Where is the Martuwarra Fitzroy River, and what makes it so special? Who are the Traditional Owners of the Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment? Who lives around the river, and why is it significant? Why is it important to protect the whole Martuwarra Fitzroy catchment, not just the river channel? Why are flood and drought so important in the Martuwarra Fitzroy River system? Why is groundwater so important to the Martuwarra Fitzroy River? How much surface water and groundwater does the river need to stay healthy? Who takes water from the river and its aquifers, and why? Who controls or manages the catchment area and its water resources? What is the cultural significance of the Martuwarra for Traditional Owners?

How much surface water and groundwater does the river need to stay healthy?

There is no single number that tells us how much water the Martuwarra Fitzroy needs to stay healthy. The river depends on the right pattern of water: flood flows, habitat connection, depth in key pools, good water quality, and groundwater support in critical places. WA government commitments embedded in the draft Fitzroy Derby water plan now say no additional surface water will be licensed. Proposed ongoing groundwater extraction of up to 75.7 gigalitres (GL) a year remains a major concern, every extra gigalitre of water taken from the system has an impact. Traditional Owners, scientists and conservation organisations argue that groundwater planning should be precautionary, because important uncertainties remain about recharge, connectivity and the impacts of extraction on Country.

The WA Government is accepting public submissions until June 30th on its draft water plan that will shape the future of the Martuwarra for generations.

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