Well designed irrigation storages and water courses on cotton farms can aid in the removal of sediment, nutrients and pesticides from irrigation water and enhance their habitat value for native plants and animals. This brochure outlines key principles for increasing the water use efficiency, water quality and habitat value of cotton farm watercourses and storages. The brochure aims to inform cotton growers and consultants of the environmental and economic benefits that can be achieved easily, cheaply and within their own time frame. It is not prescriptive, but more a collection of concepts and ideas that can be adapted for different circumstances and outcomes desired by landholders.