There is a widely held belief that, over the last few decades, many rivers
and wetlands have been significantly degraded. Clearly, groundwater abstrac
tion has had a detrimental effect. However, other pressures such as channel
isation, sedimentation, reduced rainfall, poor site management or land-use
change can be contributing factors. Various policy responses are reviewed a
nd some examples are given. It is concluded that, whilst groundwater abstra
ction does cause river and wetland degradation, the degree of degradation o
ften depends upon the individual perspective; therefore a rigorous approach
is required in quantifying such degradation and its actual causes, beginni
ng with the establishment of clear objectives and the collection of appropr
iate data.