The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) has completed a survey of the Peel-Harvey Estuary seagrass population after drones were used for aerial mapping.
In a statement, DWER said seagrass surveys were normally carried out using an underwater camera mounted on a vessel to observe which seagrass species were present, their density and any potential signs of stress.
“Drone imagery enabled the mapping of estuary areas that are too shallow to access by boat,” the Department said.
“The distribution of different species of seagrass, and what condition they are in, provides important information about the overall health of an estuary and can identify local areas of concern.”
It said the DWER seagrass team had surveyed more than 450 locations within the estuary over the past month, finding four species of seagrasses, including one previously unrecorded in the Peel-Harvey Estuary.
“The survey work built on the capability of the Department’s trained drone pilots, using new software to allow for repeat surveys of the same flight paths,” the Department said.
“Drone and satellite technologies are increasingly utilised in Australia and around the world to remotely gather information — complementing more traditional field methods and informing management actions.”
Minister for Water, Dave Kelly said the Peel-Harvey Estuary’s proximity to Perth, abundant natural resources and recreational opportunities, made it highly valued by the community.
“Completion of this important work will help us effectively manage the health of the largest and most complex estuarine system in the South-West,” Mr Kelly said.
“This is a great example of how we are using the latest technology to build on our existing scientific methods, and inform future management actions to protect this important waterway.”
