The Shire of Murray is looking for enthusiastic locals to help them in their bid to manage the region's river and estuary environments.
According to Shire president David Bolt, a coastal hazard risk management and adaptation plan is needed to mitigate the impacts of erosion and inundation on the Peel Harvey Estuary and tidally influenced portions of the Murray and Serpentine rivers.
"Through a collaborative, objective and comprehensive study, we will gain a deeper understanding of our coastal areas which will be used to develop a long-term strategy to support future coastal management and planning decisions," Mr Bolt said.
"Our coastal areas are an intrinsic part of life in Murray, as home to tens of thousands of water birds and other important flora and fauna and housing a range of recreation, conservation, residential and commercial assets.
"The increasing extent and frequency of coastal hazards will pose even greater risks into the future and we need to act to protect our environment, character, amenity and way of life."
Expressions of interest are currently being sought to form a community reference group.
Residents, as well as community groups and local businesses, are encouraged to apply by visiting the Shire's consultation portal at yoursay.murray.wa.gov.au/murray-chrmap.
Applications close Friday, October 9.
The citizen science component of the project is also currently seeking community member input.
Locals are encouraged to visit the Shire's YourSay portal and provide on-the-ground insights on the study area map.
"We want to know which areas community members use - where do they walk, take their dogs to exercise, picnic with the family, fish and swim as well as what places they value," Mr Bolt said.
"Establishing these values holistically will ensure correct articulation in the plan and achieve the most effective outcome for decision making.
"We also want to know if community members have noticed a rise in flooding and erosion and actual or potential hazards."
Engagement efforts will transpire over October and November 2020 and March 2021, with the delivery of a draft plan anticipated for December 2021.