Abstract
[Truncated abstract] The Gnangara groundwater system underlies approximately 2,200 km2 of the Swan Coastal Plain in Western Australia and is under unprecedented stress due to reduced recharge and increasing over-extraction. Perth, Western Australia (pop. 1.7m) derives 60% of its public water supply from the Gnangara system. Horticulture and domestic self-supply are other major consumers of Gnangara groundwater. The system supports important wetlands and groundwater-dependent ecosystems, many of which are vulnerable and threatened. Stored reserves in the superficial aquifer fell by 700 GL between 1979 and 2008. Over a similar period, annual extraction for public supply increased by more than 350% from the system overall. Some management areas are over-allocated by as much as 69%.
Original language | English |
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Qualification | Doctor of Philosophy |
Publication status | Unpublished - 2013 |