Swan Canning River Protection Strategy.

The Swan Canning River Protection Strategy (2015), developed under the Swan and Canning Rivers Management Act 2006, aims to protect and enhance the ecological and community benefits of the Riverpark through coordinated management. The vision for the Swan Canning Riverpark is to maintain a healthy river that can be enjoyed by all, now and in the future. The Strategy covers three areas: the Riverpark, the DCA, and the Swan Canning Catchment. The DCA includes the waterways and adjoining parks, with land use planning subject to approval by Parks and Wildlife.
The Riverpark's catchment area has been heavily impacted by agriculture and development, leading to contamination from pollutants. Changes to the river mouth and water systems have transformed it into an estuarine system, with altered water flows and declining groundwater levels. These changes have caused algal blooms, fish deaths, and the presence of contaminants like metals and pesticides. A drying climate has worsened these issues, making the rivers more vulnerable to oxygen depletion and other threats. Invasive species and inadequate setbacks have led to the replacement of natural shorelines with engineered river walls, requiring ongoing maintenancece. To address these challenges, a coordinated management approach is essential (Part Two of the document details the responsibilities of different organizations). The strategy focuses on achieving better coordination, a healthy river ecosystem, improved community engagement and enjoyment, and better management. Specific actions to support these outcomes are detailed in Part Three of the document.