Climate-resilient allocation limits and expanded trading rules are two features of a State Government water plan to support future growth and development in five shires north of Perth. The Gingin Groundwater Areas Allocation Plan spans five shires and includes the towns of Bindoon, Chittering, Gingin, Guilderton, Lancelin, Seabird, Dandaragan and Moora.
“This is a very important area with a valued horticultural sector and tree-change lifestyle, however it is feeling some significant climate change impacts,” Ms Davies said. “The allocation limits and licensing rules set in this plan are based on the best available science, including information from recent hydrogeological investigations, environmental studies, rainfall data and trends in groundwater levels in the Gingin plan area.”
The Minister said the plan was developed and finalised through consultation with stakeholders.
“Consultation has been critical in developing this plan, and concerns raised with us centred on the impact of the changing climate and groundwater use on valued rivers such as Gingin Brook, and the reliability of current and future entitlements in the face of growth and climate challenges,” she said. “We have addressed these with a scientifically robust and well-considered approach that increases the security of the region’s water resources and the people and businesses that rely on them.”
Nationals Member for the Agricultural Region Hon Martin Aldridge MLC has welcomed the announcement of the Gingin Groundwater Allocation Plan.
“The coastal Wheatbelt still has significant water available and planning such as this will enable the region to continue to grow and prosper,” Mr Aldridge said.
“In doing so we need to also ensure that our groundwater is sustainable for all users in a drying climate, and in my opinion this plan strikes the right balance.”
