Project Update - June 2026

Kyogle Council's Upper Richmond Waterway and Wetland Health Assessment and Action Plan continues to progress, with an initial draft of the Waterway and Wetland Health Assessment now submitted to Council.

The Health Assessment has focused on understanding the current condition of waterways and wetlands across the catchment by investigating what is happening, where it is occurring, and why. The project is now moving into the Action Plan phase, which focuses on answering the question: "What can we do about it?" The Action Plan will identify and prioritise practical management and rehabilitation actions to improve waterway and wetland health across the upper Richmond River catchment.

As part of the project, a successful Fluvial Geomorphology and Stream Management Training Course was held on 27 May, attended by approximately 40 waterway practitioners from across the region. The course provided an introduction to river processes, stream management principles, waterway assessment approaches, and options for prioritising and delivering effective rehabilitation outcomes. The training was offered to help build local capacity and support long-term implementation of the Action Plan.

Two new project resources are now available on the website:

Background Review (Part 1) was prepared at the outset of the project to review existing knowledge of the catchment and major management initiatives already underway. It provided the foundation for the Waterway and Wetland Health Assessment by helping ensure the project aligned with, and built upon, previous studies, programs and investments.
Methods Review (Part 2) was also developed during Stage 1 and examines existing frameworks and approaches for assessing waterway and wetland health. The review informed the assessment methods adopted for this project and helped guide the development of a fit-for-purpose approach for the upper Richmond River catchment.

We encourage community members and stakeholders to continue following the project's progress via this website, where you can access project resources, explore the interactive map and stay informed about upcoming project milestones.