Completed 2024 Upper Darling-Baaka River floodplain groundwater study

Communities, industries and the environment in the upper Darling-Baaka River region have been impacted by recent droughts and floods.

During periods of low flow in the Darling-Baaka River, groundwater has the potential to be an alternative water source for towns, agriculture and mining.

The aim of the upper Darling-Baaka River floodplain groundwater study was to identify and better understand groundwater supplies beneath the floodplain and its surrounds. When combined with innovative water storage options, these groundwater resources could provide enhanced drought security and promote regional development.

The study area covered about 31,000 km² and included a 450 km stretch of the Darling-Baaka River floodplain from Wilcannia to Bourke and Brewarrina.

During the study we compiled existing data as well as collected new data to better understand groundwater in the region. Working with our state partners in the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, the study formed the basis of an integrated understanding of surface water - groundwater interactions, groundwater quality and aquifer systems beneath the upper Darling-Baaka River floodplain.

Objectives

The upper Darling-Baaka River floodplain important for grazing and agriculture, both for regional NSW and for Australia. This study aimed to produce information to help better manage drought conditions:

• identifying new fresh groundwater resources beneath the upper Darling-Baaka River floodplain
• delivering integrated groundwater data to help manage water resources
• finding potential places to store freshwater underground using Managed Aquifer Recharge to provide ongoing and emergency supplies for towns and industries
• reducing risks to surface water and high-quality groundwater from salty groundwater
• improving the effectiveness of salt interception schemes and understanding how weirs affect groundwater resources.

What we did

During this study we collected new data and information to help us better understand groundwater resources. Prior to collecting new data we seek consent from landholders/owners and engage with communities in accordance with state and federal legislation.

While collecting data, we do not enter private property without permission and notification, and we share any information that we collect with landholders and communities. Examples of new data collection included:

• flying an airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey
• acquiring on-ground and downhole geophysics data such as magnetic resonance and electrical conductivity
• sampling groundwater bores for hydrochemistry
• installing groundwater data loggers
• undertaking satellite analysis of water in the landscape (with Digital Earth Australia)
• mapping the geology and aquifer systems.

Important to know

All data produced by Geoscience Australia, including the data from this study, is publicly available after quality assurance has been performed at the Geoscience Australia Community and Education Portal.

All Geoscience Australia staff and contractors complied with Geoscience Australia’s COVID-19 protocols, available upon request.

Contact us

• General enquiries: 1800 800 173, clientservices@ga.gov.au