients from waterways and reduce the likelihood of harmful blue-green algae blooms.
Floating aquatic plants will naturally leave the waterway when conditions change. This could be at the change of seasons, when they have used the available nutrients, or when there is a rainfall event that acts to flush the waterway. You can help control the growth of aquatic plants by preventing nutrients from washing into our waterways and taking the Be the Solution to Stormwater Pollution pledge.
If you suspect your local waterway is experiencing a blue-green algae bloom, check the Water Quality Map for the latest alerts. For information on other aquatic plants, check out your local Waterway Walk.
Some examples of floating aquatic plants in the Camden area are shown here:
Be the Solution to Stormwater Pollution
Did you know that water that runs off our driveways, roads, roofs, car parks, footpaths and gardens travels via our stormwater system to our local creeks and waterways? Usually this water isn’t treated so it’s important that it is kept as clean as possible.
By working together and pledging to make small changes in our everyday lives, we can improve the quality of water that ends up in our beautiful waterways. You can show your support and pledge to make a difference by taking the Be the Solution to Stormwater Pollution pledge.
Duck Feeding
While it might be fun to feed the wildlife at your local reserve or waterway, it can be very damaging to the animals’ health and create issues of malnutrition, poor water quality, behavioural problems and attract pests. Wildlife should be admired and respected from a distance. For more information, please refer to the Feeding the ducks does more harm than good information card.
Erosion and Sediment Control
Erosion and sediment controls are essential measures that prevent sediment and debris from entering streets, drains and our local waterways. By containing soil and managing waste and other materials on your building site, you can:
- Help keep our local waterways clean and healthy;
- Reduce site issues caused by wet weather; and
- Save on costs for replacing stockpiles that have been washed or blown away.
For more information, please refer to the Erosion and sediment control information card or the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website.
Nepean River, Our River
Camden Council has developed the ‘Nepean River, Our River’ video series in partnership with Penrith City Council.
This video series explores the history and use of the Nepean River, what both Councils are doing to improve water quality and how you too can help limit your impact on our waterways.
To view the video series, refer to Waterway Education.
Our Waterway Health
Council uses water quality data to assess the condition of our waterways. To view the Our Waterway Health report, refer to Water Quality Monitoring.
Platypus
The platypus, or Djamalang in Dharawal language, is a unique Australian animal that occupies freshwater systems along the Australian east coast, including the Nepean River.
Camden Council is committed to improving the water quality of the Nepean River to ensure this iconic species continues to reside in our area. The platypus in Council’s logo is a reminder to keep our waterways healthy.
For more information on platypus in the Camden LGA or to report a sighting, please refer to the Platypus webpage.