Ecosystem Health Index Report

Fitzroy Basin Ecosystem Health Index Report Card

Indicators

Phys-Chem

Nutrients

Toxicants

Ecology

Trends

Confidence

very low
low
moderate
high
very high

Summary of Results for 2013-14

After three years of significant wet seasons, lower than average rainfall for 2013-14 reduced river flows and influenced catchment results. Drought conditions in the west brought about declines in ground cover, particularly in the Nogoa, Comet and Theresa catchments. Many western catchments went without significant flows all year, which contributed to decreases in scores for the Comet, Theresa and Upper Isaac catchments. Results for the Lower Dawson, Nogoa, Connors and Mackenzie catchments improved. Large floods and associated sediment plumes of previous years were not a factor in 2013-14, which resulted in improved scores for the Estuary.

The Report Card grades have been drawn from more than 1.2 million sample results at more than 155 sites across the Basin. The independent Science Panel has endorsed the results as the best available scientific information. Relying on monitoring data from third parties presents an ongoing challenge. The Partnership is committed to addressing data gaps in the future, especially for the ecological indicators of ecosystem health.


"Providing a more complete picture of river health for the Fitzroy Basin."