Albany borefields upgrade to boost water supply

• $24million project to upgrade Albany's water source

• Project will help secure region's water supply

Dozens of bores will be upgraded or replaced and six new bores installed as part of a $24million water source project in Albany.

Water Minister Bill Marmion said the project would help secure the town's mid-term water supply and allow greater flexibility to meet the seasonal water demands of Albany's growing population.

"A series of new bores will be installed to increase the spread of withdrawal points and minimise the impact on the groundwater environment," Mr Marmion said.

"The new bores will be fitted with equipment to measure water levels, assess the level of salinity and determine water quality.

"A magnetic flow meter will also measure the amount of water being drawn from each production bore."

The Minister said due to clogging and deterioration, up to 25 existing bores could be replaced as part of the project. 

"Replacement of the existing bores will start early this year and continue for about four years," he said.

The works are being undertaken by the Water Corporation.

      Fact File

• The Albany borefield network stretches from Humphrey Road area through Torndirrup National Park and the Rifle Range to the end of the Verve Energy Windfarm within the Grasmere Reserve

• Towns currently supplied by the Lower Great Southern Towns Water Supply Scheme include Albany, Narrikup, Mount Barker and Kendenup

Minister's office - 9220 5000