Key Environmental Assets - KEA - of the Murray Darling Basin

## **Abstract** \n\nThis dataset and its metadata statement were supplied to the Bioregional Assessment Programme by a third party and are presented here as originally supplied. \n\n\n\nThe Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) considers an environmental asset to be the physical parts of the Murray-Darling River system which provide habitat for the plants, animals, fish, invertebrates and microbes and combine to make the ecosystems of the Basin. They comprise rivers, wetlands, floodplains, lakes and estuaries.\n\n\n\nThis dataset has been provided to the BA Programme for use within the programme only. Third parties should contact the Murray-Darling Basin Authority. www.mdba.gov.au.\n\n## **Purpose** \n\nThe Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) considers an environmental asset to be the physical parts of the Murray-Darling River system which provide habitat for the plants, animals, fish, invertebrates and microbes and combine to make the ecosystems of the Basin.\n\n## **Dataset History** \n\nA set of criteria were used to select water-dependent ecosystem considered to be key environmental assets. \n\nIf an asset fulfils the achievement indicators of at least one of the following criteria it is selected as a key environmental asset. \n\nSpecific achievement indicators were developed for each of the criteria to ensure a consistent (to the extent possible) and measurable assessment of water-dependent ecosystems:\n\n\n\n\\*\tCriterion 1: water-dependent ecosystem is formally recognised in, and/or is capable of supporting species listed in, international agreements; and/or\n\n\\*\tCriterion 2: water-dependent ecosystem is natural or near-natural, rare or unique; and/or \n\n\\*\tCriterion 3: water-dependent ecosystem provides vital habitat; and/or \n\n\\*\tCriterion 4: water-dependent ecosystem supports Commonwealth, State or Territory listed threatened species and/or ecological communities; and/or \n\n\\*\tCriterion 5: water-dependent ecosystem supports or is capable of supporting significant biodiversity.\n\n\n\nMore detailed information about the five criteria is available in Appendix A to the proposed "environmentally sustainable level of take" for surface water of the Murray-Darling Basin: Method and Outcomes.\n\n## **Dataset Citation** \n\nMurray-Darling Basin Authority (2010) Key Environmental Assets - KEA - of the Murray Darling Basin. Bioregional Assessment Source Dataset. Viewed 12 December 2018, http://data.bioregionalassessments.gov.au/dataset/9948195e-3d3b-49dc-96d2-ea7765297308.