The NSW River Condition Index (RCI) is the primary long-term reporting tool for assessing riverine condition. It combines a range of indicators into a single condition score, including riparian vegetation, geomorphic condition, hydrologic stress, biodiversity, catchment disturbance, and water quality.

The RCI was developed in 2012 using the Framework for the Assessment of River and Wetland Health (FARWH) approach. The FARWH is an accepted method applied throughout Australia that uses existing data collection activities across jurisdictions and converts them into a standardised and nationally comparable representation of river health.

The River Condition Index: method document (aka River Condition Index Manual_Method Report.pdf) provides a detailed explanation of the index and how it has been applied across NSW. This reflects the latest version of the RCI product.

Note: If you would like to ask a question, make any suggestions, or tell us how you are using this dataset, please visit the NSW Water Hub which has an online forum you can join.