Ewens Ponds, a renowned aquatic attraction in South Australia, will reopen to the public for swimming and diving on December 1. The reopening comes after an 18-month closure due to environmental concerns regarding declining water levels. Located in the Limestone Coast, Ewens Ponds is a karst spring-fed sinkhole system that supports a diverse range of rare flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for recreational divers and snorkelers.

The Department for Environment and Water initially closed the ponds in May 2022, citing worries that visitor activity could worsen existing environmental issues. Claire Harding, a conservation ecologist with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, noted that the pond ecosystem is gradually recovering. "What we're seeing in the ponds now is that the water levels are starting to recover and are on the inclining trend, which is really good news," she said. Harding also mentioned that the water remains clear, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique underwater experience.

Despite the positive signs of recovery, Harding warned that some environmental degradation is still evident. "There's been quite a lot of vegetation loss in the main ponds themselves," she explained. This loss is attributed to low water levels exposing aquatic plants to air and increased activity from waterbirds that dive deeper to forage. Additionally, an increase in attached algae has been observed, which can hinder the photosynthesis of aquatic plants.

The closure of the ponds provided researchers with an opportunity to study the ecosystem with minimal human interference. The Australia New Guinea Fishes Association (ANGFA) has been conducting dives in the ponds since 2012, documenting the rare fish and plant species present. Greg Martin, president of ANGFA Victoria, shared how the group became aware of the ponds through a member's recommendation. "He said we all had to move hell and high water to come and see this system that's unlike anything he's ever seen in the world," Martin said.

As the reopening date approaches, the Department for Environment and Water is conducting spring observation work to assess the ponds' conditions. ANGFA's research has attracted visitors from across Australia and beyond, eager to experience the unique environment. Conservation student Sarah Butler, who visited the ponds for the first time this year, emphasized the importance of protecting such ecosystems. "We don't have many places like this — we should protect it not just for the species but for our own enjoyment as people," she stated.

Groundwater management has become a significant issue in the Limestone Coast, with ongoing reviews of water allocations in the region. John Lenegan, another ANGFA member, has explored over 100 karst spring locations worldwide and considers Ewens Ponds the most pristine. "This is the most pristine one I've ever experienced for plant growth, pearling and just for being a really healthy system," he said. Lenegan cautioned that if the ponds were to deteriorate, it could take decades for the ecosystem to recover.

As the reopening date nears, both conservationists and visitors are hopeful for the future of Ewens Ponds and its unique aquatic environment.