Parwan Valley

The Parwan Valley is located in Victoria, Australia's central highlands. It is located north of the You Yangs and its nearest town is Bacchus Marsh. The valley was originally used as farming land from the 1880s and onwards, but after several decades of agricultural abuse the soils became extremely saline causing erosion all around the valley. By 1948 it was estimated that erosion in the valley had reduced the holding capacity of the nearby Melton Reservoir by 20%. The Victorian Government compulsorily acquired the land and has been attempting to rescue the valley ever since.

Geography

The Parwan valley sits in between the Brisbane Ranges, Werribee Gorge State Park and the You Yangs. At the center of the valley is White Elephant Ridge which showcases the affects of soil erosion. The valley was originally a seabed. 250 million years ago after the sea receded volcanic activity caused the valley to fault and drop down leaving two large escapements on either side. Two creeks run through the valley, Parwan creek to the west and Spring creek to the east.