Protecting Adenia Park’s Salt Marsh

The City of Canning is taking action to protect the salt marsh at Adenia Park in Ferndale, one of the last remaining examples of this unique habitat along the Canning River.

Salt marshes are rare and fragile ecosystems. They play a vital role in storing “blue carbon” that helps tackle climate change, provide breeding and feeding areas for fish and birdlife, improve water quality by filtering nutrients, and help stabilise riverbanks.

Importantly, the Adenia Park salt marsh is recognised as a Threatened Ecological Community (TEC) under both federal and state law. This means it is considered to be at risk of disappearing from the wild and is protected under national environmental legislation.

Why protection is needed

Over time, informal tracks have been created through the salt marsh as people look for shortcuts. These tracks damage sensitive vegetation, disturb wildlife and threaten the long-term health of the ecosystem.

To address this, the City is working with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and local community groups to put in place immediate protection measures.

What’s happening

• Temporary fencing has been installed at both ends of the informal track

• New “Path Closed” signs will be installed

• Repairs to fencing along a side track are being scoped

• Ongoing monitoring is in place to prevent new tracks forming

These measures target only the informal tracks that are causing harm. Community access remains open via the raised path and interpretive trail, which highlight Sikh and Whadjuk Noongar heritage and offer a safe way to enjoy the park.

Looking ahead

The City will continue to share updates with the community and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the Adenia Park salt marsh. By acting now, we can ensure this special place continues to thrive for future generations.