The unextractable portion of groundwater is considered to be a contingent water asset, and is subject to development of groundwater resources in the region. Currently, there is insufficient information on groundwater resources in the region to estimate the volume available.
Water for irrigation (80,000 to 120,000 ML): The Ord River Irrigation Area is currently undergoing expansion. It is estimated that an additional 80,000 to 120,000 ML will be required for new licences for irrigation in the next two to five years. The amount of water required is subject to land sales and development in the irrigation area, and subsequent approval of licence applications by the Western Australian Department of Water.
Water for urban (public water) supply (500 ML): With the expected development of the Ord River Irrigation Area, there may also be some expansion of urban areas in the immediate area. It is estimated that an additional 500 ML will be required for Public water supply. The amount of water required is subject to land sales and urban development.
Both of these contingent liabilities are within the limits set by the Western Australian Department of Water in the Ord River Water Management Plan (2006).
National Water Account 2010
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