Nominations are now open for members to join the Tindal Mataranka – Daly Waters Water Advisory Committee.
The Committee will provide advice and recommendations to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on the development of a water allocation plan for the Tindall Limestone Aquifer, Mataranka – Daly Waters.
DENR Water Resources Executive Director, Jo Townsend, said the Tindall Limestone Aquifer in the region surrounding Mataranka has diverse values, sustaining the iconic springs of Elsey National Park, dry season flows in the Roper River as well as importantcultural and spiritual values.
Ms Townsend said the aquifer also supports various industries in the region including pastoralism, horticulture, forestry, Indigenous enterprises, fishing and tourism.
“It is imperative that there is a robust water advisory committee in place to support to development of a Water Allocation Plan and that the Committee has diverse representation across the region able to provide a point of contact and exchange on the sustainable use of the resource,” Ms Townsend said.
"The planning boundary has been extended south of Mataranka to take in the Tindall Limestone Aquifer from Larrimah to Daly Waters.
“This area was the subject of a land and water suitability assessment that identified land suitable for irrigated agriculture with water sourced from the Tindall Limestone Aquifer.
“Extending the plan boundary ensures that water allocation planning in the region reflects both current and future development, while protecting the other beneficial uses of water in the region.
“Other responsibilities include providing advice on water management arrangements, discussing water resource investigations, water allocation policies and monitoring programs.”
Anyone interested in becoming a Committee member is urged to nominate before 18 November 2016.
Go to www.landresources.nt.gov.au/water-resources for more information about the Tindal Mataranka – Daly Waters Water Advisory Committee including its terms of reference and a map of the extended area.
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Media Note – Jo Townsend is available for interview on 89244135