Where is the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, and what makes it so special? Who are the Traditional Owners of the Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment? Who lives around the river, and why is it significant? Why is it important to protect the whole Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment, not just the river channel? Why are flood and drought so important in the Martuwarra Fitzroy River system? Why is groundwater so important to the Martuwarra Fitzroy River? How much surface water and groundwater does the river need to stay healthy? Who takes water from the river and its aquifers, and why? Who controls or manages the catchment area and its water resources? What is the cultural significance of the Martuwarra for Traditional Owners?

Why are flood and drought so important in the Martuwarra Fitzroy River system?

Flood and drought are necessary aspects of the Martuwarra Fitzroy system. Wet-season floods reconnect river pools, link the river to its floodplain, fill wetlands, move nutrients and energy through the system, and recharge some aquifers.

Watch: Desert River. The boom-bust life of the Martuwarra Fitzroy.

These seasonal extremes are especially important for species such as freshwater sawfish and barramundi. In the dry season, when surface water is low, permanent deep pools – often supported by groundwater – provide a refuge. In the wet season, renewed connectivity between pools, floodplains, the river and the estuary allows movement and access to habitat across the system.   

This means that both surface floodwaters and groundwater are an essential part of the healthy functioning of Martuwarra Fitzroy and its ecosystems. 

The Martuwarra river from above while flooding

Image credit: Wendy Mitchell | Environs Kimberley

The WA Government is accepting public submissions until June 30th on its draft water plan that will shape the future of the Martuwarra for generations.

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