We use monitoring, evaluation and research to assess environmental outcomes and inform adaptive management, using the below indicators that reflect the health of the Basin.
Read more about our Evaluation and Research work here
River Flows and Connectivity
Native Vegetation
Waterbirds
Native Fish
Cultural Outcomes
Species Diversity
Ecosystem Diversity
Food Webs and Water Quality
We work along 10 river systems within the Basin, conducting targeted monitoring and research to understand local ecosystem responses and inform water management practices. The data is also used to help inform Basin Evaluation.
Border, Barwon & Namoi
Darling and Warrego
Goulburn River and Northern Victorian Tributaries
Gwydir
Lachlan
Lower Balonne
Lower Murray and Coorong, Lower Lakes, and Murray Mouth
Macquarie River and Marshes
Mid-Murray
Murrumbidgee
Learn more about the current research projects of the Flow-MER Program.
It wasn’t that long ago that freshwater mussels numbered in their “hundreds of thousands” throughout the Murray-Darling Basin. Now, researchers use sonar to find them, aiming to restore these vital filter feeders to their former glory.
Following severe floods, environmental water creates refuge patches in the Edward/Kolety River, helping fish survive hypoxic blackwater conditions.
Despite floods and road closures, a dedicated team monitors the Edward/Kolety–Wakool river system, gathering crucial data to understand flood impacts.
Floodwaters revive ephemeral creeks in the Edward/Kolety–Wakool system, creating vital habitats for native species and sparking new ecological research.
At Four Posts Camp, a Riverside community field day brings together over 75 people to share knowledge, enjoy hands-on activities, and celebrate collaboration.