Water resource management

sa_rural_water_planning

Irrigation development requires access to and use of vital water resources. The following pages provide an overview of the licences and permits required, issues such as water allocations, trading, and available water products. Most water resources in South Australia are prescribed. Each prescribed area has a Water Allocation Plan (WAP) that sets out rules for water licences, allocations and trading.

What is a Water Allocation Plan (WAP)?

A WAP is a legal document summarizing the rules for allocation, use and transfer of water from prescribed water courses. They are prepared under the authority of the Natural Resources Management Act 2004, which provides a listing of the prescribed waters in South Australia. WAPs are prepared by the Natural Resource Management Boards of individual areas. Each plan is then adopted by the Minister of Environment and Conservation in order to become government policy.
 
The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 states that both the needs of the natural environment, and human demands be considered in determining appropriate limits on the amount of water which can be diverted from the water course for all uses. This involves careful investigation of the water resource capacity and sustainability.

Why do we need WAPs?

It is vital that rules are set down for the management of all prescribed water resources within SA. A consistent integrated approach to best practice management of our water resources is the only way to guarantee their longevity. Best science paired with community consultation is an integral part of the development of WAPs.