Water Shortage Declared in Spring Hill Water Supply Protection Area
A Water Shortage has been declared in the Spring Hill Water Supply Protection Area (WSPA) in response to ongoing dry conditions and low recharge to the groundwater system. Under the declaration, Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) has announced seasonal groundwater allocations to limit stress on the aquifer and ensure equitable access for groundwater users.
The Spring Hill WSPA provides vital groundwater supplies to over 50 irrigators in the Newlyn and Smeaton area as well as contributing to Central Highlands Water's urban needs. Seasonal allocations have been set in accordance with the Water Act 1989 and the process described under 3.13 of the Spring Hill WSPA Groundwater Management Plan.
According to G-MW Manager Water Resources Graeme Hannan, the groundwater levels in the WSPA have not recovered sufficiently from record low levels in recent years and cannot sustain pumping at 100 percent of licence entitlement.
"In consultation with the Spring Hill Groundwater Reference Group and the wider community G-MW has moved to limit the volume of groundwater that can be pumped in 2009/10," said Mr Hannan.
Seasonal allocations have been set as a percentage of licensed entitlement and are based on August groundwater level readings.
|
Zone |
Allocation |
|
100% |
|
80% |
|
50% |
|
100% |
There will be a review of allocations based on the November groundwater level readings. If groundwater levels recover over this period then allocations may be increased.
Groundwater users in the Spring Hill WSPA are encouraged to contact Brendan Cossens on (03) 5833 5437 if they wish to discuss their allocation.
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