- Local storms bring rainfall to catchment
- Managing water sustainably to support WA horticulture
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) has declared unrestricted pumping following rainfall across the catchments of the Lyons and Gascoyne rivers between 12 -14 April. The first flows of the river reached the Carnarvon horticulture area on Wednesday 17 April.
Unrestricted pumping was last declared in June 2018. It means irrigators can access groundwater from the riverbed sands above their annual water entitlement, with no monthly limit.
The Gascoyne River provides the water supply for the horticultural industry in Carnarvon. Growers are encouraged to take advantage of the current unrestricted pumping period.
DWER’s monitoring shows that the inflow is of a high quality and will rapidly recharge the riverbed sands.
The Department will closely monitor the catchment and river levels and continue to provide updates. For further information, contact DWER’s regional office in Carnarvon on 08 9941 6100.
Comments attributed to DWER spokesperson:
"This river flow is good news for Carnarvon's horticultural industry and gives growers a good start to this year's water budget.”
“The Department will continue to help horticulturists with timely river flow advice and work to ensure long term water supply security."
