Restoring the ecological value of springs forming part of the groundwater dependent ecosystems of the Great Artesian Basin

Overview

This project will protect and restore fragile spring wetlands that form part of the Great Artesian Basin groundwater system in the Northern Gulf of Carpentaria. These springs are rare groundwater-dependent ecosystems that support unique plant and animal communities and hold significant cultural value for Traditional Owners, while also providing important water sources within pastoral landscapes. Many Great Artesian Basin spring ecosystems are recognised as Threatened Ecological Communities under national environmental legislation, making their protection a priority.

The project focuses on improving the ecological condition of spring wetlands through practical threat reduction and targeted monitoring. Fencing will exclude livestock and feral pigs from sensitive wetland areas, alternative watering points will reduce pressure on springs, and invasive weeds will be controlled. These actions will be supported by ecological surveys, water quality monitoring and emerging tools such as eDNA and bioacoustic monitoring to better understand biodiversity in these poorly studied ecosystems.

By combining on-ground restoration with scientific monitoring and landholder collaboration, the project will improve the health of Great Artesian Basin spring wetlands while building knowledge to guide long-term management of these rare and nationally significant ecosystems.

Secondary themes