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Clean Rivers and Waterways

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Working together for clean rivers

Clean Rivers and Waterways is a collaborative initiative bringing together communities, First Nations, landholders, councils, researchers, environmental organisations and government agencies to improve the health of rivers, creeks, estuaries and the marine environments they connect to.

Supported by funding from the South Australian Government, the project combines community-led restoration with the development of a shared framework to guide future investment and action for healthier waterways.

By working together, partners aim to improve water quality, restore river and estuary health, and support communities to care for waterways for future generations.

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Why clean rivers matter

Many rivers, creeks, estuaries and near-shore marine environments across South Australia are affected by sediment and nutrient runoff from urban and agricultural catchments. Over time, much of the native vegetation that once protected waterways, filtered pollutants and stabilised streambanks has been removed. 

The recent harmful algal bloom event has reinforced the importance of healthy catchments and waterways. Improving river and catchment health helps reduce the pressures that contribute to declining water quality and downstream impacts on estuaries, coasts and marine ecosystems. This work delivers benefits not only for nature, but also for communities, agriculture, recreation and local economies.

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What we are doing

Community-led restoration

Clean Rivers and Waterways will begin on-ground restoration with communities in Pedlar Creek, Hackham Creek, Maslin Creek, Carrickalinga Creek, the Bungala River and northern Kangaroo Island catchments.

Working with landholders, First Nations, councils and local partners, the project will deliver practical actions such as revegetation, weed control, streambank stabilisation, and improved management of stormwater and agricultural runoff. These efforts will help improve water quality, restore habitat and strengthen the health and resilience of rivers, creeks and estuaries.

A shared framework for action

Alongside on-ground restoration, partners are developing the SA Clean Rivers Framework to guide future investment and action across South Australia. The Framework will bring together science, community knowledge and practical experience to identify priority catchments, restoration opportunities, shared outcomes and agreed measures of success. It will help align partners around a common approach to improving river and catchment health over the long term.

Get in touch

Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu is coordinating the Clean Rivers and Waterways project on behalf of partners. To find out more about the project, upcoming activities or opportunities to get involved, please contact us.

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