Condition of estuarine ecosystem health

Healthy Land and Water South East Queensland report card

The Healthy Land and Water Report Card reports on indicators of estuarine health across major catchment areas in South East Queensland (SEQ).

Queensland Government scientists collect data measuring water quality, fish, algae or nutrients are indicators of estuary health that help assess the overall condition of the waterway.

Substantial erosion from historic and current land management practices cause sediment or mud to enter waterways, particularly during rain. Sediment reduces water clarity, blocking out light for animal and plant life.

The 2017 report card used methodology from 2015 to calculate environmental grades, including the impact from sediment, habitat extent such as riparian vegetation, and the social and economic benefits of waterways. It also highlights management actions to improve waterway health. Each catchment was graded although no overall grade was assigned for Moreton Bay’s ecosystem health. Report card grades vary significantly across estuaries, ranging from ‘good’ to ‘poor’ condition, heavily affected by land use and development, with sediment a major pressure.

• No estuary failed the environmental condition grade.
• Caboolture catchment had the most intact estuarine habitat in SEQ in 2017.
• Seagrass in Moreton Bay was growing at greater depths in 2017 due to improved water clarity.

More information:

• Healthy Land and Water South East Queensland Report Card
• Healthy Land and Water South East Queensland