Looking into the future, the emphasis is on achieving both environmental sustainability as well as robust agricultural activity. In Gwydir Shire there are significant environmental assets that require special attention and care. The Council will partner with the Border Rivers-Gwydir Catchment Management Authority to adopt a catchment wide approach to the integrated issues of soil, water and habitat conservation and establishment in the Shire. The Border Rivers – Gwydir Catchment Management Authority is working towards a potential outcome to operate as an active trader in the ‘environment’ in the future. Such an economic mechanism will put a value on the environment and enable landowners to be compensated for land areas that become dedicated to conservation.