Most groundwater resources have been prescribed to ensure water allocations are sustainable and equitable. The notice of restriction and issue of a notice of intent to prescribe the Western Mt Lofty Ranges apply to all groundwater resources in that region.
The groundwater resources of the Northern Adelaide Plains were first prescribed in 1976. The current water allocation plan for the region was adopted in December 2000. The process of prescription and water allocation planning is both time and resource intensive, involving significant discussions and consultation with the community, technical investigations and other work. However, this is vital to ensure the best outcome for all water users and sustainability of the resource into the future.
The current water allocation plan has been reviewed, and a new plan is being developed which has involved a review of groundwater trends (water level, salinity and use). The new plan will include a revised numerical groundwater model which will be used to define a sustainable groundwater yield for the region. The sustainable yield is likely to be based on managing the underground water resources to a defined range of pressures (water levels). Community consultation on the draft water allocation plan will occur in mid 2008 and it is expected that the Minister will adopt the plan in late 2008.
For information on the process involved, progress towards developing the Water Allocation Plan, and other relevant information, please visit the Northern Adelaide Plains Prescribed Wells Area Water Allocation Plan weblink.