Summary
This project aimed to develop science-based groundwater management boundaries for the Lower Limestone Coast of South Australia by incorporating current knowledge of aquifer stratigraphy, geological structure, fault systems, aquifer thickness and groundwater conditions. The study reviewed existing groundwater management arrangements and assessed whether the 61 management zones used under the Water Allocation Plan remain appropriate for sustainable groundwater management. Researchers analysed hydrogeological data from 479 groundwater wells, reviewed aquifer stratigraphy and structural controls, and identified alternative management boundaries that better reflect groundwater systems rather than historical administrative boundaries. The study found that the existing 61 zones could potentially be reduced to six to ten larger management zones based on aquifer characteristics, improving management efficiency and potentially enabling more flexible water trading. It also identified shortcomings in current groundwater trigger mechanisms and proposed alternative approaches based on aquifer thickness and resource condition. The project concluded that groundwater management should be guided by contemporary hydrogeological science to improve the long-term sustainability, resilience and productivity of the region’s groundwater-dependent industries and ecosystems.
Acknowledgement of funding
This report was commissioned by the Murray Region Forestry Hub with funding from the Australian Government, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Disclaimer
Reports prepared for Regional Forestry Hubs, and any recommendations contained in the reports, are provided as received by the Hub and are not endorsed positions of the Hub. They do not constitute Australian Government policy.
