Setting plan objectives in the Logan Basin water plan
The draft Logan Basin water plan (PDF, 1.3MB) introduces updates to water allocation security objectives (WASOs) and environmental flow objectives (EFOs) to modernise water management and ensure sustainable resource management and use:
- WASOs focus on providing water security for water allocation holders.
- EFOs aim to protect environmental flows and ecosystems.
Both sets of objectives are supported by performance indicators (PIs) which are calculated using hydrological models. These indicators provide measurable benchmarks to assess changes in water management and ensure decisions align with the plan’s objectives.
Reporting nodes
Reporting nodes are specific locations within the plan area where WASOs and EFOs are assessed. These nodes serve as reference points for evaluating the impacts of water resource development. These have been reviewed as part of the planning process.
Hydrological assessments
Hydrological assessments play a key role in water planning, using mathematical models to simulate water infrastructure, usage, and how water moves through surface and underground systems. These models:
- provide clear data to support decision-making
- generate measurable data to assess WASOs and EFOs
- evaluate the impacts of authorised activities, such as taking or interfering with water.
Supplemented water management
For supplemented water, the draft Logan Basin water plan introduces updates to improve water management while maintaining existing arrangements within the Logan River Water Supply Scheme (WSS). Key points include:
- Allocations: Supplemented water allocations will remain consistent with current entitlements and operational rules.
- Flow objectives: Updated WASOs and EFOs will ensure ecological health and security of downstream water users.
- Statutory releases: Operational dam releases will continue with updated environmental management rules to reflect these obligations.
These changes provide certainty for urban and agricultural water users while supporting environmental requirements.