Home Department of Water and Environmental Regulation Values of our waterways Values of our waterways Western Australian waterways have many ecological, cultural, social and economic values. Last updated: 14 August 2023 Find out more about each of the topics below. Ecological, cultural, social and economic values of our waterways Our waterways have intrinsic ecological value and important social and economic benefits. Western Australia’s high value waterways Our high value waterways are protected for their biodiversity, ecosystem values and natural beauty. Aquatic habitat Aquatic habitats have a major influence on the health of waterways. Aquatic and riparian vegetation Aquatic and riparian vegetation is important to keeping waterways healthy. Aquatic macroinvertebrates Macroinvertebrates play a critical role in aquatic ecosystems. Fish and crayfish Fish and crayfish are good indicators for assessing waterway health. Seagrass Seagrasses found in Western Australia are the most diverse of any region in the world. Macroalgae Macroalgae are important in aquatic ecosystems as a food source and habitat to invertebrates, fish and birds. Sidebar Related page Waterways Provided by Department of Water and Environmental Regulation Share Facebook share(Opens in a new tab/window) Twitter(Opens in a new tab/window) LinkedIn(Opens in a new tab/window) Copy URL