Sustainable aquatic systems

Impactful research that contributes to the long term viability and health of our fragile aquatic systems.

This program is dedicated to conducting impactful research that promotes the long-term viability and health of our delicate aquatic systems. Leveraging our existing expertise in environmental water and fisheries, we collaborate with our water engineering team to identify novel technologies and approaches that enhance water security, improve water quality, and preserve the cultural significance of our surface and groundwater systems.

All key projects

Key initiatives

Inland Fisheries Research Group (IFRG)

The IFRG undertakes research to inform the development of fish passage technologies, such as fish ladders, supporting the migration of critical fish species, ensuring the long-term sustainability of river infrastructure projects.

Key projects

Fish highways to maintain fishing income and food sources in South East Asia

Harvesting fish migrations in South-East (SE) Asia has long been an integral part of most rural community's livelihood systems. Fish are a main protein source and trade/barter commodity, as well as being a vital source of micronutrients in diets. But the barrier impacts posed by dam infrastructure on fish migrations can be significant.

In progress

Modernizing irrigated agriculture to protect and restore aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem services in SE Asia

Billions of dollars have been invested into irrigation programs in Southeast Asia. Recent growing awareness of the benefits of multi-functional ecosystems, has led to an opportunity to apply considerable Australian expertise and technology to aquatic ecosystem management in the region.

In progress

Murrumbidgee river and floodplains; supporting ecosystems and biodiversity

The Murrumbidgee Monitoring, Evaluation and Research (MER) Program is the primary means by which the Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) is monitoring and evaluating the ecological outcomes of Commonwealth environmental watering actions.

In progress

Citizen Science - FIsh tagging and recovery

Dams and weirs have fragmented river ecosystems leading to a dramatic decline in native fish populations as fish are unable to complete their spawning migrations. Fish tagging and the tracking of fish movements across the basin has led to improved data collection enabling better decisions in river management.

In progress

Stocky galaxias captive breeding program

The Stocky Galaxias is considered to be one of Australia’s most threatened freshwater fishes and at risk of extinction in the next 20 years. A captive breeding program is being undertaken at CSU to help save the species.

In progress

Assessing fisheries mitigation measures at Xayaburi Dam in Lao PDR

The world’s most productive inland fishery - the Lower Mekong Basin fishery - is currently under threat from the proposed development of eleven dams on the main stem of the Mekong River.

In progress
Inland Fisheries Group

Fisheries monitoring in the Mekong

This project will test existing guidelines and provide recommendations for sustainable fish pass monitoring methodologies in the Mekong River Basin.

In progress
Inland Fisheries Group

Program Leader

Program leader (interim) Professor Lee Baumgartner focuses on irrigation and hydropower sustainability; applying innovation to ensure river communities can have food, water and energy.

Campus Albury -Wodonga

Lee Baumgartner

directorgulbali@csu.edu.au

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At Charles Sturt University Gulbali Institute, we are committed to making a difference and conducting world-class research into the sustainability of our rivers for future generations.

Our projects focus on maximising fisheries returns for food security, restoring connectivity at a landscape scale, and understanding how to protect and maintain wetland and freshwater communities in a changing world, with a particular focus on species conservation.

We recognise the critical importance of preserving our natural resources and the need for sustainable practices that will ensure the health and well-being of our planet for years to come. We are dedicated to making a positive impact through our research, and we invite you to join us in our efforts to protect our rivers and their ecosystems.

Mitigating the impact of irrigation infrastructure on fish migration Course

This free of charge FAO certification course is for irrigation practitioners and fisheries scientists. It provides training on how to better ensure irrigation systems can be designed for “win-win” outcomes.

The course details migratory fish ecology and how river development such as dams and weirs impact fish, biodiversity and food security. It also looks at practical solutions to modernize irrigation through policy and engineering tools that can mitigate the impacts of river development on fish populations. 2 hours 30 mins of learning.

The course has been designed as a pre-entry “taster” for our CSU Graduate Certificate for Fish Conservation and Management.

Access Course

In the media

2024 – Another Great Year for Southern Bell Frogs: A Success Story in Conservation

Flow MER

1 Feb 2025

Riverina communities successful in saving Southern bell frog from extinction

Australian Rural & Regional News

18 Dec 2024

Scientists Secure Funding for 5 More Years of Environmental Monitoring in the Bidgee

Back Country Bulletin

16 Dec 2024

Experience the spectacular sounds of a Murrumbidgee wetland erupting with life as water returns

1 Million Women

16 Jan 2022

Despite the drought rains and floods, bird numbers are unlikely to fully recover

Sydney Morning Herald

17 Dec 2021

Our partners

As part of our research in this field, we partner with government, industry, and community organisations to create innovative solutions with real-world impact.

Partner with us

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