Training the next generation of waterway stewards in Tenterfield

Tenterfield Landcare, in partnership with OzFish and Backtrack Youthworks, has launched a hands-on project aimed at improving water quality and riparian health in the Tenterfield region. This initiative empowers local youth and community groups with the skills and knowledge needed to monitor and protect their waterways.

Who’s behind the project?

The project is the result of a collaboration between OzFish, Backtrack Youthworks, and Tenterfield Landcare Group. Together, these organisations are combining expertise in conservation, education, and community outreach to deliver a project that builds local knowledge and encourages active environmental stewardship.

Equipping young people to enhance fisheries

Through practical training sessions, participants from Backtrack Youthworks are learning water quality testing techniques guided by OzFish experts. This hands-on approach not only develops real-world skills but also highlights the importance of monitoring catchment health.

The project also delivers broader community resources, including an easy-to-use water quality checklist designed for schools and community groups to encourage ongoing citizen science. Additionally, volunteers are restoring key riparian zones by planting over 200 native vegetation seedlings to improve fish habitat and waterway resilience.

Healthy rivers, healthy fish

Waterways in the Tenterfield region face mounting challenges from poor water quality and habitat loss, putting native fish species and biodiversity at risk. By involving youth and community members in monitoring and restoration, the project is addressing these issues while fostering a deeper connection between people and their local environment.

This initiative ensures that the next generation is equipped to understand and protect aquatic ecosystems, making environmental care part of everyday community life.

Growing skills, growing fisheries

Beyond water testing, the project contributes to long-term habitat improvement through riparian planting and restoration. Healthy riparian zones are crucial for supporting native fish and wildlife, improving water quality, and building resilience against environmental pressures. By blending education with action, the Tenterfield Landcare team is helping to create lasting environmental change, one seedling and one water test at a time.

The project is part of the Driving Fish Habitat Action partnership between OzFish and Landcare NSW. Funding for this project was provided with grants from the Recreational Fishing Trust and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Developments’ Recreational Fishing Trust’s Habitat Action Grant Program. These grant programs are financed from funds generated through the sale of the recreational fishing licence fee in NSW and managed by NSW DPIRD Fisheries, on behalf of the Recreational Fishing Trust. Key contributors included the Tenterfield Landcare Group, in collaboration with Backtrack Youthworks and BCF – Boating, Camping, and Fishing.