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The coastal wetlands of the Northern Territory are a valuable resource for conservation, pastoralism, tourism and the commercial utilisation of wildlife. These values are under threat from alien plants, saltwater intrusion and introduced animals. Integration of such a range of land uses necessarily involves compromise by all interested parties. In specific cases formal agreements under relevant legislation provide a mechanism to satisfy pastoral and conservation objectives on the same site. The Lower Mary River Landcare Group provides an example of a particularly active attempt to integrate pastoralism and conservation on the coastal plains. Collective responsibility for the catchment and the provision of a forum for members to discuss their management and its compatibility with the goals of others in the catchment underpins the integration of land uses. There is ongoing intensification of land use on the coastal wetlands, and the potential for extensive modification, for example through ponded pastures. To maintain a balance between pastoralism and conservation there needs to be improved accessibility of information to land managers on the economic and environmental implications, on property and beyond, of management choices they make.