On The Land
7 July, 2023
Barron catchment water plan
A new water plan for the Barron catchment has been released by the State Government after a two-year process of rigorous scientific assessment and consultation.
A new water plan for the Barron catchment has been released by the State Government after a two-year process of rigorous scientific assessment and consultation.
The new plan, which replaces the Barron Water Plan 2002, is underpinned by 20 years of scientific data and is the product of more than 30 consultative meetings with water users and stakeholders, including local government, First Nations Peoples, irrigators, environment and catchment care groups, tourism operators and industry experts.
The new Barron Water Plan maintains environmental protections and considers the best available science, including the effects of climate change on future water availability.
An additional 20,550 megalitres of unallocated water from the catchment will meet new and emerging demands for water.
The Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water will now engage with stakeholders in the coming months on the next steps for unlocking this reserve.
Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said the plan would provide certainty for the community, business and industry and balanced environmental and consumptive needs
“Water plans make sure we strike the right balance between water for the environment and water for consumptive use,” he said.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the new water plan also ensured that First Nations Peoples had continued access to water.
“Water is so critical for our region and I’m pleased this water planning process has identifi ed more water to meet new and emerging demands,” she said.
