Watershed Management Implementation plan and Aquatic Biodiversity at UniSC

The University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) is committed to protecting the health of our local waterways and coastal ecosystems through a location-specific watershed management strategy as part of the larger UniSC Campus Masterplan. Recognising the ecological diversity of aquatic species across our campuses and surrounding catchments, UniSC integrates research and conservation into its water stewardship practices.

Our implementation approach includes:

• Biodiversity-informed planning: UniSC’s environmental scientists and marine ecologists conduct research into the distribution and health of aquatic species across regional watersheds. This data informs targeted water management implementation strategies that support species resilience and ecosystem function.
• Catchment-sensitive development: Campus infrastructure and landscaping projects are designed to minimise runoff and sedimentation, with erosion control measures tailored to local soil types and aquatic habitats.
• Collaborative monitoring programs: UniSC partners with local councils, conservation organisations, and Traditional Custodians to monitor water quality and aquatic biodiversity, ensuring that management practices reflect the unique ecological characteristics of each location.
• Education and engagement: Through coursework, community outreach, and student-led initiatives, UniSC promotes awareness of watershed health and the importance of protecting aquatic species diversity.
• Sustainable water use: Rainwater harvesting, stormwater management systems, and water-efficient landscaping help reduce pressure on natural water sources while maintaining healthy aquatic environments.

By aligning watershed management with the specific ecological needs of our region, UniSC continues to lead in sustainable water practices that protect biodiversity and promote long-term environmental resilience.

More information

• UniSC Campus Masterplan