WetlandInfo
Overview
WetlandInfo is the first stop-shop for wetland information in Queensland. It provides a range of tools and resources to assist with the sustainable management of wetlands.
WetlandInfo:
- covers all aspects of wetlands management, from policy and legislation to monitoring and the provision of on-ground management resources
- provides resources for the mapping and classification of wetlands
- provides tools for assessing and rehabilitating wetlands.
Making effective wetlands decisions requires ready access to integrated wetlands decision tools, a service WetlandInfo provides. It is a single, comprehensive site hosting the latest wetland management tools and resources, including the following.
- Detailed maps and spatial data illustrate wetlands’ distribution, classification and characteristics across Queensland, plus multiple supporting datasets and applications (such as Wetland mapping, Catchment Stories and the Wetlands Insight Tool).
- Information about guidelines, policies and best practices for preserving and rehabilitating wetland areas, including interactive tools (such as rehabilitation plans and details on existing rehabilitation projects for Queensland wetlands).
- Resources designed for educators, students and the community to enhance their understanding and support of wetland ecosystems and their significance (including education modules for many aspects of wetlands and wetlands management and comprehensive information on ecosystem services).
- A hub of information and updates on current research, monitoring and scientific findings for wetlands (including detailed information on ecological processes and components and Aquatic Conservation Assessments).
- Support for policy and legislation by maintaining a Legislation Toolbox (built and maintained by wetlands and legislation experts).
Targets
- WetlandInfo has 1,600-2,000 daily sessions by a wide range of user groups worldwide, most from Australia, followed by the USA, India, United Kingdom and Canada.
- WetlandInfo is subject to a Service Delivery Standard (SDS) measure for efficiency, determined through the cost per session. This service standard measures the efficiency of providing WetlandInfo (per user session) compared with the total staff and related costs in maintaining the system.
This SDS is measured and reported quarterly, with WetlandInfo cost per session.
Outcomes
- WetlandInfo has saved time and money by providing easy-to-access and understandable, up-to-date information to wetland managers, helping ensure the best management practices are undertaken.
- The cost per session has reduced significantly over the last seven years from $3 to $0.65 per session, indicating the increasing need and use of the site’s resources and the excellent value the site provides.
- WetlandInfo directly promotes Queensland wetlands, contributes to a better understanding of wetlands, and builds the capacity of wetland managers, catchment managers and the community.
- The site increases public awareness and understanding of wetlands, strengthens community engagement and stewardship, and supports wetland protection, rehabilitation and management, leading to stronger environmental outcomes.
- WetlandInfo supports evidence-based decision-making by providing information, tools and mapping that is easily and freely accessible to wetland managers.
