Great Southern 30-year water blueprint Demand for water expected to rise by 75% to 2043 More wastewater recycling, increased stormwater harvesting and sustainable groundwater are three main planks of a strategy designed to meet the public, industrial and agricultural water needs of the Great Southern over the next 30 years. “By 2050, it is predicted that rainfall in coastal areas will be two to six per cent less and up to 15 per cent less in inland areas. “The Department of Water developed the strategy to ensure co-ordination and timely planning of sustainable water supplies that support long-term regional development. “The Water Corporation and Department of Water have secured the medium-term town water supplies for Albany and Mount Barker, and Royalties for Regions-funded work in the Albany hinterland is identifying potential groundwater for industry, agriculture and future expanded scheme options.” The Minister said the Great Southern region was well placed to achieve water security through innovation. “The region has the highest level of wastewater recycling in the State, and this will increase with $1.65 million in Royalties for Regions-funded wastewater harvesting and water reuse projects in the shires of Broomehill-Tambellup, Cranbrook, Kojonup and Plantagenet,” she said. “We will continue to foster partnerships with local government which have used State funds to help build community water supplies for sports ovals and parks, which in places like Woodanilling have reduced scheme water use by more than 50 per cent. “Innovation is supported by local planning policies in Jerramungup, Plantagenet and Denmark encouraging rainwater tanks, greywater recycling and water-efficient appliances for new residential developments.” Under the strategy, desalination of seawater also provides source options beyond 2030. Fact File For more information, visit water.wa.gov.au The strategy area covers about 39,000 square kilometres It extends along the WA coastline from Walpole to the eastern border of the Shire of Jerramungup, and north to the shires of Woodanilling and Kent Minister’s office – 6552 5500
Posted on: Thu, 18 Dec 2014 05:38:49 +0000
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