B
C
A
C
A
C
The Vasse-Wonnerup Wetlands support high ecological values and are recognised internationally for their importance to waterbirds. However, the system also experiences periods of poor water quality, particularly during the summer months. The wetlands are hydrologically unique, with surge barriers at the mouths of both estuaries. These structures have contributed to the development of a distinct and highly valuable ecosystem, but also play a role in ongoing water quality challenges.
An annual monitoring program assesses key ecological components of the wetlands and supports their ongoing management. The estuary year for monitoring and reporting activities runs from June to May in any given year. The 2024 grades reflect the results from monitoring undertaken between June 2024 and May 2025. These report cards present the results using an approach specifically developed for the Vasse-Wonnerup Wetlands. The grading systems are tailored to this unique environment and are not intended for application in other waterways. They are designed to effectively track ecological condition and changes over time.
| Year | Aquatic Plants | Macroinvertebrates | Black Bream
| Waterbirds | Fish kills | Water Quality | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | B | C | A | C | A | C | |
| 2023 | B | C | D | D | A | C | |
 | 2022 | B | B | A | C | A | C |
 | 2021 | B | B | D | C | E | D |
 | 2020 | C | B | D | B | A | C |
| 2019 | B | C | Not Sampled | A | E | C |
| 2018 | B | B | D | A | A | C |
| 2017 | C | B | C | D | A | B |
A
Excellent
B
Very Good
C
Fair
D
Poor
E
Very Poor
The Vasse Wonnerup wetlands Report Card is based on monthly water quality and waterbird monitoring undertaken by the Departments of Water and Environment Regulation and Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, annual aquatic vegetation monitoring undertaken by Edith Cowan University, and macroinvertebrate and Black Bream monitoring undertaken by Murdoch University.
