TWENTY tortoises will be released into artificial wetlands at Goolwa, south of Adelaide, today after being rescued from the lower lakes of the River Murray.
The tortoises were found to be suffering from potentially fatal tube-worm infestations, related to the falling water levels in the lakes because of the ongoing drought.Department of Environment and Heritage community support officers Sally Roberts said the tortoises were cared for by volunteers and are now considered well enough to be released.
Their progress will be monitored by local school students.