NEW Gnangara groundwater allocations, which could affect Yanchep, Gingin and Gnangara water users, are likely to apply next year.
The Gnangara groundwater system covers about 2200sqkm and includes the groundwater resources of the Yanchep, Gnangara, Wanneroo, Swan, Mirrabooka, Gwelup and Perth groundwater areas as well as a portion of the Gingin groundwater area.
The Department of Water said the Gnangara groundwater system – Perth’s biggest, most accessible, lowest cost source of fresh water – had become out of balance through less rainfall and continued groundwater use.
“To develop the next Gnangara plan, we are working with water users to find ways to adjust and to bring our Gnangara groundwater system back into balance by 2030,’’ the department said.
The Gnangara groundwater system is a shared resource, which supplies almost half of Perth’s water supplies.
“This includes water for Perth’s integrated water supply scheme and water taken by farmers, local governments, schools, industry, and households from their own bores.
“It also supports nationally significant groundwater-dependent ecosystems, such as wetlands and Banksia woodlands.”
The groundwater-dependent ecosystems support biodiversity, help create Perth’s sense of place and make the city an attractive place to live.
The new allocation plan is going to be finalised next year.
The plan will confirm if and when any changes to existing water licences will be made.
If you want to receive updates on the next Gnangara groundwater allocation plan email allocation.planning@water.wa.gov.au
