Intertidal Wetlands Case Study

Evaluate the traditional and contemporary management strategies with particular reference to the intertidal wetlands ecosystem at Bicentennial Park, Homebush Bay, Sydney.
For many years wetlands were seen as only a mosquito infested area. Nowadays they are highly valued ecosystems that are being protected for future generations of wildlife, and also people. A wetland is an area of land that is temporarily or permanently inundated. Sydney’s Bicentennial Park is home to 58ha of intertidal wetlands. Sydney Bicentennial Park is located within Homebush Bay (33 51' S, 115 33' E) and is approximately 12 kilometres west of Sydney’s CBD. The intertidal wetland has formed along the southern edge of the Parramatta River. The 58 ha intertidal wetland is made up of 40 ha of mangrove forest, 10 ha of open, shallow water- the waterbird refuge and 8 ha of saltmarsh.

The wetlands are the largest residual intertidal wetland located on the Parramatta River. Over 135 species of birds have been recorded at the park, including 5 rare and endangered species. The area is home to the saltmarsh plant ‘Lampranthus tegens’. The plant is found in only four known areas, the Sydney Bicentennial Park wetland being one of these areas. The size of the
Not only did it provide plentiful resources for their survival, their religious beliefs illustrate them as the caretakers of the land. They were able to appreciate the area and understand its value, unlike the contemporary industrialized societies. The intertidal wetland offered an esteemed hunting ground but the Aboriginal people did not abuse the fragile environment. Their aim was to nurture the land for the benefit of future generations and they only took what they needed. The Wangal Clan showed their upmost respect for the wetland, their appreciation towards the area led to minimal disruption and efficient use of the