Granite Belt landholders urged to help department identify groundwater infrastructure

DRDMW South Region Executive Director Hamish Butler said the department was collecting information from landholders on any existing dams, wells or other works that access this groundwater.

“We’re identifying all the current ways that landholders draw on this water, such as bores, wells, or spring-fed dams, to name just a few, so that we can document how many existing works are across the Granite Belt,” he said.

Other types of notifiable works include any excavations, interception trenches or any associated ring tanks.

“Right now we’re gathering all the information and creating a picture about what is actually happening with this water so we can improve our management of the resource,” Mr Butler said.

“As the community is aware, construction of new works that take and store shallow groundwater treated as overland flow water was prohibited in 2016, so we are seeking information on works constructed prior to 2016. We are looking for existing works used for agricultural and horticultural activities, commercial uses, such as nurseries and food processing, or tourism-related activities,” he said.

“Although it is important to note that works only used for domestic or stock purposes do not need to be notified.”

“Our commitment to the Murray Darling Basin Plan requires that we improve our understanding of the resource and to make decisions that are informed by accurate information,” Mr Butler said.

The department is asking landholders to submit the information by September 20, 2023. Forms and supporting material on the department’s website will help landholders provide the relevant information which they can send to the department via email or regular post.

If landholders are in doubt about whether they need to notify the department, they can seek clarification either by calling 07 4529 1347 or emailing GraniteBeltNotice@rdmw.qld.gov.au.

-ENDS-

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