At almost 1.7 million square kilometres, the Great Artesian Basin (GAB) covers over one fifth of the Australian continent and contains several connected geological basins. Each year, around 150,000ML of water from the basin is taken for livestock and domestic purposes, but 64% of this is lost through evaporation and seepage in open-air drains. Water loss from uncapped bores and uncontrolled water flows have resulted in reduced pressure and significant environmental challenges, however this pressure loss is being recovered thanks to capping and piping works so far and some springs are beginning to flow again.
The Queensland Government, with support from the Australian Government, has established a project which is being delivered by Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups. Desert Channels Queensland (DCQ) is leading this project with support from other NRM groups in Queensland. The project aims to provide information to landholders and licence holders alike of the requirements for uncontrolled “free flowing” bores to become watertight.
Webinars are being held to provide more information and provide a unique opportunity for landholders to learn more about the watertight requirements and options for accessing water.
Please contact the Desert Channels Queensland office on 07 46580600 to find out more information. 