Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve Plan of Management

Seaham Swamp Nature Reserve is characteristic of the freshwater swamps that were once a common feature of the Hunter Valley. It provides breeding, roosting, shelter and feeding habitats for a range of migratory and local waterbirds, including species listed as threatened and/or listed under treaties with overseas countries.

The reserve includes the Edgeworth David Quarry, which was gazetted for scientific purposes in 1925. Professor Edgeworth David discovered rocks of glacial origin in the quarry while undertaking a survey for coal deposits in the Hunter Valley in 1884. The reserve also contains an historic slab cottage which was moved to its current location some time in the early 1900s.

The wetlands and the Edgeworth David Quarry are important educational resources and used for a range of research projects by local educational institutions. Volunteer groups have been particularly valuable in assisting with waterbird surveys, weed control and bush regeneration projects in the reserve.