Defining non-tidal riparian boundaries

Abstract

The boundary between land and water is one of the most difficult of all boundaries to re-define. The changing nature of watercourse systems poses major problems and surveyors currently have limited guidelines to assist in the process of selecting an appropriate natural feature to use for a boundary alignment. This project has been undertaken to address uncertainty in Queensland legislation with regard to non-tidal riparian boundaries. The current approach regarding the boundary between land and non-tidal water is defined by the term - bed and banks. The methods adopted by surveyors in determining a natural feature are drawn upon using their experience alone rather than a combination of experience and theoretical knowledge in solving this problem Addressing short falls in bed and bank descriptions has allowed a greater understanding of these types of boundaries. The formulation of principals and standards of the definition process has enabled thorough guidelines to be developed. The project addresses key topics of riparian boundary reinstatement by: • Identification of the needs of society for riparian boundaries and the key principles essential to meeting those needs • Develop a set of standards to address these key principals, and • Develop a guideline to aid surveyors in an appropriate definition process. These developments have enabled a transparent approach to be achieved with the relationship between the surveyor and regulation. The current system of reporting outlined in the Cadastral Survey Requirements, compromises the ability of the system to cater for society’s needs. A guideline for the surveyor to refer to when determining an appropriate natural feature to locate would be an invaluable resource. This reference tool would potentially address a deficiency in the current system thereby satisfying the greater community.