World Wetlands Day
What is World Wetlands Day?
World Wetlands Day is an international day to celebrate all wetlands world wide. It is celebrated each year on 2 February to mark the anniversary of the signing of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) in Ramsar, Iran, on 2 February 1971. World Wetlands Day 2012 commemorates the 41st year since the Ramsar Convention was signed. There are now 160 nations who have signed up and are committed to conservation and the wise use of wetlands.
What is a Ramsar site?
A Ramsar site is a wetland of International importance listed under the Ramsar convention, named after the town in Iran where the convention was signed. Victoria has 11 Ramsar sites, including the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site. This site was nominated in 1982 and is an amazing wetland system. It provides vital habitat for many animals and plants, including migratory shorebirds that fly thousands of kilometres to visit these wetlands.
How do I participate in World Wetlands Day?
To find out about World Wetlands Day activities visit the The Australian Government's web-based Calendar of Events.
Useful World Wetlands Day websites
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (SEWPaC): has information on all of Australia's Ramsar wetlands, government policies, wetland materials.
Ramsar Wetlands: The International Ramsar Convention of Wetlands website.
Parks Victoria: provides information on parks in Victoria, and how to join your local friends group.
Melbourne Water: information on Melbourne water storages, rivers and creeks.
WetlandCare Australia: provides advice and information on protecting and restoring Australia's wetlands as well as educational resources for wetlands.
Wetlands International: a global organisation working to sustain and restore wetlands and their resources. Find information on global wetland projects.
Birds Australia: works to conserve native birds and biodiversity in Australasia and Antartica. Find out about current projects, how to get involved and view current calender of events.
World Wetlands Day material
Do-It Yourself Frog: be creative and make your own paper frog. No staples or glue needed just some clever finger work!
Do it yourself frog
[PDF File - 444.5 KB]
Victoria’s Ramsar Wetland Fact sheet: easily downloadable information sheet on Victoria’s Ramsar wetlands
Victorias Ramsar wetlands fact sheet
[PDF File - 559.7 KB]
Wetlands Quiz: teachers and students can test their knowledge of wetlands and rivers
Wetlands Quiz
[PDF File - 384.5 KB]
DSE Education resources
*Some photos on this page are provided by Corangamite Waterwatch and the Marine Discovery Centre Queenscliff
