The framework can be used at scales ranging from whole catchments down to individual reaches of a waterway.
It can be used in situations where data is limited or plentiful, and of both a qualitative or quantitative nature.
It also recognises that some natural resource management regions already have processes for prioritising waterways for management, and is thus designed to incorporate and complement all previous and present waterway prioritisation and assessment initiatives undertaken by government agencies and regional bodies in Western Australia.
