Water in the landscape
As water flows across the landscape it can be filtered and cleaned in natural systems like streams and wetlands, but it can also mobilise contaminants, nutrients and sediments from rural and urban land uses. There are many ways we can improve how water moves through the catchment to improve water quality in our estuaries.
As part of Healthy Estuaries WA, streams will be revegetated and fenced to deter stock.
Stream restoration
Clearing for agriculture has often removed riparian vegetation (vegetation on the banks of rivers and streams) and stock have unimpeded access to streams and drains. This can lead to degradation, sedimentation and infilling of rivers, wetlands and estuaries.
Re-establishing functional rivers and streams enhances the uptake and removal of nutrients and improves ecological and amenity values. Healthy riparian zones are the most effective measure of improved river health and water quality.
Together with catchment groups, community members and land holders, the Healthy Estuaries WA will fence 240 kilometres of priority waterways to exclude stock and plant 72 hectares of foreshore. Outreach and extension programs will enhance farmer knowledge and skills for managing land use around waterways.
Restoring stream function through stock exclusion fencing and revegetation reduces soil erosion and organic loading while also enhancing the uptake and removal of nutrients.