INVESTIGATION 4 What can be done to address the current issues facing the Great Artesian Basin? Introduction The Great Artesian Basin extends across four states but needs to be managed in a sustainable manner as a single system. Stakeholders need to appreciate the economic, social, cultural and environmental value of the Basin and its water, and the threats from unsustainable water use. Wastage and environmental damage from open drains must be reduced, and entitlements to the water resource must be rationalised. Endangered spring ecosystems and communities must be protected. Although problems with the sustainable use of the Great Australian Basin were evident from the early 20th century, no structure existed to explore solutions on a Basin-wide scale until 1997 when the Great Australian Basin Consultative Council was formed to develop a management plan. The Australian Government also introduced the Great Australian Basin Sustainability Initiative to provide subsidies to enable landholders to rehabilitate and cap wells and install piping. In 2004, the Great Australian Basin Consultative Council was succeeded by the Great Australian Basin Coordinating Committee .
INVESTIGATION 4 What can be done to address the current issues facing the Great Artesian Basin? Introduction The Great Artesian Basin extends across four states but needs to be managed in a sustainable manner as a single system. Stakeholders need to appreciate the economic, social, cultural and environmental value of the Basin and its water, and the threats from unsustainable water use. Wastage and environmental damage from open drains must be reduced, and entitlements to the water resource must be rationalised. Endangered spring ecosystems and communities must be protected. Although problems with the sustainable use of the Great Australian Basin were evident from the early 20th century, no structure existed to explore solutions on a Basin-wide scale until 1997 when the Great Australian Basin Consultative Council was formed to develop a management plan. The Australian Government also introduced the Great Australian Basin Sustainability Initiative to provide subsidies to enable landholders to rehabilitate and cap wells and install piping. In 2004, the Great Australian Basin Consultative Council was succeeded by the Great Australian Basin Coordinating Committee .
great-artesian-basin-teacher-kit.docx