| Key indicators |
Indicator compliance |
% compliance |
|
|
0 |
|
|
0 |
|
|
29 |
|
|
47 |
|
|
0 |
| ■ <0.5 × water quality objective |
| ■ 0.5-1.0 × water quality objective |
| ■ 1.0-1.5 × water quality objective |
| ■ ≥1.5 × water quality objective |
|
As in previous years, the Albert estuary
received an “F” grade in the 2009 Report Card. However, the system did
improve slightly with increased (but still low) compliance for
Chl-a (29% compared with 12% in 2007/2008) and DO (47%
compliance compared with 40% in 2007/2008). As in previous years,
nutrients (TN, TP) and turbidity failed to comply with QWQ objectives
throughout the reporting period. However, median TP concentrations,
although well above QWQ guidelines were the lowest so far recorded for
most of this system since the EHMP began. Nutrient concentrations peak
in the lower reaches of the estuary near to the Beenleigh WWTP
discharge. As a result, dissolved oxygen levels are lowest in the same
reaches likely because of high microbial respiration. The problems of
this estuary are compounded by its rising from another estuary with
poor water quality (Logan).
Overall, 48% of the Albert estuary contains
unmodified riparian habitat with the majority of that found in the
intertidal zone. Behind the intertidal zone, much of the riparian
habitat has been removed or modified for agricultural, residential or
recreational purposes.
Abbreviations glossary |
Indicators and methods
|
