On Saturday July 17, OzFish Unlimited will be holding a citizens science project to test the water quality in the Lower Vasse River by checking out the bugs.
The Lower Vasse River flows into internationally protected wetlands that provide an important nursery for popular fish such as black bream, mullet and herring.
The river has been under threat for many years, experiencing harmful algal blooms, degraded banks that suffer from erosion and most recently horrific fish kills.
Geographe project officer Gabby Attenborough said that by monitoring water quality, they could work to improve habitat and enjoy better fishing in the future.
"One fun and easy way to test water quality is to undertake macroinvertebrate surveys, more commonly known as waterbug monitoring," she said.
"When counting and identifying the waterbugs we find in the river, we can use scientific guidelines to determine the health of this significant local waterway".
In what is a family friendly way to get involved in citizen science, Ms Attenborough believes that water bug sampling is fantastic fun and something for kids to do during the school holidays they would find enjoyable.
"Kids are always interested in playing in water and are often astounded by all the wiggling things you can find using a butterfly net," Ms Attenborough said.
"Kids and parents alike will find interesting and rewarding experience for the community to get involved in whilst contributing to scientific research."
The need for water quality improvement in the Lower Vasse River is critical for the survival of important fish species. OzFish and community partners are working towards a healthier and more productive ecosystem.
Resident Howard George is a long-term active community member and OzFish executive, who has always had a fascination with freshwater species.
Mr George said you could tell by the macroinvertebrates if a waterway was healthy system or not.
"At the river's edge, if you can see life, that's one indicator that the water quality is fairly good," he said.
"If you can see the small fish and macroinvertebrates, you know there might be some bigger fish are preyed on."
OzFish members, volunteers and anyone who wants to join will be meeting on July 17 at 9 am behind BCF - Boating, Camping, Fishing and Bunnings Busselton.
For anyone who is interested in fishing or conserving the environment, are invited to meet Mr George learn all about the wonderful and weird world of waterbugs.
If you would like to know more about the project or get involved become a member of OzFish online at ozfish.org.au or contact 1800 431 308.