Reef water quality protection plan: scoping of issues associated with industry practices

Recognising the significant body of scientific research that indicates the Great Barrier Reef is being harmed by changes in its catchment, this report investigates ways in which changes to land use and land management practices could make an important contribution to lowering the environmental stress on the reef system. The goal of the research was to identify the realities and complexities of farmers’ situations and understand the barriers, triggers and support required for change. The study also provides an insight into which approaches to education and learning are likely to be most effective in supporting change. By engaging farmers in inquiry-based learning, ARIES has identified a number of key issues that may block future progress. The research involved the collection of information but also provided an opportunity for capacity building. Farmers had a key opportunity to reflect on sustainable practices related to water-quality impacts on the reef. This project was headed by key leaders in this field – Professor Alistair Gilmour at the Graduate School of the Environment, Macquarie University and Greg Walkerden, Director of Batkin Walkerden Associates.