Making a lasting impact one tree at a time

Stream Restoration

Stream Restoration Program

Under the Stream Restoration Program, GeoCatch are able to offer funding to livestock farmers in the Geographe Catchment to install stock-proof fencing along waterways on their property, with the option to revegetate with local native species. Funding can also include off-stream watering points for stock.

We have assisted farmers with stream restoration for over 20 years, resulting in over 500km of riparian fencing and revegetation in the Geographe Bay Catchment.

To be eligible for funding under the Stream Restoration Program you are required to:

Farm in the Geographe catchment;
Run livestock;
Be situated on a waterway or drain.

Why fence your waterway?

Many of our precious waterways are heavily eroded, have high pollution and nutrient loads and minimal remnant vegetation to support biodiversity.

The majority of our creeks, drains and rivers run through private farming properties. Managing the riparian, or riverbank, environments along these waterways is critical to improving water quality and protecting local biodiversity.

Excluding livestock from waterways plays a vital role in improving water quality by protecting the integrity of existing vegetation, preventing bank erosion and reducing impurities from entering the waterway.

Why revegetate your waterway?

Once fencing is installed, farmers are supported to undertake revegetation in riparian zones which improves bank stability, filters pollutants, promotes native biodiversity and enhances the overall ecological function of the waterway.

Revegetating your waterways can benefit both your farm and the catchment:

For your farm – Creates windbreaks, provides shade and cooling for livestock, improves soil stability, and assists with drainage.
For waterways – Filters nutrients, improves water quality, stabilises banks, and creating habitat to support local biodiversity.

You can learn more about the benefits of fencing and revegetating your waterways via the handy Healthy Estuaries WA fact sheet linked below.

How the program works

Site visit – A GeoCatch Sustainable Agriculture Officer will meet with you to assess your property and discuss project ideas.
Project plan – Together, we’ll design a fencing/revegetation plan tailored to your waterway and farming needs.
Support – GeoCatch provides fencing materials, seedlings, planting equipment (tree guards, stakes, etc.), and pays all plant and equipment costs.
On-ground works – You install the fence, prepare the site, plant the seedlings, and carry out maintenance such as watering and weeding.

Expression of Interest

Want to start your own stream restoration project?

The GeoCatch Stream Restoration Program is now accepting Expressions of Interest for projects to be completed in 2027/2028. To apply, please click on the link below

Featured Resources

Capel River Action Plan 1999

Stream Restoration

Plan that outlines strategies to improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and reduce weeds and feral animals in the Capel River catchment.

Download

Buayanyup River Action Plan 2010

Stream Restoration

Plan that outlines strategies to improve water quality, enhance biodiversity, and reduce weeds and feral animals in the Buayanyup catchment

Download

Converting Dams into Living Wetlands

Stream Restoration, Sustainable Agriculture

Farm dams provide a fantastic opportunity to recreate habitats that were once provided by natural wetlands. This brochure provides some helpful hints for planning your restoration project.

Download