Project 1: Enhancing Water Security & Biodiversity through Dam and Riparian Rehabilitation
Project 1 focuses on rehabilitating dams and riparian zones (vegetated areas around waterways and dams) to improve water quality, reduce erosion, increase biodiversity, and support climate resilience in viticulture.
Our role includes supporting the coordination and delivery of:
- Expert ecological assessments of selected sites across key wine regions (Margaret River, Great Southern)
- Co-funded on-ground works, including fencing, weed control, and revegetation with native species
- Integration of First Nations knowledge in land and water management
- Monitoring programs to track improvements in water quality and biodiversity
- Knowledge-sharing activities, including regional field days, training resources, and case studies
These demonstration sites serve as practical examples of best practice riparian and dam rehabilitation. They are part of a broader strategy to enhance water security and natural capital across WA’s wine-producing landscapes.
Funding for on-ground works is delivered through a matched co-contribution model, where landholders contribute cash and in-kind resources (such as labour, materials, or equipment use). The estimated program support per site is between $140,000 and $160,000, depending on the region.
We gratefully acknowledge the Australian Government, through the Natural Heritage Trust and Climate-Smart Agriculture Program, for their support in making this initiative possible. This work also builds on strong partnerships with regional bodies and producers, ensuring lasting environmental and industry-wide benefits.
To find out more, please contact Sustainability and Industry Development Program Manager Eloise Jarvis at [email protected] 0447 587 151 Or Sustainability Industry Engagement Officer Lucy Nankervis [email protected]
This project is proudly supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program under the Natural Heritage Trust