New publications urging greater awareness about groundwater supplies

29/6/94

Greater awareness of the fragile nature of Perth's groundwater supplies has been urged by Water Resources Minister Paul Omodei.

Launching a new publication - 'Perth's groundwater and our lifestyle' - Mr Omodei warned that future urban development was expected to place even greater demand on the groundwater resource.

The booklet developed by the WA Water Authority and Education Department will provide an appreciation of Perth's vital groundwater resources and the need for its careful management.

The launch today was at an environmental studies wetland area at the Lakelands Senior High School in South Lake.

"In many cases, groundwater is out of sight but it should never be out of mind because of our high reliance on good quality water for our community lifestyle, gardens, parks and food production," Mr Omodei said.

"Currently, about one third of total water supplied to Perth by the Water Authority comes from groundwater.

"Demand on the public water supply is expected to increase a further 50 per cent over the next 15 years with predictions that groundwater sources will outstrip dam supplies.

"In addition to the public water supply operated by the authority, more than 80,000 privately owned bores around Perth draw about 50 per cent more than the Water Authority's total supply from dams and groundwater combined.

"Such private bores are encouraged providing they are within sustainable limits and the water is used efficiently.

"With these factors in mind, it is essential that children are educated about water issues to ensure balanced input to future community decisions on water-related issues."

It was not greatly appreciated that the water level in most wetlands in the Perth region were maintained only because of the groundwater table and careful management of the groundwater resource.

The booklet discusses a wide range of issues dealing with groundwater including the water cycle, the environment, pollution and protection.

It is available from:  Groundwater and Evironment Branch, Water Authority of Western Australia, 629 Newcastle Street, Leedervile 6007.  Phone: (09) 420 2420

Media contact:  Will Henwood 222 9595 or pager 480 5325 or Water Authority of WA Andrew McCrea 420 2420