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.
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Precise inundation mapping is key to tracking environmental water movement in the Murray-Darling Basin. Experts combine satellite imagery, hydrology data and local insights to map wetlands and streams, ensuring effective water management and habitat protection for native species.
Researchers are using AI to predict habitat conditions for threatened species like frogs and waterbirds, helping guide environmental water management. Learn how data-driven models improve decision-making for protecting the southern bell frog.
This Flow-MER project developed a structured framework for assessing the condition of non-woody vegetation that incorporates ecological data and social values.
Acoustic recorders capture the diverse bird calls at Narran Lakes, revealing the rich avian life and helping scientists monitor and protect these vital wetlands.
Southern bell frogs are making a comeback in the Lower Murrumbidgee floodplain, thanks to targeted conservation efforts and environmental water deliveries.
A decade of monitoring in the Guwayda Wetlands reveals how environmental water supports diverse species, from frogs and fish to flowering coolibah trees.
High rainfall in 2022-23 led to extensive flooding in the Murray-Darling Basin, boosting wetland health and supporting diverse plant and animal species.
A decade of monitoring in the Warrego-Darling reveals how environmental water supports diverse species, from frogs and fish to flowering coolibah trees.
Rangers at Gayini Nimmie-Caira connect to Country, protect endangered species, and share cultural knowledge, fostering a vibrant, thriving ecosystem.
PhD student Emmalie Sanders studies rakali in the Murrumbidgee, uncovering their habits and habitats to aid conservation efforts for these unique water rats.
Scientists use audio recorders to track the elusive Australasian bittern, revealing how water management can boost breeding success in key wetlands.
