A transdisciplinary approach supports community-led water quality monitoring in river basins adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef, Australia. (September 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tsatsaros, Julie H.; Bohnet, Iris C.; Brodie, Jon E.; Valentine, Peter
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 170(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-09
• Subjects: Biophysical -- Water quality -- Transdisciplinary -- Collaborative -- Indigenous; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112629
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: Water quality monitoring programs (WQMPs) are crucial for assessment of water quality in river basins where agricultural intensification and development raise concerns in freshwater and marine environments. WQMPs if supported by scientists and local communities, and if based on the knowledge needs of all stakeholders, can provide vital information supporting resource management actions. Our paper focuses on the transdisciplinary development and implementation of a community-led pilot WQMP for the Tully River basin, adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). The community-led pilot WQMP was established to fill some knowledge gaps identified during development of the Tully Water Quality Improvement Plan (WQIP) and to provide opportunities for active stakeholder participation in the monitoring. Results indicated some water quality parameters (i.e. nitrates and total phosphorus) had higher than expected values and exceeded state water quality guidelines. Hence, the results provided an evidence base for freshwater quality objective development to conserve, protect and improve water quality conditions in this basin and GBR. Leadership of Indigenous people in the pilot WQMP recognizes their deep desire to improve water resources outcomes and to care for country and people. Highlights: Implementation of a pilot water quality monitoring plan for the Tully River basin, adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef Evidence base for freshwater quality objective development to conserve, protect and improve water quality conditions Lessons learned provide useful guidance for developing collaborative approaches for effective water resources management Pilot WQMP may provide a useful template and may encourage greater acceptance and compliance of future management actions