Join ecologists to track water health in the Clare Valley and Barossa
The Waterbug Bioblitz is back for another year, bringing together community members and scientists to monitor and explore the health of local waterways.
This citizen science initiative, led by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, invites volunteers of all ages to work alongside ecologists and Board staff to collect, test, and analyse water samples in Clare and Barossa Valley waterways. Two Waterbug Bioblitz events are scheduled in the Northern and Yorke region, including in Clare on Friday, 26 September and in the Barossa on Friday, 31 October 2025. Register now.
Northern and Yorke Landscape Board’s Regional Water Officer Brooke Kerin said that Waterbug Bioblitz is integral to understanding our local waterways.
“The Waterbug Bioblitz is all about getting people together to learn, explore, and make a real difference for our local waterways. It’s a chance for anyone – no matter your experience – to test water quality, find tiny water creatures, and help track the health of our environment.”
“It’s fun, hands-on, and a great way to connect with nature while contributing to something bigger. Whether you're a local, or just curious, there's a place for you in the Bioblitz."
Participants receive onsite training, conduct water quality testing, and help identify macroinvertebrates - tiny creatures that serve as key indicators of freshwater health.
The Waterbug Bioblitz is a series of one-day events designed to create a snapshot of waterway health across the Northern and Yorke region, the Hills and Fleurieu region and the Murraylands and Riverland region. Other events are being held in Keyneton, Wistow and Strathalbyn.
All data collected feeds into the National Waterbug Database via the SA Flora and Fauna Data Dashboard. This valuable information helps track long-term environmental trends, informs Water Allocation Plans and helps educate communities.
By contributing this data, the project plays a vital role in strengthening our understanding of freshwater ecosystems at both a regional and national level.
To find out more, visit the Landscape Board websites or explore other citizen science opportunities.
This project is funded through the State Government’s Citizen Science Grant and supported by the Northern and Yorke Landscape Board, Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu, the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, First Nations - Ngadjuri, Peramangk and Ngarrindjeri, the Department for Environment and Water, the Second Nature Conservancy, Barossa Australia and Clare Valley Wine & Grape Association.
