Tree Water Use

A greater knowledge of water-use by trees is necessary if underground water resources are to be managed sustainably. Accordingly, a project to demonstrate the effect of trees on ground water recharge and quality is jointly funded by the Natural Heritage Trust, CSIRO and ForestrySA.

There is considerable debate in South East South Australia over water allocation for a variety of uses, especially irrigation. Claims that trees prevent recharge and use water directly from the aquifer may be used to restrict the planting of trees. This would adversely effect development of industrial and farm forestry. This project aims to demonstrate the effects of trees on recharge and use of aquifer water over a range of typical South East soils. As part of this demonstration, the effects of establishment and management practices (including fertiliser application) on water quality will be assessed.

The short-term objectives of the study are to:

  • quantify tree water use over a range of common site types in the South East region over a two-year period;
  • compare tree water use between P. radiata and E. globulus at one location;
  • quantify movement of nutrients applied to forests on a range of sites.

For further information please contact PIRSA Forestry

Last revised January 2007