There have been dramatic reductions in the concentrations of chlorophyll a since the opening of the Dawesville Channel and no recorded blooms of Nodularia in the estuary. The concentrations of dissolved oxygen have increased, as have salinity levels. This has resulted in a reduction of stratification and a decrease in the release of inorganic nutrients from the sediments.

However, the flushing effects of the Dawesville Channel, especially during winter, do not appear to extend into the areas adjacent to river inflows. This coupled with continued high (and possibly increasing) nutrient inputs from the catchment mean that this system is still partially eutrophic. It is possible that a phytoplankton species adapted to the increased salinity regime could replace the nuisance blooms of Nodularia. Also, it must be remembered that a year of high spring rainfall could create conditions conducive for the germination of Nodularia akinetes.

The Dawesville Channel was not meant to solve the problems of the Peel Harvey Estuary, but rather work as a component of a three part strategy. Without the reduction of nutrients entering the system, it is unlikely that the eutrophic conditions within the system will be completely remedied.