State of the Rivers projects provide 'snapshots' of the ecological and physical condition of Queensland streams. The method used in these projects was developed in 1992 by Dr. John Anderson.The aim of the projects is to assess the physical and environmental condition of streams at the time of survey, relative to their presumed natural or original condition.

Approach

The approach focuses on the attributes recognised as being important to instream and riparian fauna and flora, and is designed to be independent of flow conditions and water levels at the time of survey. Intensive surveys are carried out on a catchment by catchment basis—data is then analysed to determine individual and overall condition ratings.

Condition ratings are produced for the following attributes:

• Reach environs condition
• Bank condition
• Bed and bar condition
• Channel habitat diversity
• Riparian vegetation condition
• Aquatic vegetation condition
• Aquatic habitat condition
• Scenic and recreational value
• Conservation value

Methodology

The aim of the methodology is to:

• obtain data that accurately describes the condition of the streams surveyed
• provide a way of identifying the extent and possible causes of stream degradation, and the potential for problems to exist.

The methodology does not establish current or historical trends, nor does it indicate the rate of change in stream condition. However, historical trends may be obtained due to the rapid survey approach employed by State of the Rivers projects.

Reporting

After a survey, a State of the Rivers report describing the physical and ecological condition of a catchments streams is produced, including:

• a comprehensive data base of data sheet information
• an extensive library of site photographs.

Further information

For further information on research activities, or to obtain copies of State of the Rivers reports, contact:

Environmental Scientist
Aquatic Ecosystems
Natural Resource Sciences
Department of Natural Resources and Water
Phone: (07) 3896 9519

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