The tools, resources and information we provide for water quality managers include water quality and river flow objectives, monitoring programs and support for local councils and decision-makers to manage water quality.
NSW Water Quality and River Flow Objectives
The NSW Water Quality and River Flow Objectives were developed for all major fresh and estuarine surface water catchments across New South Wales. They were developed in consultation with local communities and recognise the environmental values and uses people want protected in their waterways and represent ideal natural flow conditions for healthy rivers.
The NSW Water Quality Objectives include a range of water quality indicators to help us assess whether the current condition of our waterways supports the values and uses people want protected.
The NSW River Flow Objectives set out goals for surface water flow management and identify how river flow can protect river health and water quality.
A similar set of objectives are available for marine waters and are known as the Marine Water Quality Objectives.
Update of NSW Water Quality Objectives
We are reviewing the NSW Water Quality Objectives across coastal catchments to ensure they reflect contemporary community values and uses, and as a key action under Initiative 1 of the NSW Marine Estate Management Strategy 2018–2028.
We want to hear from you!
We’re updating the NSW Water Quality Objectives and want your feedback. Do you have an idea or comment to make about how you value and use your local waterways or other waterways in New South Wales?Send us your ideas and suggestions via email to: ourwaterways@environment.nsw.gov.au
Your feedback will inform the review of a part of the NSW Water Quality Objectives and the development of a guideline to help local councils or NSW Government agencies update their community’s environmental values and uses for waterways in New South Wales.