This monograph follows an investigation of the distribution and significance of stream turbidity in the state of Victoria, Australia; specifically exploring its significance in the regional, historical, cultural and geographic context.To make effective judgements of water availability managers of water resources need to know the significance of measured natural resource condition, not only in the local context but, importantly, in the regional context. Measured levels of turbidity in Victoria should be interpreted within the context of a unique history and geography. The spread of European colonisation and the introduction of massive land use change to the Victorian landscape have meant that current levels of turbidity reflect the effects of large scale intervention with its controlling systems.This work makes the argument that ecologically sustainable management means that resources must be considered in a more inclusive spatial and temporal context.