World Wetlands Day 2025: Protecting Northern Territory’s Vital Ecosystems

Wetlands are the lifeblood of our landscapes. Cradles of biodiversity, they sustain thousands of species, filter our water, and protect our homes from floods by absorbing excess rainfall and acting as natural barriers. They are places of quiet beauty, where dragonflies dance over still waters, birds nest among reeds, and ancient mangroves stand sentinel along our shores. 

Over the last 50 years human activity has led to the loss of over 30% of the world’s wetlands. This is why it's critical that we look after the ones we have left. As we celebrate World Wetlands Day on 2 February, the theme “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future” reinforces how vital it is that we preserve these environments that sustain us. 

In the Northern Territory, wetlands are more than ecosystems; they are the foundation of our communities. They provide fresh water, shelter native wildlife, and connect us to the land. Whether you are a long-time Landcare volunteer or simply enjoy walking near your local waterway, your efforts matter. Every weed pulled, every tree planted, and every creek cleaned helps protect these fragile places.

Showcasing Landcare Champions

Across the Northern Territory, Landcare NT’s member groups are leading the charge—dedicated volunteers working together with Traditional Owners, environmental groups and other conservationists to restore and protect wetlands and other vital landscapes. From the mangroves of Rapid Creek to the bird-rich McMinns Lagoon, their work is a testament to what communities can achieve together.

Rapid Creek Landcare Group: Guardians of Urban Wetlands

Rapid Creek Landcare Group (RCLG) is dedicated to protecting Darwin’s only significant freshwater system. This urban waterway serves as a vital ecological corridor, supporting a diverse range of native flora and fauna.

Last December, RCLG held a community event celebrating 50 years of mangrove recovery, highlighting the crucial role of mangroves in coastal ecosystems. The event deepened community understanding of these vital habitats and inspired renewed commitment to their protection.

Looking ahead, RCLG is preparing for a major clean-up event on Clean Up Australia Day (2 March). Volunteers will remove litter and invasive species along the creek’s banks, improving habitat for native wildlife and ensuring the waterway remains a sanctuary within Darwin’s urban landscape. To learn more about this event follow them on Facebook.

Friends of Fogg Dam: Wetland Stewards in Action

Nestled within the Adelaide River wetlands, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve is a sanctuary teeming with life. Since 2006, Friends of Fogg Dam (FoFD) have been dedicated custodians, working to protect its ecological, cultural, and aesthetic values.

FoFD hosts monthly working bees, where volunteers tackle invasive weeds, clear walking tracks, and maintain interpretive signs. Their education and engagement efforts, including guided tours and partnerships with Parks & Wildlife, universities, and schools, ensure Fogg Dam remains accessible and informative.

Coinciding with World Wetlands Day, FoFD will host a special working bee on 2 February, followed by a BBQ lunch, fostering community spirit and a shared commitment to wetland conservation. Learn more about this event on their Facebook page.

Celebrating Broader Efforts Across NT

Across the Northern Territory, dedicated Landcare groups are working tirelessly to restore and protect the landscapes that define our unique region. Their efforts not only safeguard critical ecosystems but also foster a sense of community and shared purpose, ensuring these landscapes remain resilient for future generations.

• Guardians of the Northern Shores – Arnhem Coast Clean Up combats marine debris along NT’s pristine coastlines, removing significant amounts of waste to protect marine life.
• Stewards of a Wetland Haven – McMinns Lagoon Reserve Association restores degraded wetlands on Darwin’s outskirts, creating a sanctuary for birdlife and local recreation.
• Revitalising Urban Wilderness – Casuarina Coastal Reserve Landcare Group has been revegetating and advocating for this important habitat corridor since 1997.
• Restoring a Vital Waterway – Ludmilla Creek Landcare Group is actively restoring woodland, monsoon forest, and mangrove habitats through tree planting and weed control.
• Protecting the East Point Breezeway - Friends of East Point Landcare Group works to protect and enhance this important habitat corridor for many bird species and wallabies.
• Conserving Wetland Lagoons - Holtze Landcare Group have been conserving the Holtze site since 2004 - a biodiverse-rich area within the Howard Sand Sheet and an area of conservation significance with a high number of endemic species. 

These grassroots champions embody the power of community-driven conservation - where every small effort contributes to a much larger impact. By joining their work, you too can be part of this movement, ensuring NT’s wetlands remain protected and thriving for generations to come. 

Connecting Communities Through Conservation

Landcare NT connects and empowers local Landcare groups, amplifying their impact through advocacy, resources, and partnerships. By providing a united voice for community-led conservation, Landcare NT ensures that grassroots initiatives receive the recognition and support they need to thrive.

World Wetlands Day is a powerful reminder of Landcare NT’s mission—to protect and restore NT’s landscapes alongside passionate local communities. Whether through education, on-ground restoration, or advocating for stronger environmental policies, Landcare NT remains committed to safeguarding wetlands for future generations.

Get Involved: Protecting Wetlands Together

This World Wetlands Day in an opportunity to honor the deep connection between people and nature. Join Landcare NT in ensuring these ecosystems thrive for generations to come. This World Wetlands Day, commit to making a difference by:

• Visiting the Landcare NT website to explore local projects and volunteer with a member group.
• Subscribing to our newsletter for the latest conservation stories and opportunities.
• Following Landcare NT on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated and engage with our community.
• Downloading the official World Wetlands Day toolkit for action plans and educational resources.

Together, we can make a lasting impact and protect wetlands for our common future.