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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Young ecologists in Lake Cargelligo learn about freshwater ecosystems, monitor fish and plants, and enjoy hands-on environmental science.
Discover how science guides the use of water to sustain rivers, wetlands, and floodplains in the Murray-Darling Basin, ensuring a healthier environment.
In the Gwydir and Warrego-Darling regions, new Cultural Advisors Liz Taylor and Kevin Knight are bridging traditional knowledge and modern science to enhance community engagement.
In the Lowbidgee, aquatic meadows flourish with diverse plants and wildlife, supported by innovative water management and community efforts.
In the Goulburn River, scientists measure stream metabolism to ensure environmental flows support vibrant ecosystems, balancing oxygen and nutrients.
At Moon Moon Swamp, diverse native plants thrive despite dry conditions, showcasing resilience and the impact of translucent water flows.
In the Lachlan River, native fish like hardyheads and smelt thrive in unique ecological niches, showcasing remarkable adaptations to their environment.
At Calperum Station, indigenous students learned traditional ecological practices from Elders, blending ancient knowledge with modern science to restore the Lower Murray.
Indigenous cadets in the Murrumbidgee catchment are blending cultural knowledge with science, enhancing wetland health and gaining valuable skills.
Recent floods allow us to explore aquatic food webs, highlighting how river flows and flooding boost productivity and support diverse aquatic life.
Aboriginal knowledge and environmental water are revitalizing native plants like Nardoo, Old Man Weed, and Cumbungi across the Murray-Darling Basin.
