Updating the science in the Pioneer Valley water plan

Since the Pioneer Valley water plan was made in 2002, new scientific information has been collected on the water requirements of ecosystems. The ability to monitor stream flows and groundwater levels has also improved.

New knowledge comes from:

  • hydrological assessments
  • ecological assessments
  • social and economic assessments
  • overland flow assessments
  • groundwater assessments
  • engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
  • climate variability assessments.

This new information has been used to update the water plan, including flow objectives and performance indicators to ensure sustainable water management.

Cultural water assessments highlight Traditional Owners’ aspirations, while environmental risk studies refine strategies to protect ecosystems. Tools like the Water Monitoring and Information Portal (WMIP) and Environmental Flows Assessment Program (EFAP) support these updates.

Our water planning science focuses on 8 key themes, all influenced by climate change and uncertainty. These are guided by the Water planning science plan (PDF, 10MB) and our story map.

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