Landscape Assessment and Analysis of the Cooper Creek Catchment

This cultural landscape assessment and analysis project for the Cooper Creek Catchment was undertaken by Professor Gini Lee for the South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board as a component of a larger scientific study into the systems and dynamics that affect the ongoing viability of ecological refugia in the arid lands of central South Australia.

These ‘critical refugia’ are typically fresh or semi-saline waterholes located in large generally dry river systems, wetlands and ephemeral lakes. The more permanent waters become the only refuge for isolated or relict populations in times of severe drought and form a network of  refugia linked by the extensive floodplains that fringe central Australia’s inland rivers. Their healthy condition is essential to the continuing presence of animal and human populations and livelihoods.

This research project develops a methodology for documenting the landscapes of the Cooper Creek Catchment through fieldwork informed by; knowledge of the region’s historical exploration, settlement and development over time, on the ground site surveys and associated  community engagement. This component undertakes a detailed cultural landscape assessment into the physical features and human influences of the Cooper Creek catchment (SA section) using a landscape design based methodology and cross-disciplinary approach.

For full details please refer to the report of this study:

Lee, G. 2013. Landscape assessment and analysis of the Cooper Creek Catchment (SA Section). A report by the University of Melbourne to the South Australian Arid Lands Natural Resources Management Board. Port Augusta.