Many freshwater wetlands and riverine ecosystems have been irreversibly degraded or removed entirely from the landscape over the last 200 years. The designation of protected areas in South East Queensland is undertaken to conserve and restore terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Achieving freshwater ecosystem conservation outcomes through protective measures requires a design that reflects the diverse elements of the waterscape. However, protection of freshwater biodiversity within designated areas is largely an outcome of association with terrestrial reserves. Assessing the diversity and types of freshwater ecosystems that are currently represented within the protected area footprint of South East Queensland can inform continued conservation planning.

Here's a snapshot of just some of the action over the past 5 years. These numbers will grow as more groups from across the region contribute their data.