NQ Dry Tropics
The NQ Dry Tropics (formerly Burdekin Dry Tropics NRM) operates as a community based, not-for-profit company established in 2002 to deliver on-ground Natural Resource Management activities and enhance the community's involvement in those issues throughout the Dry Tropics Region in northern Queensland Australia.
The National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality (NAPSWQ) and the Natural Heritage Trust Extension (NHT2) are natural resource management programs established by the Australian Government, in partnership with State Governments, to address the declining condition of natural resources in Australia. While the long term objectives of these programs are to halt and reverse the decline in the condition of the natural resource base, it is also recognised that the long term success of NRM activities depends on the successful involvement of all sectors of the community.
The election of the Rudd Government has seen a move to a Caring for our Country program. It is a commitment of $2.25 billion in funding over the first five years commencing 1 July 2008.
The NQ Dry Tropics region is located in north eastern Queensland, covering an area of approximately 133,432 km² and is primarily defined by the catchment area of the Burdekin River plus the associated coastal and marine areas. The region has a population of approximately 190 000 which predominantly urban with up to three quarters based within the major population centres including Townsville, Ayr, Bowen and Charters Towers. Away from the major centres the region is sparsely populated.
Major Watercourses
Major water courses in this catchment include:
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The economy of the NQ Dry Tropics region is heavily reliant upon natural resources based industries, particularly agriculture. Agriculture is by far the most important employer in the rural areas of the region. Other major industries include mining and tourism.