Monday, December 6, 2010

Floodplains of Western Queensland

The spectacular channels and floodplains of the Lake Eyre Basin portion of Western Queensland are an important part of the river catchments. These floodplains allow Western Queensland graziers to opportunistically use the water that flows over the country side, to grow and fatten their livestock.


Indeed, floodplain meat production is one of the few food producing industries which coexists with a river and does not take or divert water out of the system. The water which is used, is that which occurs naturally as it spreads across the land. These floodplains are also home to may plant and animal communities which thrive in the 'boom and bust' cycle which follows large rain events.


Preservation of these floodplains and their episodic overland flow is important. At the moment, the floodplains are awash with recent water and fresh herbage and pastures. A truly pleasant sight!



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