|
 |
|
Karl Hampton MINISTER FOR PARKS AND WILDLIFE |
$1.3 Million Boardwalk Proves Popular At Fogg Dam
A new $1.3 million boardwalk at Fogg Dam is proving popular among visitors to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, Parks and Wildlife Minister Karl Hampton said today.
“More than 75,000 people visit Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve each year and October is a particularly popular month for avid birdwatchers,” Mr Hampton said.
“Fogg Dam is home to about 130 species of birds - including 65 species of water birds which are very visible this time of year - and is one of the few wetland systems accessible to visitors all year round.
“The Territory Government continues to upgrade its parks and reserves throughout the Territory and the new $1.3 million boardwalk forms part of the Fogg Dam Monsoon Forest Walking Track.
“Many people have already enjoyed the new $1.3 million boardwalk since it opened in late August, which was built to replace the original boardwalk that had become unsafe.
“The Monsoon Forest Walking Track is home to a variety of habitats, including monsoon and paperbark forests and then onto the
The new $1.3 million boardwalk – which covers 1.1km of the 5km Monsoon Forest Walking Track - is made of pre-cast concrete footings with an aluminium structural framework to which the boardwalk decking is fixed. Gravel covers the rest of the walking track.
Mr Hampton said the Territory Government recently added Fogg Dam and other remains associated with the Humpty Doo to the heritage register.
“Fogg Dam was built in 1956 as part of the failed Humpty Doo rice project,” Mr Hampton said.
“The physical remains demonstrate aspects of a large complex cultivation project that reflect a high degree of technical ingenuity, boldness and resourcefulness.
“This site helps demonstrate the history of industry in the Territory has not been one of consistent success but of struggle, failings and new starts.
“The educational and research value of Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve is high with thousands of visitors coming to the site each year to view the birdlife and the nearby monsoon areas are subject to intense scientific research.”
Related files:
Hampton.281009.FoggDam.pdf ( 278.8 kb )
