Richmond Region

The Richmond River catchment covers 7,022 km2, with a large coastal plain stretching from south of Evans Head north almost as far as Cape Byron. The Border Ranges National Park and the Richmond Range form the northern and western limits of the catchment, with the Richmond Range continuing to the south.

There is a strong tidal influence on the river which extends past Lismore on the Wilsons River - a major tributary - to beyond Tatham on the Richmond River. The Richmond River meets the ocean at Ballina. There is a minor port with a boat harbour for small vessels on North Creek Canal at the mouth of the Richmond River.

In the lower part of the catchment, most of the original vegetation has been removed. The upland ranges and the plateau north of Lismore remain mostly forested. In the very north of the catchment is the Border Ranges National Park and other smaller nature reserves and national parks which make up the Tweed Volcano Group of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area.

Sugar cane cultivation is the dominant agricultural industry in the coastal zone, especially between Ballina and Coraki, while cattle grazing is the major land use in inland areas. Around Kyogle and Casino are dairy, beef and timber industries and there has been an increase in tourism activities throughout the area, particularly in Byron Bay and Ballina. Agricultural activities, as well as urban developments have resulted in the clearing of native vegetation.

The Richmond's extensive aesthetic, recreational and productive values together with an agreeable climate, contribute to a steady increase in population and tourism-oriented activities. These factors place considerable pressure on regional resources, as do the area's primary industries. These pressures are common to many catchments throughout the coastal regions of NSW.

 

Area (km2)	7,022
Number of sub catchments	23
Tree Cover	42%
Major Land Uses	Grazing, Forest, and Cropping