Scientists are warning there must be a careful and thorough approach to development near Australia's northern rivers to avoid another Murray-Darling crisis.

Environmental scientists agree the abundance of natural resources like water in northern Australia offers huge potential for further development and agricultural opportunities.

The director of the Tropical Rivers and Coastal Knowledge research hub, Michael Douglas, says the assets of the north will attract further migration but a careful approach on development is critical.

"We all want more development so we can meet the needs of the people in the region but we don't want to push the system so far that we go down to another Murray-Darling system," he said.

Mr Douglas is conducting research on the Daly River system to ensure the survival of wildlife and fish species like the barramundi.

He says his project will play a pivotal role in future environmental government policy in the Northern Territory.