Shellfish reefs, made from recycled oyster shells, are being trialled in the North Pine River at Lawnton and Kallangur to improve local water quality.
Community Benefits and Environmental Goals
Unitywater has applied to Moreton Bay City Council to install two new oyster reefs in the North Pine River, adding to an existing trial launched in 2023. These new reefs, planned for Lawnton Pocket Road in Lawnton and Brickle Road in Kallangur, form part of Unitywater’s commitment to achieving net-zero nutrient discharge into waterways by 2040.
The initiative reflects a collaborative effort between Unitywater, OzFish, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Healthy Land and Water, combining resources and expertise to improve local waterways. The project aims to improve water quality for the community and the environment.
The Science Behind Shellfish Reefs
The “reefs” are constructed using triangular baskets filled with recycled oyster shells sourced from Brisbane restaurants and commercial shucking operations. These baskets are pre-seeded and then “soaked” in Moreton Bay for approximately one year before being placed in the river.
This process allows the shellfish to grow and mature. As the shellfish grow, their natural filtering process helps remove nutrients from the water. The trial rigorously tests various factors, including reef structure, water depth, and salinity levels, to determine the optimal conditions for shellfish growth and nutrient reduction. Preliminary findings from the initial trial, which began in September 2023, are expected soon.
A Collaborative Approach to Water Management
The broader project, which began with installing 40 baskets near the Murrumba Downs Wastewater Treatment Plant, is a five-year initiative supported by $464,000 in funding from Unitywater. This initial stage is already recognised as a nutrient offset method under the Queensland Water Quality Offset Policy. The partners believe this project represents a significant step forward in exploring the potential of shellfish reefs to improve water quality and contribute to more sustainable wastewater management practices.
They emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving positive environmental outcomes and see this project as a model for future restoration efforts. The project also highlights the potential for shellfish reef restoration as a legitimate method for offsetting nutrient discharge into waterways.
Published Date 20-Feb-2025
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