The land around the Mary River has been cleared many times leading to low quality water and a build up of silt. Invasive plants along the river bank have also contributed to the lack of breeding success because they make it difficult for Mary River Turtles to go ashore and lay their eggs.
The terrain surrounding the Mary River has been repeatedly cleared, resulting in poor water quality and a buildup of sediment. Invasive vegetation along the riverbank also hinders the breeding success of Mary River Turtles by obstructing their ability to reach land and lay eggs.