Mapping potential surface water/groundwater connectivity across Australia
Project details
| Objective: |
To carry out catchment scale analysis to determine the potential connectivity of groundwater resources across Australia. |
| Funding: |
up to $500 000 plus applicable GST from the Australian Government. An additional $2 million is expected to be provided through in-kind support from the Australian Government and states and territories through the supply of data and other material. |
| Jurisdiction: |
National |
| Commenced: |
April 2007 |
| Completed: |
April 2008 |
About the project
The Australian Government is contributing funds to carry out catchment scale analysis to determine the potential connectivity of groundwater resources across Australia. The desktop study will use a connectivity index model to determine the level of connectivity along river reaches within surface water catchments.
Project benefits
The Raising National Water Standards investment will provide water managers with a visual indication of the areas of potentially high connectivity between groundwater and surface water systems. This will enable water managers to better allocate resources and management skills to these areas. It will allow for the improved application of monitoring resources for management decisions.
This project will also link with the Australian Water Resources 2005 to identify areas that may require more detailed monitoring.
Progress
Project has now been completed. The Minister for Climate Change and Water, the Hon. Penny Wong has approved the National Assessment of Surface Water/ Groundwater Connectivity project under the Groundwater Action Plan which will use the methodologies developed under this project.