This document summarises the groundwater dependent values associated with the Robe River alluvial aquifer and describes the links between these ecosystems and the aquifer.
The Robe River, like most Pilbara rivers is ephemeral, with a highly variable flow regime reliant on summer cyclones and autumn thunderstorms. The alluvial aquifer is recharged from direct infiltration through the riverbed during these unpredictable river flow events.
River pools, riparian vegetation and aquifer ecosystems are identified as being sustained, at least in part, by water from the alluvial aquifer, particularly during periods of no river flow.
The river and riparian ecosystems are of conservation significance at the local scale and provide valuable habitat for several priority fauna species, two federally protected migratory birds and a potentially new fish species. The aquifer ecosystem with its distinct stygofauna species is expected to be of high conservation value.
Conceptual models have been used to describe the links between the ecosystems and the aquifer. Key links have been identified as objectives for estimating ecological water requirements for the system.
The ecological water requirements will be a key input into the determination of a sustainable yield and an allocation limit for the system. Social and cultural water requirements and consumptive demand for water will also be considered during this determination.
An allocation plan covering Pilbara coastal aquifers, including the Robe River alluvial aquifer is scheduled to be completed in 2012. This plan will include allocation limits and management and monitoring frameworks for each resource.
