Nutrients derived from a variety of sources such as soils, fertiliser application, sewage outlets and runoff from livestock enter Australian waterways and provide opportunities for algae to multiply. Resultant algal blooms, occurring in both fresh and estuarine waters, can cause oxygen depletion and in some cases produce toxins lethal to stock and humans. Algal blooms are occurring more frequently in Australia's waterways.

The National Eutrophication Management Programme (NEMP)  researched ways to reduce the frequency and intensity of harmful or undesirable algal blooms in Australian waterways. It has identified key R&D gaps and is funding work on both generic topics and via four focus catchments: Wilson Inlet (WA), Fitzroy (Qld), upper Namoi (NSW) and Goulburn Broken (Vic).

Research focussed on: 

• nutrient sources and transport;
• nutrient bio-availability;
• factors initiating algal blooms;
• the role of sediments, and storm and bushfire events; and
• evaluation of the effectiveness of management actions.

The Programme formally concluded in 2000. 

However, research on eutrophication management issues is continuing through the National River Contaminants Programme 

Collaborating organisations

Lead agency

Land & Water Australia

Funding partner

Murray Darling Basin Commission

For further information contact: Brendan Edgar