13 October 2023
By implementing farming practices that promote healthy water systems, landowners can improve stock health and crop yields by creating self-regulating aquatic ecosystems, flood resilient land and an eco-friendly environment, and Southern Downs Regional Council encourages the agricultural industry to consider sustainable water management practices to protect the region’s waterways and wetlands.
Council’s Director Environmental and Planning Scott Riley said the region’s waterways and wetlands are the life-blood of our rural communities, and all landholders have a role to play in protecting the quality of our natural and man-made water systems.
“The Southern Downs is home to magnificent soil and quality water that grow a variety of produce to support our local economy and agricultural industry,” Mr Riley said.
“Almost every process in a farming system relies on good quality water, and improving water quality on our farms increases outputs and nurtures the ecological systems that supports the farming venture, the agricultural industry and the local economy.
“Our rivers, creeks, wetlands and lakes also provide us with safe drinking water, enable recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, and boating, provide habitat for unique flora and fauna, and sustain ecosystems that enable our crops and stock to thrive.”
Want to know more about how to care for the waterways and wetlands? Visit www.sdrc.qld.gov.au to download The Waterway and Wetlands on Farms information sheet which provides some great practical advice on how to protect our waterways, keep our soils on our paddocks and improve water quality.
A key focus for the Southern Downs is how to use our water system more efficiently and identify opportunities to increase our supply and secure our independence. Visit
https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/living-here/environment-water-waste/environmental-sustainability/environmental-sustainability-strategy/valuing-water for more information.
Last edited date 13 Oct 2023