GOULBURN-MURRAY Water has deferred an allocation update for the Campaspe Deep Lead Water Supply Protection Area, saying that groundwater levels currently showed insufficient recovery to support an allocation increase.
G-MW executive manager water resources Graeme Hannan said the Campaspe Groundwater Management Plan allows for a start of season allocation and one allocation update during the course of the season.
"Drought is clearly impacting on the recovery of the Campaspe groundwater resources, so we have opted to delay an official allocation update in the hope that the season may improve and there will be opportunity to increase allocations to customers reliant on the Campaspe Deep Lead”, he said.
He said G-MW hoped to update the allocation before autumn.
"We will continue to monitor groundwater levels throughout the season, however any increase in allocation will depend on significant recovery in the aquifer system; and based on current conditions, this is not promising," Mr Hannan said.
In August 2008 G-MW announced a 50 per cent allocation for the Campaspe Deep Lead Water Supply Protection Area in accordance with the groundwater management plan.
The Campaspe Deep Lead Water Supply Protection Area extends from south of Elmore to Echuca in the CampaspeValley. Seasonal allocations affect over 100 licensed groundwater users in the region.
"The dry conditions experienced in recent years have resulted in reduced recharge to the aquifer system and an increase in demand for groundwater. As a consequence groundwater levels are below the 2002/03 minimum levels set in the groundwater management plan" he said.
"Restrictions are necessary to limit further groundwater level decline. This ensures that the aquifer is being managed effectively for the long term sustainability of the resource and ensures equitable access for all users."
G-MW said the decision was made following consultation with the Campaspe Deep Lead Groundwater Reference Committee.
