A Draft Gingin surface water allocation plan was released today by the Department of Water for a three month public comment period.
The plan applies to the Gingin surface water management area and defines how much water is available and how water abstraction will be managed, particularly during summer when river flows are low and water demand is high.
"For many decades surface water has been an important water source for horticulture and agriculture in the Gingin plan area," Director General Kim Taylor said in launching the plan.
"In the last thirty years, there has been less rainfall. Flows in the brooks, including summer flows recharged by groundwater, have declined.
"The department has responded to water users' concerns about the impact of upstream abstraction on downstream water users and the environment.
"Our goal is to optimise water availability within a sustainable limit. Surface water abstraction in the plan area has reached, and in some areas has exceeded sustainable limits."
How much surface water is available?
Mr Taylor said that any increase in surface water abstraction during the low (summer) flow will further impact on flows and the riverine environment.
"High (winter) flow is important for recharging groundwater.
"Therefore there are no 'new' surface water allocations available. All resources are either fully allocated or over-allocated."
Where can I get a copy of the plan?
A copy of the plan and the allocation limits report can be found on allocation planning's website www.water.wa.gov.au/allocationplanning
Your input on our Gingin surface water allocation plan is important as it will help us improve the plan. Once you have read this document, if you would like to comment on the plan please send your comments to allocation.planning@water.wa.gov.au by 5pm Tuesday 22 December 2009.
Media contact: Peter Collins (08)6364 6848 / 0434 603 441