A secure drinking water catchment is the first part of the multi barrier approach to providing safe drinking water. A secure catchment:
- is an effective natural barrier to contamination
- will require less water treatment to remove contaminants
- will decrease the cost and risk associated with downstream treatment and maintenance
The following case study illustrates the importance of drinking water catchment protection. Drinking water catchment protection (PDF 103KB).
Drinking water source protection plans
A drinking water source protection plan (DWSPP) is part of the water quality management plan for a system (Ref: Drinking water quality management).The Department of Water WQPN 41: Private Drinking Water Supplies (External link) outlines the important aspects and information in a DWSPP. Full copies of the state’s drinking water source protection plans (reticulated drinking water schemes) are available on Department of Water’s website (External link).
Hydraulic fracturing in the onshore gas industry and drinking water
Hydraulic fracturing (Fraccing) is a method used to extract gas from onshore gas deposits such as: coal seams, shales and tight gas (deposits surrounded by rock/sand). If not done correctly, the fraccing process has the potential to contaminate surface and underground drinking water sources. For further information refer to this factsheet.
Should recreation be allowed in drinking water catchments?
Due to the risk of contaminating drinking water unrestricted accesss to catchment areas is not supported. For more information about the risks and the activities that are permitted please refer to: Recreational Access to Drinking Water Catchments (PDF 81KB)
The use of herbicides in drinking water catchment areas
Herbicide use in proclaimed drinking water catchment areas are subject to control. Application of herbicides in these areas must comply with PSC 88: Use of herbicides in water catchment areas (PDF 116KB).
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Contact the Water Unit, Environmental Health Directorate: (08) 9388 4999.
