The project is funded by the Australian Government ($1.5 million), and the Western Australia Government ($1.2 million). Australian Government funding is provided through the National Water Grid Fund.
A helicopter using airborne electromagnetics (AEM) survey system to locate palaeochannels which contain brackish groundwater. The data captured will be interpreted and used to inform the project.
Project overview
The project will assess whether brackish palaeochannels can provide emergency water in high-demand agricultural areas of south-west Western Australia (WA).
Palaeochannels are ancient underground riverbeds that no longer support a river. Yet, they often still hold large amounts of groundwater.
Communities and industries in south-west WA are already vulnerable to drought. Climate change is expected to further affect water supply and security.
As groundwater doesn’t evaporate it is less affected by climate change impacts than surface water. The groundwater stored in palaeochannels may be able to provide emergency water during droughts.
Palaeochannel groundwater tends to be brackish. In some areas, it is suitable for many crops, livestock and industrial use. However, treatment is required in other areas.
The project will:
- teach landowners and industry practitioners how to locate groundwater
- pilot and demonstrate a simplified and cost-effective brackish aquifer exploration method, with the results made public
- deliver resources for local users and governments to understand, access and better manage aquifers. This will include aquifer maps and resource availability data for 4 aquifers.
The project will involve new data collection, analysis and site trials. It will partner with public and private participants to test solutions. Project findings may be applicable to similar rural and drought-affected areas across Australia.
Key project benefits
Learn more
The project also builds on, and will contribute to, other National Water Grid Science Program projects: