Waterbird theme EWKR project background and work program Centre for Freshwater Ecosystems 2019 The Waterbird theme aims to address limited knowledge about recruitment rates and drivers; that is the number of chicks that survive to become independent of their parents. The research is interested in the relative influence of flow variables, habitat variables and threats. Research outcomes of this theme will help managers identify, maintain or restore key habitats, as well as better understand the scales at which key habitats and environmental flows are required to support recruitment.