Product Information

Riparian condition refers to the degree to which human-altered ecosystems diverge from local semi-natural ecosystems in their ability to support a community of organisms and perform ecological functions. The Rapid Appraisal of Riparian Condition assesses the ecological condition of riparian habitats using indicators that reflect functional aspects of the physical, community and landscape features of the riparian zone.

The Rapid Appraisal of Riparian Condition index is made up of five sub-indices, each with a number of indicators: Habitat continuity and extent (HABITAT), Vegetation cover and structural complexity (COVER), Dominance of natives versus exotics (NATIVES), Standing dead trees, hollows, fallen logs and leaf litter (DEBRIS), and Indicative features (FEATURES).

The Rapid Appraisal of Riparian Condition has been tested in three areas in southeastern Australia: on the Murrumbidgee River, in Gippsland, and in the Goulburn- Broken catchment. In all three areas, there was a strong negative relationship between grazing intensity and riparian condition.

Please note, this product supercedes PR040656.