Wetlands
Australia is a continent of variety. Fertile coastal areas of the east have high annual rainfall and water flows are regular. But about 70 per cent of the continent is arid or semi-arid, adapted to periods of drought and flood. Rivers and lakes may be dry for many months or even years - but with heavy rain, vast areas become floodplains, teeming with life.
Water management is one of the great issues facing Australia. When we regulate the flow of water through dams and weirs, or take water from rivers and wetlands, we affect the plants and animals that rely on natural water flows and periods of drought. Wetlands are important to animals, plants, people and the natural environment.
What are wetlands? Where are they in NSW?
Not all of the state's wetlands are permanently wet: in inland areas, they are generally adapted to natural cycles of wetting and drying. Find out more about the distribution of wetlands in NSW.
Why are wetlands important?
Wetlands are valuable to plants, animals and human beings. Find out more.
Threats to wetlands
Learn about the key threats to wetlands in NSW.
Ramsar wetlands
Ramsar wetlands are internationally significant sites. They are listed in the Ramsar Convention, which plays a key role in their conservation and wise use. Find out more, and learn about the Ramsar sites in NSW.
Find out more about wetlands
Get links to other wetland resources, including Water Information Systems for the Environment (WISE). Find out how you can protect your local wetlands.