The Far South Coast's humble saltmarshes might be short in stature, but they are a huge help in a changing climate - if we don't let cattle trample all over them.
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Scientists have discovered coastal wetlands such as saltmarsh, mangroves and seagrass, store more carbon than forests.
According to a recent study, saltmarsh can trap carbon 35-57 times faster than forests on a per-hectare basis.
In NSW, saltmarshes may hold more than 1.1 million tonnes of carbon.
They are among the planet's most effective carbon-binding ecosystems, and Sonia Bazzacco of South East Local Land Services is determined to protect them.
"There has been an increase in studies and continued research into the importance of saltmarsh," she said.
"It [saltmarsh] is a great way in off-setting climate change."
The sensitive coastal wetland has the ability to store and capture carbon at a higher rate than any other natural system.
"Saltmarsh is a fantastic carbon source, it stores more carbon than a rainforest and at a faster rate," she said.
Ms Bazzacco said saltmarsh was a rich source of biodiversity.
"Prawns can rely on saltmarsh for up to one third of their diet," she said.
"You will also find migratory birds feel safe in the openness of the saltmarsh, and value it as a habitat and food source."
It's important for so many reasons ...
- Sonia Bazzacco, senior LLS officer
Grazing livestock is one of the biggest threats to saltmarshes.
Ms Bazzacco said many landowners were unaware of its importance.
"It has been estimated NSW has lost up to 70 percent of its coastal wetlands since European settlement," Ms Bazzacco said.
Local Land Services can fund the management of saltmarsh areas, from the Shoalhaven to the Bega Valley.
"Land managers are still able to have a productive property, whilst still protecting saltmarsh," Ms Bazzacco said.
"To have that area protected means you're looking after the future. It is important for so many reasons."
Saltmarshes in the Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla Shire and the Bega Valley are being restored.
Local Land Services help provide fencing materials, weed management, native plants and works to improve salt marsh affected by artificial drainage.
Three years ago, private properties on the Moruya Flood Plains had seven hectares of saltmarsh fenced.
It is currently the largest area of saltmarsh protected on private property in the Eurobodalla so far.
Dairy farmer Andrew Collette said it was great to see a buffer zone of trees appear since taking part in the project: "We knew there would be no economic loss and it was a filter for water."
Landowners interested in protecting and enhancing coastal saltmarsh on their properties are encouraged to get in touch with senior local land services officer, Sonia Bazzacco, sonia.bazzacco@lls.nsw.gov.au or 0429 998 585.