Research supported by the National Environmental Science Program (NESP) has found encouraging improvements in water quality across many Great Barrier Reef catchments.
The study looked at up to 37 years of monitoring data from rivers that flow into the Great Barrier Reef (the Reef). It is the largest study of Reef catchment water quality completed to date.
Researchers found that nitrogen and sediment levels have improved at many sites over time.
Key findings
The research found:
- improved water quality across many Reef catchments
- evidence that better land and fertiliser management is helping improve water quality
- rainfall patterns, cyclones and land use also affect water quality
- positive results from long-term investment in science, monitoring and catchment management.
The study used data collected from major river systems across Queensland.
Why water quality matters
Good water quality is critical to the health of the Reef.
Nutrients and sediment can wash from the land into rivers and then eventually into Reef waters. Excess pollution can reduce the light available to seagrass and coral.
Better water quality helps keep the Reef healthy and supports its recovery.
Supporting better outcomes for the Reef
The research shows the value of long-term science and monitoring.
It is helping build our understanding of water quality and how it changes over time.
The findings show that long-term action can make a difference. Land managers, government, industry and researchers have all played a part.
