Science helps us track how native fish, waterbirds, and plants respond to water for the environment. It also helps us track water quality, flow and river levels in the Warrego and Barwon–Darling Valleys.
Lessons learnt
Monitoring, evaluation and research shows us what's working and what's not. This knowledge helps us manage water for the environment in real-time and in the future.
To build this knowledge, we work with scientists and other providers to collect data about:
- water volumes delivered
- system hydrology
- river levels and areas that receive water
- environmental outcomes.
Native fish
Native fish rely heavily on the Warrego–Darling system for refuge during dry times, feeding and spawning. It also helps them move throughout the system.
Monitoring over the years has found over 20 different species in the Warrego–Darling area. This includes species that are listed as vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered.
Historically, the fish community in the Warrego River has been resilient. They have survived during highly variable flows conditions and have rebuild populations in response to rainfall and flow events. However, recent monitoring has found the fish community is struggling.
Native animals
The delivery of water to the western floodplain supports:
- frogs
- invertebrates
- waterbirds.
Long dry periods in the Barwon–Darling make it hard for freshwater mussels to survive. To help them recover and survive, it's vital to maintain a minimum level of water in the system.
Connectivity and flows
Water for the environment can help connect the Barwon–Darling with its tributaries. This is important for helping native fish to move around. This water can also:
- improve water quality
- help nutrients cycle around
- provide access to habitat for native waterbirds, fish and frogs.
The water needed to replenish waterholes and reconnect rivers is much greater than for flowing or connecting rivers.
CEWH science
We support several projects through our CEWH science programs.
In the Warrego and Barwon-Darling Valleys, we work on these projects with:
- state departments
- the Murray-Darling Basin Authority
- scientists
- First Nations people
- local community.
Flow-MER Program publications
On-ground activities for the Flow-MER Program are underway. Read the Darling and Warrego River Systems science publications containing detailed information on the Darling and Warrego River Systems Area monitoring, evaluation and research activities planned for 2024-2029, including updates and reports.
You can also visit the Flow-MER website to learn more about monitoring in the Warrego–Darling areas.