Reef 2035 | Sediment Reduction in the Wet Tropics

REEF 2035 SEDIMENT REDUCTION

REDUCING SEDIMENT RUNOFF TO THE REEF

Overview

This six-year project has a target to prevent 21,000 tonnes of fine sediment (silt and clay) from reaching the Great Barrier Reef each year through engineered erosion solutions and improved land management practices. It is targeting the biggest erosion sites across the whole of the Wet Tropics that represent a high risk to water quality affecting the reef. It is not remediating flood damaged riverbanks (this is addressed by other government funding). Sites are being prioritised in alignment with government objectives.

Background

Fine sediment is one of the major pollutants affecting the Reef. The main sources are eroding streambanks, gullies and hillslopes and due to high rainfall, eroding streambanks are currently the biggest source of sediment in the Wet Tropics.

Solutions

Environmental engineered solutions
Gully remediation
Revegetation
Grazing land management – workshops for landholders

Locations

Across the Wet Tropics

Partners

Landholders
Local contractors and service providers
Industry partners
Traditional Owners

Benefits of this project

Prevent further loss of productive farm land
Shore up sites from future heavy rainfall
Prevent channelling
Improved water quality flowing to the Reef.
Improved biodiversity, landscape connectivity and fish habitat.

How it will work

Erosion sites will be identified from local knowledge, satellite and aerial imagery and boat trips.
Volume of potential sediment loss will be calculated and combined with biodiversity, social and cultural values to prioritise sites.
Landholders will be asked for support.
Designs will be drafted and agreed prior to implementation.
Scientists will measure outcomes.

Funders

This project is funded through the Australian Government’s Reef Trust program.