Conservation and protection
The $8.5M Eastern Cape York Water Quality Program enhanced knowledge of water quality and related ecosystem health and reduced pollutants flowing from the Cape (less disturbed catchment) to the Reef. The $2.8 million wetland investment has increased understanding of the role wetlands play in reducing nutrients entering the Reef.
#End of Partnership Targets
Conservation and protection of less disturbed catchments
Increase in Traditional-Owner-led water quality improvement projects
The Protection and Conservation Workstream resulted in:
- Improved understanding of catchment water quality in Eastern Cape York and the sources of sediment discharged to the reef
- Demonstrated results of best management practices to address legacy issues on going threats, including control of erosion from roads, tracks gullies and fire management practices
- Enhanced capacity and collaboration of local organisations, Traditional Owners and other land managers in catchment management practices for water quality improvement and delivery of projects by local people into the future
- Priorities identified for future investment in catchment management for water quality and aquatic habitats in Eastern Cape York
- Reduced erosion and anthropogenic sediment loads in the Annan River towards the ‘Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan’ target of 10% reduction by 2050.
Image: Sunset over the mouth of the Endeavour River by Jessie Price
#Priorities for Investment
Eastern Cape York Water Quality Program
The $8.5 million Eastern Cape York Water Quality Program (ECY WQP) supported the objectives and implementation of the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan 2017-2022.
Wetlands
The $2.8 million wetland investment has increased understanding of the role wetlands play in reducing nutrients entering the Reef.