Protecting Lhere Mparntwe (Todd River): Our Rivers, Our Future

Lhere Mparntwe (Todd River) is a defining feature of Alice Springs, shaping the landscape and holding deep cultural significance for the Arrernte people, the Traditional Custodians of Mparntwe. Though it is dry for much of the year, the river plays a vital role in supporting native vegetation, wildlife corridors, and seasonal water flows. However, human activity, invasive species, and pollution continue to threaten its long-term health.

On this International Day of Action for Rivers, themed "Our Rivers, Our Future," we recognize the efforts of Landcare NT groups, Traditional Custodians, and local volunteers who are working to protect and restore Lhere Mparntwe for future generations.

Lhere Mparntwe: A River Worth Protecting

Lhere Mparntwe is more than just a river—it is an ecological and cultural connection point for Alice Springs. For the Arrernte people, it is woven into Dreaming stories and land management practices, reinforcing cultural identity and guiding sustainable relationships with Country.

Ecologically, the riverbed and surrounding riparian zone support native plant species and provide habitat for wildlife, even during dry periods. When flowing, the river sustains groundwater recharge, enhances biodiversity, and offers a focal point for recreation, community activities, and conservation efforts.

Despite its importance, urban expansion, pollution, and invasive species continue to degrade Lhere Mparntwe’s natural state. Local conservation groups, including Alice Springs Landcare Group, are working to restore native habitat, reduce waste, and advocate for stronger protections to ensure the river’s longevity.

How Local Groups Are Caring for Lhere Mparntwe

The Alice Springs Landcare Group is actively involved in conservation efforts for Lhere Mparntwe and surrounding landscapes. Their work focuses on:

• Weed Control & Habitat Restoration – Removing invasive species like buffel grass, which outcompetes native vegetation and increases fire risks.
• Tackling Illegal Dumping – Organizing clean-up events and working with authorities to reduce waste pollution along the river.
• Community Engagement – Hosting working bees, educational workshops, and tree-planting events to encourage local participation in conservation.

ASLG works across several areas of ecological significance, including Lhere Mparntwe, Maynard Park, Spencer Valley, and Ilparpa Claypans, reinforcing the importance of community-led stewardship.

Broader Initiatives Supporting Lhere Mparntwe

Lhere Mparntwe Management Strategy 2019: A Framework for Conservation

Recognizing the ecological, cultural, and social importance of Lhere Mparntwe, the Northern Territory Government and local stakeholders developed the Lhere Mparntwe Management Strategy in 2019. This strategy aims to:

• Protect and restore the river’s natural values.
• Promote responsible recreational use while minimizing environmental impacts.
• Encourage collaboration between government agencies, Traditional Owners, businesses, and the community in managing the river sustainably.

By integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) with modern conservation methods, the strategy seeks to ensure long-term protection of the river and its ecosystems.

Operation: Don’t Be a Dumper – Addressing Illegal Dumping

A significant threat to Lhere Mparntwe is illegal dumping. Waste accumulation in and around the river not only degrades the landscape but also pollutes groundwater and harms native wildlife.

In response, the Northern Territory Government launched Operation: Don’t Be A Dumper (DBAD) in late 2024. This initiative focuses on:

• Deploying cameras and signage in high-risk areas to deter illegal dumping.
• Improving enforcement measures to hold offenders accountable.
• Partnering with community organizations to raise awareness and encourage responsible waste disposal.

Community-led clean-up initiatives, like those organized by ASLG, play a critical role in complementing these efforts and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

A Local Effort in a Global Movement

The 2025 International Day of Action for Rivers theme, "Our Rivers, Our Future," reminds us that the health of our rivers is directly linked to the health of our communities and ecosystems. The efforts of Landcare NT groups, local volunteers, and environmental advocates in Alice Springs demonstrate the power of grassroots action in safeguarding waterways.

By protecting Lhere Mparntwe, we are:

• Preserving biodiversity – Ensuring native plants and animals thrive in a healthy ecosystem.
• Maintaining cultural connections – Respecting and upholding the deep spiritual ties between the Arrernte people and their lands.
• Fostering climate resilience – Strengthening the landscape’s ability to withstand environmental pressures like fire and drought.

Get Involved in River Conservation

• Help Protect Lhere Mparntwe (Todd River) – Get involved with Alice Springs Landcare Group to participate in clean-up events, habitat restoration, and invasive species management.
• Support River Conservation – Join a local Landcare group working to restore rivers across the NT. Find a group near you: Landcare NT Member Groups.
• Stay Updated on NT River Conservation – Follow Landcare NT for updates on local river restoration efforts and upcoming events.

Our Rivers, Our Future Starts Now

Lhere Mparntwe is a lifeline for Alice Springs, and its future depends on collective action. On this International Day of Action for Rivers, let’s celebrate the work being done to protect this vital waterway and commit to ensuring it remains healthy, clean, and thriving for generations to come.

Every effort—big or small—contributes to the future of our rivers.