Most people visit waterways in summer when water temperatures are suitable for swimming and boating, and when fishing is more pleasant. At this time, facilities are used to their maximum. Some facilities such as boat ramps become extremely crowded. In winter, the number of people using the waterway is low and many facilities such as carparks and boat ramps are virtually empty.

What are the waterways used for?

Waterways have traditionally been a focus for human activity. Waterways were used for transport, fishing and recreation. Water transport was a major form of transport before cars. Many communities were built around ports and waterways for convienent transport. Today waterways are still important for an increasing range of commercial and recreational activities.

Waterways and foreshores are used for many recreational activities including crabbing, prawning, swimming, cycling, paddling, waterskiing, scenic driving, powerboating, fishing, barbecuing, picnicking, windsurfing, sunbathing and birdwatching. People also like to relax, look at the view and socialise with their family and friends around waterways.

Different parts of the waterways are used for different activities. This happens partly because of the natural conditions on the waterway, such as the depth of the water and the wind direction. Some facilities are developed where they will have the least impact on the river system and its plants and animals. Other facilities and activities are restricted to particular areas for safety reasons.

Conflicts in human uses of waterways

The population is increasing and pressure on waterways is also increasing. This puts stress on the environment, and can also result in human uses which conflict one with another. Simple examples are waterskiing and swimming, powerboats and canoes, diving and fishing, commercial fishing and recreational fishing, noisy machines versus tranquil picnicking. The natural workings of the waterway and the diversity of plants and animals can be threatened by human activity.