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What is riparian land?

Riparian land is that which runs along rivers, creeks, estuaries, lakes and wetlands;. It acts as a transition between the aquatic environment of the waterway and the surrounding landscape. It is critical to healthy waterways. Riparian land can vary in width from a narrow strip to a wide corridor.

Riparian land offers the following benefits:

  • provides habitat to native plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects
  • assists in preventing contaminants and sediment (including bushfire ash) reaching waterways
  • reduces erosion, as the roots of plants anchor soil on the riverbanks
  • influences water temperature and limits water evaporation
  • holds cultural and spiritual values to First Nations people
  • leisure sites for recreational activities such as fishing, picnics and bushwalking.

In regional landscapes that are dominated by farmland, the riparian native vegetation provides crucial wildlife corridors. Fencing is often used to stop grazing animals from accessing these landscapes. Without fencing, these larger farm animals could destroy vegetation, cause erosion on riverbanks and contaminate water supplies. This is a significant issue in Victoria. Reducing stock access also helps maintain the biodiversity of these areas.

We need to carefully manage these spaces to ensure their future sustainability. This includes access for recreation and other human activities.

Case study

Overgrowth of invasive species such as willows can harm native species in riparian areas and create an inaccessible landscape. The removal of willow trees has been necessary in many regions, including in headwater streams in Gippsland.

West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (CMA)

In this video, see how their work protects and improves the riparian ecosystem and its biodiversity.

Watch the video

Willow headwater works at North Central CMA (4:59)

Meet the expert

Peter Vollebergh manages the Riparian River Channel Program at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA). He discusses his role in protecting waterway health across Victoria as well as what he has learnt from over 30 years working in water.

Source: DEECA

Photo essay

Further resources

Below you can find a variety of resources to further research and understand riparian landscapes.

Anglers supporting the Steavenson River Marysville – working to provide a healthy habitat for healthy fish.

Caring for the Campaspe – North Central Catchment Management Authority discuss with Michael Gardner about this project.

Local landholders looking after the Agnes River Toora North – willow removal and revegetation efforts with help from West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority.

Nurturing a Rainbow, Managing the Thomson – West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority explain how the Cowwarr Weir was built to manage Rainbow Creek.

Traditional Owners looking after waterways at Tyrendarra – improving and protecting the Fitzroy River and Darlot Creek.

Tullaroop Catchment Ron Cosgrave – North Central Catchment Management Authority and farmer Ron Cosgrave talk improvements to Birch's Creek.

Willows on the Mitchell River – East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority discuss how willows impact river health.

Page last updated: 14/08/25