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April 2026: Chemical, Water Quality and Macroinvertebrate Analysis
- Alison Loxton
- May 30
- 2 min read
Hi everyone
Trust you are enjoying the mild weather.
Please find attached the results of our Water Quality Monitoring efforts for the month of April, 2026. Many thanks to Kim, Helen and Brian for their assistance.
In respect of the results the following notes are provided:
There is now a noticeable difference between freshwater and saltwater temperatures – from around 20 degrees in the freshwater and around 25 degrees in the saltwater; this difference will increase as winter establishes its authority
Salinity levels at the saltwater sites are quite good for this time of year, given that, at the time of sampling, we hadn’t experienced excessive rainfall
pH levels are also in the healthy range, which together with sound levels of dissolved oxygen, provide fish life with favourable conditions
In respect of reactive phosphates theses were higher than normal in the Coomera River, probably reflecting gardening and nursery activities
Levels of ammonia nitrogen remain low which is great news, inferring that reticulated sewerage and septic tanks are being properly maintained.
On another matter, on a recent trip to Waterhen Lake I spotted a snapping turtle. This is only the second one seen in 14 years of sampling. The first was seen at very close quarters in Yaun Creek some years ago; the second in Waterhen Lake at a distance of around 8 metres. There is no mistaking the size of the shell which is around 400mm long, and the large head.
Normally in the streams we encounter the short-necked turtle, sometimes in numbers. For example, in Waterhen Lake Helen and I have seen up to 11 on one log, whilst at Killarney Court up to 13 have been counted in the late afternoon, absorbing the last heat from the sun.
If you wish to spot a turtle you must move quietly and without talking, and sunlight must be present. So, if you are interested, get on a good pair of walking shoes and go looking.
Finally we have our next planting at Regatta Waters Park on Saturday 13th June, 2026 and to which you are invited to share in what is an enjoyable activity of great value to our environment and community. We will be sending out a further invitation and reminder shortly.
Kindest regards to you all
Steven Gill
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