Syllabus
- investigate the quantity and variability of water resources in Australia and other places, for example:
- analysis of spatial variations in Australia’s water resources eg groundwater, rivers
- explanation of variations in freshwater water availability across Australia eg precipitation, groundwater, runoff
- assessment of variations in freshwater water availability between continents
- analysis of spatial variations in Australia’s water resources eg groundwater, rivers
Australia's Water Resources
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Watch the two videos above and answer the questions below.
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three case studies of water resources
Australia is the world's driest inhabited continent, with scarce and unpredictable water resources. The management of these resources is crucial to the sustainability of its communities, industries, and ecosystems. This information examines three distinct regions of Australia - the Great Artesian Basin, far south coast of NSW, and Sydney regions - with regards to their water resources, geography, hydrology, and sustainable management practices.
GREAT ARTESIAN BASIN
The Great Artesian Basin is one of the largest groundwater basins in the world, covering approximately 22% of Australia. It extends over 1.7 million square kilometers and contains water reserves estimated to be about 65 million megaliters. The Basin is essential to the livelihoods of many rural communities and supports various agricultural activities, including livestock farming, irrigation, and mining.
The Basin's geology is unique, with a layer of sandstone overlying impermeable rocks, which prevent the water from escaping. This natural confinement has led to the creation of a vast underground reservoir, from which water is pumped to the surface using bores.
The management of the Basin's water resources is challenging, given its size and the diverse demands placed on it. Over-extraction of groundwater can lead to declining water levels and adversely impact the Basin's ecosystem. Sustainable management practices have been implemented to balance the economic, social, and environmental needs of the Basin. One of the most effective methods of managing the Basin's water resources is the construction of a network of pipes, which capture excess water and deliver it to areas where it is needed.
FAR SOUTH COAST OF NSW
The far south coast of NSW is an area of remarkable natural beauty, characterized by long stretches of coastline, rolling hills, and lush forests. The region is primarily rural, with farming and forestry being the dominant industries. The water resources of the region are supplied by a network of rivers, including the Bega River, the Tuross River, and the Moruya River.
The management of the region's water resources is vital to the sustainability of the local communities and industries. Over-extraction of water from the rivers can lead to environmental degradation and negatively impact the region's biodiversity. Sustainable management practices have been implemented, such as the use of water-efficient irrigation systems, the construction of rainwater tanks, and the establishment of water catchment programs.
One case study of sustainable water management in the region is the Bega Valley Shire Council's Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan. The plan outlines a comprehensive strategy for the sustainable management of the region's water resources, including the treatment of wastewater, the harvesting of rainwater, and the promotion of water-efficient practices.
SYDNEY
The Sydney region is home to more than 5 million people and is the economic powerhouse of Australia. The region's water resources are supplied by several rivers, including the Nepean, the Hawkesbury, and the Georges River. The region's water supply system is one of the most sophisticated in the world, with large-scale desalination plants, dams, and water recycling facilities.
The management of the Sydney region's water resources is crucial to the sustainability of its communities and industries. Sustainable management practices have been implemented, such as water conservation campaigns, the use of water-efficient appliances, and the establishment of rainwater harvesting programs.
One case study of sustainable water management in the region is the Sydney Water's Love Water campaign. The campaign promotes water conservation and aims to reduce water consumption across the region. The campaign includes a range of initiatives, such as the installation of water-efficient devices in households and the provision of water-saving tips and advice to the community.
The Sydney region is home to more than 5 million people and is the economic powerhouse of Australia. The region's water resources are supplied by several rivers, including the Nepean, the Hawkesbury, and the Georges River. The region's water supply system is one of the most sophisticated in the world, with large-scale desalination plants, dams, and water recycling facilities.
The management of the Sydney region's water resources is crucial to the sustainability of its communities and industries. Sustainable management practices have been implemented, such as water conservation campaigns, the use of water-efficient appliances, and the establishment of rainwater harvesting programs.
One case study of sustainable water management in the region is the Sydney Water's Love Water campaign. The campaign promotes water conservation and aims to reduce water consumption across the region. The campaign includes a range of initiatives, such as the installation of water-efficient devices in households and the provision of water-saving tips and advice to the community.
Refer to the video - Groundwater in Western Australia
Refer to the video - Staying Cool
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Refer to the video - Our water Sources
Refer to the video - Water Quality
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Watch the video above.
- Explain how the Great Artesian Basin functions as a part of the water cycle.
- Find the role of the Great Artesian Basin in supporting healthy ecosystems.
- How did indigenous people use the Great Artesian Basin as a part of their livelihood.
- Explain how water is extracted from the Great Artesian Basin.
- How was bore water used in the development of inland Australia.
- What are the possible implications if we ran out of bore water?
- How has our access to water changed over time in the Great Artesian basin region?
- What actions are being taken in the basin to improve the efficiency of water usage?
Managing a Catchment (link) - Need a computer (not an Ipad) for this.
ACTIVITY
Complete the worksheet below:
australia_water_resources__1_.docx | |
File Size: | 289 kb |
File Type: | docx |