Groundwater Visualisation Modelling in the Northern Territory

Groundwater Visualisation

The Howard East borefield relies on groundwater supplies to satisfy rural and urban residential, horticultural and commercial needs. However, despite recent and significant growth, there is no regional water plan currently in place to ensure that this resource is managed sustainably for future generations.

To assist future water planning, Tropical Rivers and Coastal Knowledge (TRaCK), alongside researchers from Griffith University and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) are developing a 3D model of the Howard East Aquifer. The model will rely on the best available data to help people understand ground water systems and answer the following questions:

• How does the Howard East Aquifer work?
• What effect does the current rate of pumping have on local ground water levels?
• Is the aquifer taking longer to recharge during the wet season?
• Can you see the effects of pumping on the surface water bodies (e.g. Howard Springs, Girraween and McMinns Lagoon)?
• Are older shallower bores likely to run dry in the future?

The model will be able to be provide a detailed cross section of the Howard East Aquifer at specific points of interest in the modelled area. By selecting these areas, users will be able to see the topography, soil type, surface and natural drainage features of the system, as well as watch short animations that illustrate the changes in aquifer levels over time and season.

Community Involvement in Modelling

The research team is inviting local residents to contribute their knowledge about local groundwater and bores to our model by completing a bore survey or participating in a mapping exercise with local staff. All information will be anonymous and assist hydrologists and modellers to account for and explain local observations and trends. The final product will be a free CD distributed to a wide audience through local council and community networks in September 2009. Community meetings and workshops are planned for September 2009. The area to be modelled will include the Howard Springs Nature Park, McMinns Lagoon, Girraween Lagoon, Power and Water’s bores and a large number of new and older private residential blocks.

Find out more about the project and how to get involved here...