Regional communities across Western Australia are getting better prepared for climate change thanks to $13 million assigned to improving water security.
Since gaining the funds through State Government and National Water Grid initiatives, our rural water planning team has put it to good use on projects such as drilling new bores, improving irrigation, desilting dams and installing rainwater capture systems in vulnerable areas.
Among the latest projects is a 1930s-built community water tank in the Shire of Westonia, newly repaired and fitted with floating tiles to reduce evaporation.
The team has been helping rural communities to better prepare for periods of low rainfall by coordinating the Community Water Supplies Partnership (CWSP) and Agricultural Area Dams (AA Dams) programs for nearly 30 years.
The recent funding will go towards developing non-potable water supplies over the next two years to increase water security and reduce the use of scheme water.
It will also help to avoid water deficiency declarations, enhance emergency response to fire and livestock watering and build climate change resilience.
The team are busy with 75 projects across 31 local government authorities as part of the AA Dams program and 27 projects alongside 18 local authorities and the Baiyungu Aboriginal Corporation announced by Minister for Water Don Punch through the CWSP program.
In addition to supporting local authorities and rural communities, the projects assist the State Government by reducing the need for water carting in areas where water declarations are made.
The passionate team is well-respected among local authorities and other agencies working with regional communities to build resilience through practical, innovative and timely solutions to water scarcity in agricultural areas.
Find out more about community water supplies programs and practical solutions to water scarcity in agricultural areas on our Rural water planning page.
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