How far is pollution being carried in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area?
Most pollutants sources from the land are discharged into the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area during floods. Flood plumes usually stay relatively close inshore (within 10-15 kms of the coast), but under still conditions or when offshore winds are blowing, flood plumes can reach as far as the outer reef and stay for several days. For further information regarding flood plumes – Have a look at Research Publication No 68 – Flood Plumes in the Great Barrier Reef: Spatial and Temporal Patterns in Composition and Distribution.
