Unpacking dissolved inorganic nitrogen to ensure targeted management of Great Barrier Reef catchment water quality

Theme: Environmental Management

Description: 

The water quality in the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) catchment waterways is impacted by elevated nitrate and ammonium loads, known and reported as dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), primarily due to agricultural activities. Studies have shown that DIN concentrations are particularly high in areas with intensive agriculture, such as sugarcane and banana plantations, where fertiliser application often exceeds plant requirements. This excess DIN is transported into waterways, especially during wet season conditions, increasing loads in the GBR catchment that can affect the reef's health.

However, the nitrate-to-ammonium concentration ratios in these waterways are influenced by various factors, some of which are independent of each other, including land use practices, hydrological changes, and the instream nutrient process. Effective nutrient management strategies are crucial to mitigate these impacts. Understanding the nitrate-to-ammonium concentration ratios will give greater insight into improving the GBR lagoon's water quality

Additional Information: 

The Michael St John Warne (1962 – 2024) Memorial Scholarship is administered by the Reef Catchments Science Partnership in the School of the Environment. The purpose of the scholarship is to support UQ honours students. Up to three (3) scholarships will be awarded. Each scholarship is worth $5,000 (half paid in February 2026 and half paid on submission of thesis). A top up writing scholarship of $1,000 is available to publish one (1) journal paper from your thesis research after submission.
See https://environment.uq.edu.au/michael-st-john-warne-memorial-scholarship for more information or email rcsp.info@uq.edu.au

Contact: Assoc. Prof. Ryan Turner