Although cotton farming is a major industry in the Namoi Valley, the status of on farm native vegetation and bird life is poorly understood. This project was implemented to improve that understanding.On farm (mostly cotton farms) remnant native vegetation was inspected and sites representative of the main vegetation types were established. A rapid biodiversity assessment method was used to determine and record the vegetative characteristics. Bird surveys were conducted each summer, autumn, winter and spring season over two years and the bird species and individual bird numbers were recorded.Shannon's Diversity Index H was calculated for the bird population of each site and then compared with the recorded vegetative characteristics, The results showed a clear, positive correlation of the bush bird species richness and abundance with vegetation complexity and at sites where vegetation has become simplified as a consequence of 150 years of livestock and farming activities, bird diversity is lower.The results provide guidance for actions most likely to be productive to protect and enhance both vegetative and bird diversity into the future. Another result is the finding that habitat complexity within a wetland and its water body is more attractive to water bird life than the complexity of habitat around a wetland.In the course of this project, relatively simple methods of observation and recording of vegetation status and bird survey were developed which are within the capacity of people not necessarily scientifically trained or with only limited available time yet which will deliver scientifically valid assessment over time. These findings and developments will assist practical management of farm biodiversity into the future.