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Water Bug Survey

The Water Bug Survey Program supports assessment of aquatic ecosystem health across the Upper Murrumbidgee catchment.
Trained volunteers and Waterwatch staff conduct surveys of aquatic macroinvertebrates (water bugs) to complement water quality monitoring and inform catchment management and ACT Government decision‑making.
What Is Monitored
Water bug surveys focus on aquatic macroinvertebrates, including insects, crustaceans, molluscs, arachnids and worms that live all or part of their life cycle in waterways.
Water bugs are used as biological indicators because:
  • Different species vary in their tolerance to pollution and habitat change
  • Community composition reflects long‑term waterway condition, not just momentary water quality
Survey results provide insight into ecosystem health, habitat quality and disturbance. Every waterbug survey provides a picture of the last 6 months in the waterway.
How the Program Works
The Water Bug Program is delivered through supported, seasonal monitoring.
Surveys are conducted twice per year (typically Autumn and Spring)
Monitoring takes place at selected sites across the catchment
Surveys follow the SIGNAL 2 methodology
Volunteers receive guidance from Waterwatch staff during surveys
Data is uploaded to the Waterwatch database for review and use
No prior experience is required. Water bug surveys are designed to be accessible, hands‑on and informative, with training provided during survey events. We also run events prior to the surveys for beginners so you can learn about the bugs and understand what the surveys entail.
Why It Matters
Water bug monitoring supports:
  • Assessment of aquatic ecosystem condition
  • Detection of long‑term environmental change
  • Improved understanding of how water quality, flow and habitat affect waterways
  • Validation and strengthening of water quality results
  • Evidence‑based planning, restoration and management decisions
By combining biological monitoring with physical and chemical measures, the program delivers a more complete picture of catchment health.
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.
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