The federal government has given a $7.5 million boost to a riverbank fencing program in the Northern Basin, in a bid to improve water quality, help protect native fish and keep farm animals safe.
The Fencing Northern Basin Riverbanks Program involves 1000 kilometres of riparian riverbank fencing, split evenly over New South Wales and Queensland.
The fence is designed to help control livestock access from damaging the basin's important ecosystems.
Water Minister Keith Pitt said the program will create jobs in Basin communities and improve the health of northern rivers.
"The government supports practical projects to protect environmental water and improve fish health and habitat in the northern Murray-Darling Basin," Mr Pitt said.
Agriculture Minister David Littleproud said pilot programs have already seen benefits.
"Good quality fencing is critical to protecting our valuable ecological sites in the Northern Basin and improving the habitat for native fish," Mr Littleproud said.
The program is part of a $15m investment from the federal government.
