Land Based Initiatives for Reef Water Quality

Water flowing through the land catchment area into the Great Barrier Reef plays an important role in the health of the reef ecosystem. Water run-off carrying pollutants, sediments, and nutrients from erosion, agriculture and urban activities threatens coral health, resilience and the overall biodiversity of the reef.

The first Mackay Whitsunday Water Quality Improvement Plan, developed in 2007-2008, was a significant step in providing crucial information on water quality flowing through the catchment to the sea. This plan created a strong foundation for the programs that would follow over the next two decades.

Monitoring water quality remains an important activity for Reef Catchments. Regional data collection directly contributes vital data to long-term monitoring projects such as the Paddock to Reef Program and Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership.

At Reef Catchments, water quality data feeds into strategic planning for project implementation and supports landholders to make informed decisions around management practices.

Ultimately, understanding regional water quality issues, allows for better targeted land based initiatives to improve water quality flowing to the Reef.

‍