WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 1 of 27
Water quality protection note 53 May 2014
Dam construction and operation in rural areas
Purpose
This note describes the range of impacts private water supply dams constructed in rural
areas can have on our water resources. It also recommends how dam owners can
minimise the environmental impacts of rural dams.
The Department of Water is responsible for managing and protecting the State’s water
resources. It is also a lead agency for water conservation and reuse. This note offers:
our current views on rural dam construction and operation
guidance on acceptable practices used to protect the quality of Western Australian
water resources
a basis for the development of a multi-agency code or guideline designed to
balance the views of industry, government and the community, while sustaining a
healthy environment.
This note is intended to inform dam owners, government personnel, environmental
consultants and community members on water quality protection aspects of rural dams
from their initial design, through construction, operation and potential closure.
Appendices provide additional background and technical advice as follows:
A. Information on sensitive water resources, note limitations and updates
B. Relevant statutes and administering agencies
C. Unified soils classification
D. Environmental impacts of dams
E. Typical on and off-stream dam designs
F. Data needed for development assessments; followed by references, disclaimer and
feedback.
Scope
This note applies to private water supply dams constructed on rural properties. The Rights
in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 defines a dam as ‘any artificial barrier or levee, whether
temporary or permanent that does or could, impound divert or control water, silt, debris or
liquid borne materials together with its appurtenant works’.
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Dams may be constructed for a number of reasons including:
aquaculture
fire fighting
irrigation of crops
livestock drinking water supplies
wash down supply for enterprises such as dairies
reticulated farm water supply (other than drinking).
This note does not cover dams built for public drinking water supply, for irrigation schemes
involving supplies to multiple properties or storage of mine tailings. Whilst this note is not
intended to cover private drinking water supply dams, it may still offer some useful
information for those planning to construct a dam for alternative or mixed use purposes.
Our Water quality protection note (WQPN) 41: Private drinking water supplies (reference
4d) provides detailed information for those using dams for private drinking water supplies.
This note does not address technical aspects of dam construction. It is recommended that
information be sourced from qualified people with expert geotechnical and engineering
knowledge and experience before beginning construction. Further, dam safety is the
responsibility of the dam owner.
Background
With the arid nature of much of Western Australia, it is often important to store water when
it is more plentiful in the wet season for use during the dry season or droughts. Typically
only a small proportion of dam water comes from direct rainfall, therefore catching runoff
from the surrounding catchment is necessary. To capture water, dams are either built on
or off natural waterways. On-stream dams are built across existing waterways and capture
the stream flow. Off-stream dams rely on runoff diversion channels, drainage lines or
paved catchments to capture rainfall or irrigation run-off, redirect water into the dam via
pumping or are fed from groundwater seepage. As a result the nature of the environment
surrounding a dam needs consideration. The water level in dams fluctuates due to rainfall,
run-off, evaporation, water usage and sub-surface seepage. These factors can also
influence contaminant transfer and concentrations.
Advice and recommendations
The following recommendations aim to prevent rural dams from harming the quality of
water resources. They have been divided into several sections to reflect the types of risk
including legal requirements, impacts on water resources, dam construction, operation and
water quality.
Licensing and legal responsibilities
1 The location and design of the dam should ensure there are no harmful effects on
upstream or downstream properties (except in accordance with a written agreement),
including:
a A significant reduction of the seasonal stream flow that could affect other people’s
aquaculture, tourism ventures or water supplies.
b Flooding of neighbouring properties, access ways or reserves.
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2 A water allocation licence, issued by this department, may be required under section
5C of the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 (Appendix B) to take water from a
waterway (see Table 1).
Table 1: When is a section 5C licence required?
Licence issue Explanation
A water
allocation
licence is
required
used for commercial purposes in any proclaimed groundwater
area
used for commercial purposes from proclaimed water courses
or those within proclaimed surface water areas
from artesian (confined or semi-confined) aquifers anywhere in
Western Australia
A water
allocation
licence is not
required
taking non-artesian groundwater in non-proclaimed areas
taking surface water from non-proclaimed areas or
watercourses
taking limited quantities of surface water for stock (non-
intensive), domestic and ordinary purposes (i.e. riparian rights)
water flowing from springs, until it passes beyond the
boundary of the land on which the spring water rises.
3 A separate permit authorising the disturbance of the bed or banks of proclaimed
waterways may also be required under section 17 of the Rights in Water and Irrigation
Act 1914. Your nearest Department of Water regional office (see Feedback) can
provide advice.
4 Clearing of native vegetation, including areas that will become flooded by the dam, may
require a licence from the Department of Environment Regulation under the
Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004. Contact
the Department of Environment Regulation for more information www.der.wa.gov.au.
5 When a permit is issued under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914 to interfere
with a watercourse, this exempts the permit holder from requiring a clearing permit
under Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004,
regulation 5, item 16. However the permit does not exempt the holder from clearing
approval in environmentally sensitive areas. Therefore, before issuing a permit, this
department seeks advice from the Department of Environment Regulation regarding
any planned clearing.
6 Your local government may need to provide approvals, licences or permits under
planning by-laws. Contact your local government for more information.
7 Dam safety is the responsibility of the dam owner. The Rights in Water and Irrigation
Act 1914 defines responsibilities that apply for dam owners, including:
a The landowner is responsible for ensuring the dam is safely constructed and
maintained.
b The owner is liable for any damage caused as a result of the dam being built.
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For detailed advice about the legal responsibilities of dam owners (including liability for
flooding and dam safety), a qualified and experienced legal practitioner should be
consulted.
Impacts on water resources
While acknowledging the benefits that rural dams provide, they can cause significant
environmental costs. The dam’s location, size, function and permeability of the banks and
base will influence the impacts it has on the local environment.
Typically, the larger the dam, the greater the potential for an adverse environmental
impact. However, small dams built near highly sensitive ecosystems may also cause
significant impacts. A number of small dams built on one waterway will also have a similar
effect to a large dam on total stream flow. How the proponent operates the dam could also
affect how much of a risk the dam poses to water resources. Catchment land use practices
have a strong influence on the quality of surface water sources.
The potential environmental impacts of rural dam construction on water resources include:
Changes in waterway flow regimes and water quality as a result of dam
construction.
Impacts caused during the operation of the dam e.g. release of contaminated water.
Formation of a waterway barrier that impedes the movement of aquatic fauna.
8 Dam owners should make themselves aware of the potential downstream impacts of
their dam. These impacts can affect both the quality and quantity of a water resource.
Water quality has both aesthetic (e.g. taste, appearance and odour) and health related
components (e.g. pathogens, chemical and physical contaminants). For example,
ensure that the water quality of the dam is suitable for the receiving environment before
any discharges occur.
In summary, impacts may come from changes in ecosystem hydrology, release of
sediment, land clearing, changes to aquatic species migration patterns, seepage, dam
failure, translocation of aquatic organisms (particularly in aquaculture) and changes in
water quality parameters including nutrients, turbidity, salinity and pathogen levels. The
potential impacts of dams are described in more detail in Appendix D.
Design and construction
This section covers planning aspects, predicting environmental impacts and the physical
construction of the dam. Most of these recommendations also apply if expansion or any
other significant modification of the dam is carried out after it has been constructed.
The design of a dam is vitally important in reducing the undesirable impacts on water
resources. Incorporation of appropriate design features into a dam to manage these
impacts is recommended during the initial construction phase. It may be very costly and
time consuming to later fix problems that have been encountered because of poor design.
Water quantity issues
9 Before constructing a dam, the applicant should review any relevant water allocation
plans published by this department (see www.water.wa.gov.au > publications > find a
publication > series browse > water resource allocation and planning report).
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10 Your nearest Department of Water regional office (see www.water.wa.gov.au select
Contact us) can also provide information on water availability within a defined allocation
limit. Although water needs to be available within an allocation limit, this does not
guarantee approval of the dam.
11 Environmental water provisions (EWPs) are an important component in determining if
dam construction is likely to threaten aquatic ecological values within a catchment.
EWPs are the water regimes defined via the water allocation planning process taking
into account ecological, social and economic impacts. Water in excess of the EWPs
may be available for consumptive use and defines the sustainable yield of water taken
from managed waterways. If there is concern that a dam will diminish this yield and
threaten the sustainability of downstream ecosystems, then this department may
request a water resource investigation (WRI). If the WRI is not provided, this
department may refuse to issue a licence to build the dam. More information is
provided in Table 2.
Table 2: Water resource investigations (WRI)
The applicant for a water allocation licence should be aware that submission of a WRI
report does not guarantee the issue of a water allocation licence.
When is a water resource investigation required?
local water resource availability is unknown
significant water allocation is sought (over 1,000ML/year)
evidence indicates that the planned water draw may not be ecologically sustainable
risk of detrimental impact to another person or water user, the water resource or its
ecosystem or the environment in which the water resource is situated
when specified in a published catchment management plan.
Who does the investigation?
a suitably qualified and experienced person at the expense of the applicant for a
dam licence.
Reporting
A general outline of what is required includes:
a location plan depicting the dam layout
plan and profiles of the water retaining structure, including its dimensions
calculated annual water yields and resource characteristics
water quality data (pH, salinity, nutrient and toxicology status) benchmarked against
guideline criteria for the intended use (see reference 2a)
prediction of the impacts on waterway flow, other users, the local environment and
overall sub-catchment water availability
proposed monitoring program (water balance ,quality parameters and testing
frequency)
proposed environmental water requirements – further information see our Statewide
policy 5: Environmental water provisions policy for Western Australia, 2000
(reference 4a)
evaluation of alternative water sources.
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12 Dams should be positioned off-stream unless the proponent demonstrates that
measures to construct an off-stream dam have been investigated and construction of
such a dam is not technically viable. Dams constructed off the main waterway channel
are likely to produce a more controllable impact on stream flow (provided the take is
not from dry season flows and is within a defined take period and daily extraction rate).
For typical layouts for on and off-stream dams, see Appendix E.
13 Dams constructed on-stream should have provision to maintain low stream flows and
EWPs. These can be in the form of bypass channels with flow gates or stop boards.
Under-wall outlet pipes with stop valves may be used for occasional wet season
scouring of residues accumulated in the dam. The low-flow period will vary
geographically depending on the seasonal climate. In southern areas of the state,
November to April is normally the low-flow period during which less that 20 per cent of
the annual waterway flow occurs. If there is any inflow to the dam during low-flow
periods (typically as a result of a thunderstorm), then an equivalent amount of water
should be released to maintain aquatic ecological functions downstream.
14 Dams should be designed to provide only the volume of water necessary for the
specified usage, with allowance for evaporation, seepage and a safety factor for rainfall
variability. This department normally opposes dams being built purely for aesthetic
purposes as they are incompatible with efficient water use.
15 Rural dams should have a holding capacity appropriate to annual usage requirements
(i.e. dams should not remove excessive amounts of water from the catchment). Expert
advice should be sought to determine the appropriate size for a dam.
16 The Department of Agriculture and Food (www.agric.wa.gov.au) provides guidance on
water requirements for some types of livestock and crops (reference 3).
17 The Department of Fisheries (www.fish.wa.gov.au) can advise on requirements for
aquaculture projects.
18 A cost-benefit analysis should be used to predict whether it is economically viable to
build a dam with a capacity to meet anticipated water consumption (especially during
dry years). Computer software packages are available to assist these analyses.
19 Dams should have appropriately constructed spillways and/or bypass channels to
return water to the original waterway. These facilities should provide sufficient
freeboard to prevent overtopping of the dam wall and reduce the risk of dam failure
during periods of high or extended rainfall. They should be designed and constructed to
reduce potential erosion and pressure on the dam wall.
20 Dam storage freeboard should provide for at least a 1 per cent AEP (annual
exceedence probability) storm event.
21 The site investigation and selection should optimise the sustainable use of available
water within a dam’s catchment. The size of the catchment, soil and vegetation
characteristics and path of surface run-off water determines what water is available
within a catchment. Contour maps should be used to predict the path of rainfall and
irrigation run-off within the dam’s catchment.
22 Rainfall, evaporation and run-off data should be sourced online from the Australian
Bureau of Meteorology (www.bom.gov.au) and Engineers Australia (reference 5). This
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data should be used to aid site selection, determine dam capacity and choose the
optimum season for construction.
23 A dam water balance should be prepared that includes water inputs from rainfall and
run-off, and outputs from evaporation, seepage and water use. The water balance will
help identify whether the dam is capable of meeting the water requirements for its
intended purpose.
24 The dam design should take into account statistical rainfall information for ‘dry’ years
based on Australian Bureau of Meteorology records and climate variability predictions
(see reference 1).
Water quality issues
25 Rural water supply dams should not be constructed within priority 1 (P1) areas or
reservoir protection zones of public drinking water source areas (PDWSAs) (see
Appendix A) unless approved in writing by the Department of Water. This is to minimise
the risk of harm to water quality or availability of the drinking water source. P1 areas
are managed using the principle of risk avoidance.
26 Rural dam margins should have a buffer zone of at least 100 m from septic tanks and
other sources of faecal contamination to reduce the risk of pathogen and nutrient entry.
27 To reduce the potential damage caused by land clearing, only the minimum amount of
vegetation necessary should be removed. This should match the footprint of the dam
when full plus an allowance for dam protection linked to potential tree root intrusion.
The benefits that vegetation surrounding a dam can provide should be considered. Our
WQPN 6: Vegetated buffers to sensitive water resources provides more detail
(reference 4d).
Construction issues
28 The best available lining materials (imported to the site or from a local borrow pit)
during the dam construction should be used to reduce the likelihood of the dam walls
failing and flooding downstream areas (see reference 4d, WQPNs 26 and 27).
29 Local soil types should be tested to determine their suitability for use in a water-
retaining structure, see Department of Agriculture and Food’s website topic ‘dam’
(reference 3a). Clay-based soils are generally considered the best for constructing dam
embankments. The unified soil classification system also provides useful information in
determining the suitability of soil types for dam construction (Appendix C).
30 Test drilling of soil and water should be carried out prior to construction to determine
salinity levels. If salinity levels are excessive, then alternative sites may need to be
considered. This issue is extremely important where fresh water sits over a saline
aquifer or soils are high in salt. When the dam is constructed it may tap into these
sources of salt, creating stored water that is unusable and an environmental hazard.
31 If an on-stream dam could block the migration of any aquatic fauna, then the design
should include additional infrastructure to facilitate this movement, such as fish ladders
(see Water note 26: Simple fishways (reference 4c)).
32 During construction, engineered bypass channels should be used to divert stream flow
around the construction site to minimise sediment transport downstream.
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33 Dams should be built during the dry season to allow construction without stormwater
disturbing the earthworks.
34 Soil embankments should have consistent low permeability soil characteristics, be
moisture conditioned and compacted and have appropriate shape and dimensions, so
they are sufficiently sturdy to prevent failure of the structure. The amount of weight and
subsequent pressure on the dam walls from the dam water should not be
underestimated. Organic material in the dam wall, such as dead tree trunks, roots and
plant matter, should be removed as the dam wall can weaken and fracture as the
organic material decays.
35 Some seepage from the dam will inevitably occur. An infiltration rate of less than 1 x
10-9 m per second is an acceptable level of seepage. Soil compaction, material
blending or additives such as concrete, bentonite, geotextiles and fabrics (artificial
liners) should be used to reduce water loss through seepage (see our WQPN 26:
Liners for containing pollutants, using synthetic membranes and WQPN 27: Liners for
containing pollutants, using engineered soils (reference 4d)). A cut-out trench under the
dam wall, made using low permeability material, can also reduce seepage. The
geology underlying the dam site will also influence seepage rates.
36 Dams built with fractured and porous rocks under the dam structure tend to have
higher rates of seepage and a higher chance of the structure failing (see reference 9 -
Romanov et al. 2003).
37 Grouting or water stops should be considered if weathered or fracture zones exist
beneath the footprint of the water reservoir and at dam wall pipe penetrations.
38 The Western Australian Department of Agriculture and Food provides information
about the construction of farm dams online, which should be used for guidance (see
reference 3a).
39 For large reservoirs, in steep terrain or where dam wall may be affected by wave
action, surface protection (e.g. rock armouring) should be used to minimise erosion.
Dam operation
Many of the potential impacts from operation of dams can be reduced if the dam is well
designed and constructed (see previous sections).
40 Evaporation results in significant loss of water from dams. The use of windbreaks, such
as trees, will reduce evaporation rates by decreasing wind velocity. Deep dams with
low surface area to volume ratios will also have lower evaporation losses. Floating
covers or suspended shade covers can also be used to reduce evaporation,
particularly for smaller dams.
41 A number of measures may be taken to reduce the turbidity of dam water and control
algal blooms, including:
a Dam wall construction using a low-permeability core, with rock-armoured outer
banks.
b Use of a well-compacted liner and embankment materials (see WQPN 27,
reference 4d).
c For large dams, the dam design and orientation should minimise wave action.
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d Where viable, avoid introduction of aquatic species into the dam that stir up
sediment.
e Filter or chemically treat dam water, if needed to remove suspended solids.
f Use settling ponds or vegetation filters to improve the quality of any released water.
g Use appropriately engineered inlets for off-stream dams (see Appendix D).
h Control of livestock access to the dam by fencing and pumping water to stock
troughs (see reference 4c). This limits water contamination by pathogens and
nutrients, and minimises bank erosion.
i Use shallow-rooted vegetation cover, such as endemic species of perennial shrubs
or grasses on dam embankments. Stockpiling topsoils during construction then
spreading it across the dam walls after construction and seeding with grass can
create a perennial vegetation cover.
42 Controlling catchment nutrient flows is a complex task. The best way to prevent nutrient
build-up and algal blooms within dams is to ensure the surrounding catchment land
uses follow best management environmental practice.
Best practice examples that help control nutrient build up within dams include:
a Apply fertiliser sparingly on catchment cropland according to supplier’s instructions
and the target vegetation’s nutrient requirements.
b Maintain vegetation buffers around the dam (see WQPN 6, reference 4d).
c For aquaculture dams, maintain sustainable aquatic stock densities and avoid
overfeeding.
d Use barrier fences and well-located drinking troughs to prevent livestock access to
the dam or its feeder streams.
43 Livestock access to dam feeder drains should also be controlled to prevent microbial
contamination. Removing any dead animals from the dam surrounds and maintaining
good animal husbandry practices to prevent stock from becoming diseased will reduce
the risk of pathogens entering dam waters.
44 Treatment of the water before it enters the dam, via natural grass or wetland filters, will
also reduce the likelihood of pathogens entering the water. If the dam is being used for
livestock water supplies or for aquaculture filters can help reduce the risk of disease
outbreaks. Knowledge of land uses in the catchment will help in predicting the risk of
pathogen entry into the dam.
Operational water quality
45 Water quality testing should be carried out to determine if dam water contains toxins or
pathogens that threaten the desired water use. If significant contamination is found,
then urgent remedial action should be taken to control the contamination source.
46 Good management practice can play an important part in controlling fluctuations in
water quality. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the dam quality is
recommended. Regular testing and analysis of the water will provide a warning if
changes are occurring (such as algal blooms) and allow action to be taken prior to a
significant problem emerging.
47 The water quality parameters of alkalinity, biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved
oxygen, electrical conductivity (salinity), pH, temperature, turbidity, nitrogen as
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ammonia, nitrogen as nitrate, total phosphorus, orthophosphate, faecal coliforms,
faecal streptococci and chlorophyll ‘A’ are commonly used for water characterisation
(De Ceballos et al. 1998).
48 It is expensive and time-consuming to regularly test water quality. When deciding how
often to test water quality and what parameters to test for, the sensitivity of the
surrounding environment, the dam’s function and catchment land uses should be taken
into account.
49 National water quality management strategy papers such as the Australian and New
Zealand guidelines for fresh and marine water quality (reference 2a) provide detailed
guidance on water quality for use in primary industries.
50 Our WQPN 2: Aquaculture (reference 4d) provides parameters for the discharge of
water used in small-scale aquaculture ventures and provides other useful information
for those looking to construct a dam for direct or indirect use in aquaculture.
51 The Department of Agriculture and Food has published guidance on controlling some
specific water quality issues within dams (Farmnote 41/04, reference 3c).
52 Valved outlets fitted to scour the dam should not allow escape of aquaculture stock
from the reservoir. Accessible screens and filters should be installed to manage on any
water flowing from a dam holding exotic aquatic animals. Feral fish, crustaceans,
molluscs and aquatic weeds present a major threat to natural ecosystems.
53 Generic guidelines to prevent chemicals, such as pesticides and fuels, from entering
the dam and subsequently causing damage to water resources include:
a using appropriate, safe chemicals suited to the task at hand
b conforming to relevant Australian standards and codes
c following the manufacturer’s instructions for chemical storage and use
d conforming to material safety data sheets for the chemicals in use
e using guidance provided in our WQPN 7: Chemical blending, WQPN 10:
Contaminant spills – emergency response and WQPN 65: Toxic and hazardous
substances – storage and use (reference 4d).
54 There are many different land uses across rural WA and so various chemical residues
could enter dams. It is beyond the scope of this note to deal with each chemical
individually, hence precautions should be taken based on chemicals likely to be used in
conjunction with local land uses.
55 If an off-stream rural dam is filled by pumping from a waterway, no pumping should
occur during low stream-flow periods.
56 If any pumps used on the dam are powered by generators, fuel and oil should be
managed as recommended in our WQPN 65: Toxic and hazardous substances –
storage and use and WQPN 56: Tanks for above ground chemical storage (reference
4d).
57 All operational data recorded for the dam should be archived for a minimum of two
years for later reference. This includes plans, water resource investigations, water flow
and usage data, the results from water quality tests and in situ water treatment. This
allows analysis of this information that may show trends, such as changes in dam
water parameters over time, and can be useful in providing information when problems
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are encountered. This information can also be reviewed when the dam is being
decommissioned at the end of its useful life.
Dam removal
58 Removal of dams at the end of their useful life can cause environmental impacts. Local
ecosystems should be assisted to recover to pre-dam conditions. However this may
prove impractical as environmental damage caused may not be reversible.
59 The ability and effort expended to allow an aquatic ecosystem to recover may depend
on its sensitivity as well as the length of time that the dam has been in place. Different
parts of the ecosystem will recover at different rates, with riparian vegetation typically
having the longest recovery time (Doyle et al. 2005).
60 Many of the problems encountered during dam construction will also be encountered
during its removal. This includes the release of sediments, changes in water flow
patterns, release of contaminated water and escape of aquatic species. Extensive
planning should be undertaken and protective measures implemented when
decommissioning a dam to reduce the environmental impacts.
Appendix A: Information on sensitive water resources, note limitations and updates
Sensitive water resources
Our water resources sustain ecosystems, aquatic recreation and aesthetic values as well
as providing drinking, industry and irrigation supplies. Along with breathable air,
uncontaminated water is essential for viable communities. Natural water resources have to
remain within defined quality limits to retain their ecological, social and economic values.
Hence they require appropriate protection measures to minimise contamination.
Information on water quality parameters and processes to maintain water values are
published in the Australian Government’s national water quality management strategy
papers. These papers are available online at <www.environment.gov.au> select water >
water policy and programs > water quality.
The Department of Water strives to improve community awareness of catchment
protection measures (for both surface water and groundwater) as part of a multi-barrier
protection approach to sustain acceptable water resource quality. Human activity and
many land uses pose a risk to water quality if contaminants in significant quantities are
washed or leached into water resources.
Sensitive waters include estuaries, natural waterways, wetlands and groundwater. These
waters support one or more of the environmental values described below.
Public drinking water sources
Overview
A public drinking water source area (PDWSA) is the collective name given to any area
proclaimed to manage and protect a community drinking water source. PDWSAs include
underground water pollution control areas, water reserves and catchment areas.
These are administered by the Department of Water under the provisions of the
Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Act 1909 or the Country Areas Water
Supply Act 1947.
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For online information on the location of a PDWSAs, see < www.water.wa.gov.au > select
tools and data > maps and atlases > geographic data atlas, then open environment >
public drinking water source areas.
Within PDWSAs, priority areas (P1, P2 and P3) are defined via publicly consulted drinking
water source protection plans or land use and water management strategies. Priority areas
are used to guide land planning, rezoning and development approval processes. Priority
areas are assigned considering the current local planning scheme zoning, land tenure, the
water source’s strategic value and its vulnerability to harm. Each priority area is managed
using a specific risk-based strategy to provide for effective water resource protection. This
department develops these documents in consultation with other government agencies,
landowners, industry and the community.
P1 areas are defined to ensure human activity does not degrade the water source. These
areas are declared over land where the provision of high-quality drinking water for public
use is the primary beneficial land value. P1 areas typically cover land controlled by the
state government or one of its agencies. These areas are managed under the principle of
risk avoidance and so most land development and human activity is normally opposed.
P2 areas are defined to ensure there is no increased risk of pollution to the water source –
once a source protection plan has been published. These areas are declared over land
where low-intensity development exists (such as low intensity rural use). Protection of
public water supply sources is a high priority in P2 areas. These areas are managed in
accordance with the principle of risk minimisation, and so the intensity of development is
restricted (with management conditions) and activities with a low water contamination risk
are acceptable.
P3 areas are defined to manage the risk of pollution to the water source. These areas are
declared over land where public water supply sources must co-exist with other land uses
such as residential, commercial and/or light industrial development. Protection of P3 areas
is achieved through land use management measures provided via environmental guidance
(e.g. these protection notes) or via site-specific development approval conditions to limit
the water resources contamination risk from the land use or activity. If, however, the water
source becomes contaminated, then water supplied from P3 sources may need to be
treated more intensively or an alternative water source commissioned.
Additional protection zones are defined close to the point where drinking water is extracted
or stored. These zones are called wellhead protection zones (WHPZs) and reservoir
protection zones (RPZs). Statutory land use constraints apply to activities within these
zones surrounding sources to safeguard waters most vulnerable to contamination.
WHPZs are assigned within the perimeter of water production wells based on hydrological
factors. Statutory land use restrictions apply in these zones as groundwater moves rapidly
towards wells due to aquifer depressurisation by pumping.
Any contaminants leaching from the ground surface in WHPZs could rapidly migrate into
scheme water supplies (before effective remedial action can occur). In sedimentary
basins, WHPZs are usually circular, with a radius of 500 m in P1 areas and 300 m in P2
and P3 areas. These zones do not extend outside PDWSA boundaries.
RPZs are defined over and around public water supply dams or pipe-head reservoirs.
Statutory access and land use restrictions apply in RPZs. The aim is to restrict the
likelihood of contaminants being deposited or washing into water sources in any runoff.
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RPZs within state-controlled land cover an area up to two kilometres measured outward
from the reservoir top water-level and include the inundated area when the reservoir is full.
For additional explanatory information on PDWSAs, see our Water quality protection note
(WQPN) 25 Land use compatibility in public drinking water source areas, WQPN 36
Protecting public drinking water source areas, WQPN 75: Proclaimed public drinking water
source areas, WQPN 76: Land use planning in PDWSA and WQPN 77: Risk assessment
in PDWSA. These notes are available online at <www.water.wa.gov.au> select
publications > find a publication > series browse.
Established activities within PDWSAs
Many land use activities were approved and established before publication of a source
protection plan or land use strategy. The operators of these activities should ensure that
modern environmental facilities and practices are progressively implemented so the water
resource’s contamination risk is minimised (within practical and economic constraints).
New or expanded activities in PDWSAs
Any development proposals that could affect a drinking water source should be referred to
this department’s regional office with detailed supporting information for assessment and a
written response.
The development proposal may be approved (with or without conditions); additional
information may be sought before a decision is made; or the proposal opposed due to a
statutory or policy conflict or inadequate protective measures provided to safeguard the
water source. To assist the assessment, operators should demonstrate that under all
operating conditions the materials and processes used on-site do not pose a significant
water contamination risk.
Buffers to water supply sources
Native vegetation buffers should be used to separate compatible land use areas from the
full supply level of reservoirs their primary feeder streams and/or production bores used as
a source of drinking water. Advice on suitable buffer forms and dimensions is provided in
our WQPN 6 Vegetated buffers to sensitive water resources.
Within clearing control catchments
Controls on vegetation clearing for salinity management are provided under part IIA of the
Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947.
These controls apply in the Wellington Dam, Harris River Dam, Mundaring Weir and
Denmark River catchment areas and the Kent River and Warren River water reserves.
Details of clearing controls may be obtained from our regional offices, see online
information at <www.water.wa.gov.au>, select Contact us.
Private water supply sources
Those sources vulnerable to contamination include:
drinking water sources for people or domesticated animals
commercial or industrial water supply sources (requiring specific qualities that support activities such as aquaculture, cooling, food or mineral processing, or crop irrigation)
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 14 of 27
urban or municipal irrigation sources (where water quality may affect vegetation performance or people’s health and wellbeing).
Underground ecosystems
Important underground ecological functions that may be at risk of contamination include
groundwater- and cave-dwelling animals and microorganisms (generally located within
soils that have open pore spaces such as sand, gravel and limestone).
Waterway ecological and social values
Waterways that have high social and conservation significance are described in the
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Guidance statement 33 Environmental guidance
for planning and development, section B5.2.2. This statement is available online at
<www.epa.wa.gov.au> select policies and guidelines > environmental assessment
guidelines > guidance statements.
This department also manages waterways throughout Western Australia under Section 9
of the Water Agencies (Powers) Act 1984 and the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914.
For online information, see <www.water.wa.gov.au> and select managing water. Apart
from aquatic ecosystems and water sources, waterways provide social values including
aesthetic appeal, drainage pathways and recreational opportunities for watercraft use,
fishing, tourism, swimming and related aquatic activities. Engineered drains and
constructed water features are normally not assigned ecological values because their
function and operational factors outweigh their ecological value.
We also administer the Waterways Conservation Act 1976 which defines Western
Australian waterways subject to specific regulatory controls. Currently proclaimed
waterways are the Avon River, Peel-Harvey Inlet, Leschenault Inlet, Wilson Inlet and
Albany waterways management areas.
Swan River Trust management area
The Swan River Trust is responsible for the protection and management of the Swan-
Canning River system to safeguard its ecological and social values under the Swan and
Canning Rivers Management Act 2006.
Approval from the Trust is needed for any land- or water-based development within the
Swan, Canning, Helena or Southern Rivers and their associated foreshore areas - the
Swan River Trust development control area (DCA). Activities and development close to
these areas are likely to have an effect on the waters of the river system. Development
proposals within or abutting the DCA should be referred to the Trust for comment.
Developments distant from the DCA, but near river tributaries or drainage systems, that
could affect waters within the area, e.g. by leachate in groundwater flow, should also be
referred to the Trust for assessment and advice. For detailed information, see online
advice at <www.swanrivertrust.wa.gov.au>, phone +61(8) 9278 0900 or email:
Wetland ecology
Many important wetlands have been given conservation status under the Ramsar
convention (described online at <www.ramsar.org>), Japan and Australia migratory bird
agreement (JAMBA), China and Australia migratory bird agreement (CAMBA), and
Republic of Korea and Australia migratory bird agreement (ROKAMBA).
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 15 of 27
Wetlands are also protected under various Australian and Western Australian government
policies. Conservation wetland data to guide land planning and development activities is
provided via the following publications:
Scheduled wetlands are defined by the Australian Government in the Directory of
important wetlands in Australia, available online at <www.environment.gov.au>
select water > water topics > wetlands.
Wetlands with defined high conservation significance are described in the EPA
guidance statement 33 Environmental guidance for planning and development
(reference 6- section B4.2.2). This statement is available online at
<www.epa.wa.gov.au> select policies and guidelines > environmental assessment
guidelines > guidance statements.
The Department of Parks and Wildlife is the custodian of the state wetland datasets, and is
responsible for maintaining and updating relevant information. Visit www.dpaw.wa.gov.au
for more information on wetlands..
Wetlands datasets identified for conservation value or for resource enhancement include:
Geomorphic wetlands of the Swan Coastal Plain
South coast significant wetlands
Geomorphic wetlands Augusta to Walpole (this dataset awaits detailed evaluation).
Wetlands that are highly disturbed by land use, or have been landscaped to provide a
social amenity or drainage control function in urban settings, may not be assigned
conservation values unless they are actively managed to maintain these values.
Note limitations
Many Western Australian aquifers, waterways and wetlands await detailed scientific
evaluation, present data on their quality is sparse and their values remain unclassified.
Unless demonstrated otherwise, any natural waters that are slightly disturbed by human
activity are considered to have sensitive environmental values.
Community support for these water values, the setting of practical management objectives,
provision of sustainable protection services and effective implementation are vital to
protecting or restoring water resources for both current needs and those of future
generations.
This note provides a general guide on environmental issues, and offers solutions based on
data searches, professional judgement and precedents. Recommendations made in this
note do not override any statutory obligation or government policy statement. Alternative
practical environmental solutions suited to local conditions may be considered. This note’s
recommendations shall not be used as this department’s policy position on a specific
matter, unless confirmed in writing. In addition, regulatory agencies should not use this
note’s recommendations in place of site-specific development conditions based on a
project’s assessed environmental risks. Any regulatory conditions should consider the
values of the local environment, the safeguards in place and take a precautionary
approach.
Where a conflict arises between this note’s recommendations and any proposed activity
that may affect a sensitive water resource, this note may be used to assist negotiations
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 16 of 27
with stakeholders. The negotiated outcome should not result in a greater water quality
contamination risk than would apply if the recommended protection measures were used.
Water quality protection note updates
This note will be updated as new information is received, industry/activity standards
change and resources permit. The currently approved version is available online at
<www.water.wa.gov.au> select publications > find a publication > series browse > water
quality protection notes.
Appendix B: Statutory approvals relevant to this note include:
What’s regulated? Western Australian statutes Regulatory body/agency
Soil erosion control Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945
Department of Agriculture and Food <www.agric.wa.gov.au>
Discharging of materials into the environment
Environmental Protection (Unauthorised discharges) Regulations 2004
Department of Environment Regulation <www.der.wa.gov.au>
Licensing of prescribed premises that pollute
Environmental Protection Act 1986 - Part V Environmental Regulation
Land clearing, effects of erosion, salinity, land drainage & flooding
Environmental Protection (Clearing of Native Vegetation) Regulations 2004
Aquaculture licensing Fish Resources Management Act 1994
Fish Resources Management Regulations 1995
Department of Fisheries <www.fish.wa.gov.au>
Management of human wastes, community health issues Pesticides use, storage, handling & disposal (including herbicides) Possession and use of poisons
Health Act 1911
Health (Pesticides) Regulations 1956 Poisons Act 1964
Department of Health <www.health.wa.gov.au> Local government
Transport, storage and handling of fuels, solvents, explosive and dangerous goods
Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2007
Department of Mines and Petroleum- Resources safety division <www.dmp.wa.gov.au>
Licence to take surface water Permit to interfere with bed and banks of a waterway
Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914
Department of Water <www.water.wa.gov.au
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 17 of 27
What’s regulated? Western Australian statutes Regulatory body/agency
Land use activities in posing a risk to sensitive waters e.g. within public drinking water source areas and proclaimed catchments of waterways
Metropolitan Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Act 1909 ;Country Areas Water Supply Act 1947 Waterways Conservation Act 1976
Emergency response planning
Fire and Emergency Services Authority of WA Act 1998
Department of Fire and Emergency Services <www.fesa.wa.gov.au>
Impact on the values and ecology of land or natural waters
Environmental Protection Act 1986 -Part IV Environmental impact assessment
Minister for the Environment advised by the Environmental Protection Authority <www.epa.wa.gov.au>
Land zoning and development approval including subdivision of land
Planning and Development Act 2005
Western Australian Planning Commission; Department of Planning <www.planning.wa.gov.au> Local government
Relevant statutes are available from the State Law Publisher at <www.slp.wa.gov.au>.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 18 of 27
Appendix C: Unified soil classifications
Symbol Description
GW Well graded gravels
GP Poorly graded gravels
GM Silty gravels
GC* Clayey gravels
SW Well graded sands
SP Poorly graded sands
SM Silty sands
SC* Clayey sands
ML Inorganic silts with low liquid limits
CL* Inorganic clays with low liquid limits
OL Organic silts with low liquid limits
MH Inorganic silts with high liquid limits
CH* Inorganic clays with high liquid limits
OH Organic clays with high liquid limits
Pt Peat and highly organic soils
* These soils are considered the best for dam construction
Key to symbols used in the unified soil classifications
First and/or second letter Definition Second Letter Definition
G Gravel P Poorly graded
S Sand W Well graded
M Silt H High liquid limit
C Clay L Low liquid limit
O Organic Pt Peat
Source: Adapted from Waters and Rivers Commission, 1993, WP 159: Guidelines for the
design and construction of small farm dams in the Warren Area, Government of Western
Australia, Perth.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 19 of 27
Appendix D: Environmental impacts of dams in rural areas
Construction impacts
Dam construction has been linked with a number of environmental changes. These include
major impacts on the hydrology of waterway and wetland ecosystems by altering the
timing, magnitude and frequency of water movement. The changes in water movement
that a dam creates may threaten the ecological values of water-dependent ecosystems.
These ecosystems require regular seasonal flow cycles to maintain aquatic biota and
ecosystem processes (often referred to as environmental flows). Under this department’s
Statewide policy 5: Environmental water provisions policy for Western Australia,
environmental water provisions (EWPs) will help determine if the ecological water
requirements for an ecosystem are being fully or partially met. This, in turn, will
demonstrate if a dam is likely to threaten the ecological values by reducing water flow. The
need to maintain flows within a waterway is supported by provisions in the Rights in Water
and Irrigation Act 1914. This act requires that dams do not make a sensible reduction
(noticeable change) in the flow volume of a waterway.
Large dams have been implicated in the elimination of floods, resulting in changes to
riparian vegetation. This reduces biodiversity and may cause major changes in food webs
(Magilligan & Nislow 2005). While the types of dams necessary to cause such changes are
much larger that those typically used in rural areas of WA, a series of small dams on a
waterway can influence local flood patterns and consequently have significant
environmental effects. Maintaining environmental flows requires not just minimum flows,
but appropriate seasonal timing of flows for maintaining the ecosystem.
The Environmental Protection (Unauthorised Discharges) Regulations 2004 make it an
offence to release sediment into the environment. This is particularly important during
construction of the dam when earthworks are being carried out. The earthworks can
expose topsoils and significant rainfall may lead to erosion and turbid water. Altering the
path of a waterway during the construction of dam may also be necessary (such as
diverting the flow around the dam site so that water is not entering the dam during
construction). Any loose surface material in the path of the new flow may be carried
downstream and contribute to altered flows in the waterway or sedimentation in
downstream dams or pools.
The clearing of forested land to construct the dam could also cause the water table to rise,
exacerbating the salinity risk to the dam. If the dam is built close to the water table, the risk
of this happening is increased. Clearing for individual farm dams is likely to be limited and
have minimal effect on the water table. The cumulative effect of clearing for a number of
dams in a sub-catchment is more likely to create this type of impact.
Vegetation around the dam helps to prevent erosion, improve water quality, provide storm
protection, retain nutrients and can restrict the growth of nuisance plants and algae. Dam
construction can also destroy riparian and wetland vegetation and fauna habitat.
Dams constructed on-stream provide a detrimental physical barrier for the movement of
aquatic species. This movement might be an essential part of their life cycle, such as an
upstream fish migration to spawn.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 20 of 27
Operational impacts
The potential threat to water resources from the operation of the dam includes failure of
the dam structure, contamination of stored water or changes in water quality and
subsequent release of this water, and escape of aquatic organisms from the dam. A
number of measures can be taken to reduce the risks of these events happening.
Failure of the dam walls and subsequent release of water and construction debris has the
potential to cause more damage than a flood. Poor compaction of the dam structure can
lead to increased seepage and aid the transport of contaminants. This can also increase
the erosion from the dam, resulting in sediment being transferred downstream.
Changes in dam water quality may occur for a number of reasons. Relatively still dam
waters can act as a trap for nutrients. These nutrients may cause algal blooms within the
dam. If nutrient-rich water leaves the dam, it can contribute to eutrophication downstream.
Nutrients can be introduced to the dam from aquaculture effluent and livestock waste, the
application of fertilisers around the dam and run-off from surrounding properties. The still
waters of a dam can cause seasonal stratification to occur. This can lead to water
temperature changes, particularly during summer, exacerbating ecological problems.
Changes in the turbidity and the level of suspended solids within the dam water may also
damage downstream water resources. Turbid water can alter ecosystems in a number of
ways. Shading of aquatic plants causing death, reduced visibility of aquatic organisms can
affect their behaviour (such as detection of predators) and the benthic layer can be
smothered as suspended particles settle out of the water column.
Scouring of the dam during maintenance, algal blooms, livestock access to the dam,
sediment transportation from the upper catchment and erosion of dam walls can increase
turbidity within the dam. If this turbid water escapes either through flow bypass or weir
overflow it then has the potential to cause damage to the downstream ecosystem.
Dams may also reduce by the amount of sediment being transported in the waterway.
Dams may trap sediment flows from upstream preventing normal downstream settlement,
resulting in increased scouring and erosion of the waterway.
Erosion may cause plants to be uprooted resulting in significant damage to riparian
vegetation. Changes in flow patterns over the life of the dam may also affect riparian
vegetation, i.e. some species of flora rely on water movement for reproduction.
The salinity of dam water may increase over time as evaporation and refilling causes salts
to accumulate within a reservoir base layer. The high evaporation and low flow rates
occurring during summer will speed up this process within the dam. This coincides with
low flows within waterways located in southern areas of WA when the capacity of the
environment to assimilate the salts, should they be released from the dam, is reduced.
This can result in proportionally larger changes in salinity.
Water may also become contaminated with chemicals used within the catchment.
Examples include pesticides sprayed on grape vines and antibiotics used in aquaculture.
The many different uses of land across WA means that a number of potentially harmful
agricultural chemicals could be used near rural dams.
Aquatic animals that escape or are released in dam water can have significant adverse
impacts on water resources. These animals can act as carriers for pathogenic diseases
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 21 of 27
and cause disease outbreaks. They can often out compete indigenous species, increase
water turbidity and contribute to nutrient enrichment of waters.
Pathogens introduced to the water by livestock could be released from the dam (through
the dam overflowing or being drained) into nearby waterways. If these species are exotic
they could alter the ecological balance and cause significant damage to the ecosystem if
released. As an example, cow faeces may contain Cryptosporidium and Giardia, that are
protozoa that cause gastric disease in human and animals. Both of these microbes were
implicated in the Sydney water crisis of 1998. Allowing stock access to dams increases the
risk of contaminants entering the dam and from there flowing into other water sources.
Animal corpses that end up in dams may also introduce pathogens to the water.
Seepage is very common, particularly for poorly designed and constructed dams, and can
account for up to 50 per cent of water loss from a dam (Brainwood et al, 2004). It is also
an effective pathway for nutrients, chemicals, pathogens and other potential pollutants to
leave the dam and enter downstream water resources. Therefore controlling seepage is
important in minimising any adverse environmental impacts from dams.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 22 of 27
Appendix E: Typical on and off-stream dam designs
On-stream (gully) dam:
Typical off-stream (hillside) dam in the south west of WA:
Source: Department of Agriculture and Food.
Direction of
waterway flow
Dam wall
X
Scour valve
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 23 of 27
Appendix F: Data needed for development assessments
Where dam facilities near sensitive waters are to be constructed or upgraded, the following
data should be supplied with the development proposal:
1 Site owner/operating tenant’s name and contact details.
2 A plan showing the location of the dam relative to lots and roads. The plan should show
the site topography, remnant vegetation cover, existing and proposed development
areas and onsite water features/ sources.
3 Details of site investigation of soil strata, depth to water table (if applicable) and
available data on the hydrology and quality of local water resources.
4 The present local government land use zoning. Current land use description, any site
contamination history and details of its remediation.
5 Full description and scale of the activities planned for the dam catchment, (site
amenities, crops, animals, and chemical applications), construction and operating
workforce and planned project operational life. Describe intended commissioning date,
operating hours and any expansion options.
6 Details of any proposed vegetation clearing, environmental buffers, site earthworks and
services that may be affected including water supply, sewerage and drainage.
7 Description of all materials/ chemicals to be stored or handled on site in commercial
quantities, including a water use budget.
8 Description of the types, quantities and quality of solid and liquid waste (if applicable)
that will be generated or disposed from the dam.
9 Description of planned material containment, waste management (treatment and
disposal); with an environmental management plan and nutrient and irrigation
management plan (where applicable).
10 Details of any environmental modelling conducted to demonstrate the effects of the
dam on local water resources.
11 Planned operational and equipment maintenance procedures.
12 Details of any contingency measures proposed to minimise the impacts of chemical
spills and safely dispose of contaminated waters that may result from storms, fire, flood
or equipment malfunction or vandalism. Information should include workforce training,
site monitoring and emergency response facilities.
13 Any project contractual agreements or regulatory approvals received.
For major projects, development proponents should engage the services of a qualified and
experienced consultant to professionally prepare their dam development proposal.
This should ensure that government agencies can efficiently assess and respond to the
proposal without delays caused by inadequate or poorly defined information.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 24 of 27
References and further reading
1 Australian Bureau of Meteorology publications available online at <www.bom.gov.au>,
select Climate services.
Statistical data on rainfall and evaporation for various locations in Western Australia.
2 Australian Government - National water quality management strategy papers, available
online at www.environment.gov.au, select water > water programs and policy > water
quality > national water quality management strategy
a Paper 4 Australian and New Zealand Guidelines For Fresh and Marine Water
Quality, 2000
b Paper 7 Australian Guidelines for Water Quality Monitoring and Reporting, 2000
c Paper 9 Rural land uses and water quality- a community resource 2000.
d For print copies, email [email protected], or request a copy from a library
service.
e Managing natural resources in rural Australia for a sustainable future, NRMMC
discussion paper, 1999 available
<http://www.nrm.gov.au/publications/books/pubs/scientific-advice.pdf>.
3 Department of Agriculture and Food (Western Australia) publications available online at
<www.agric.wa.gov.au>:
a search topic ‘dam’
https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/search?search_api_views_fulltext=dam
b Farmnote 5/03 Treatment of leaky dams, 2003
c Farmnote 41/04 Water quality for farm, garden and household use, 2004
d Miscellaneous publication 13/2005 Excavated tanks and hillside dams, 2005
e Resource management technical report 245 Assessing storage reliability of farm
dams, 2003.
4 Department of Water (WA) publications available online at www.water.wa.gov.au,
select publications > find a publication > series browse
a Policies, select statewide policies
Statewide policy 5: Environmental water provisions policy for Western Australia.
b Water facts (WFs)
WF1 Water words
WF4 Living streams
WF5 Taking water from streams and lakes in Western Australia
WF6 Algal blooms
WF13 Flooding in Western Australia
WF14 Floodplain management.
c Water notes (WNs)
WN6 Livestock management: Construction of livestock crossings
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 25 of 27
WN7 Livestock management: Watering points and pumps
WN8 Habitat of rivers and creeks
WN10 Protecting riparian vegetation
WN11 Identifying the riparian zone
WN12 The values of the riparian zone
WN13 The management and replacement of large woody debris in waterways
WN14 Lamprey guides
WN17 Sediment in streams
WN18 Livestock management: fence location and grazing control
WN19 Flood proofing fencing for waterways
WN22 Herbicide use in wetlands
WN25 The effects and management of deciduous on waterways
WN26 Simple fishways
WN29 Long-term management of riparian vegetation.
d Water quality protection notes (WQPNs)
WQPN 2 Aquaculture
WQPN 6 Vegetated buffers to sensitive water resources
WQPN 7 Chemical blending
WQPN 10 Contaminant spills – emergency response
WQPN 25 Land use compatibility in public drinking water source areas
WQPN 26 Liners for containing pollutants using synthetic membranes
WQPN 27 Liners for containing pollutants, using engineered soils
WQPN 36 Protecting public drinking water source areas
WQPN 39 Ponds for stabilising organic matter
WQPN 41 Private drinking water supplies
WQPN 48 Water supplies for rural lots (non-potable use)
WQPN 56 Tanks for above ground chemical storage
WQPN 58 Tanks for temporary above ground chemical storage
WQPN 62 Tanks for underground chemical storage
WQPN 65 Toxic and hazardous substances – storage and use.
e Rural water planning program, search Rural water planning.
5 Engineers Australia publication available for purchase at
<www.engineersmedia.com.au> search EA book.
Australian rainfall and runoff (current edition).
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 26 of 27
a Department of Environment Regulation publications, available
www.der.wa.gov.au:Environmental Protection (South West Agriculture Zone
Wetlands) Policy 1998
b Environmental Protection (Swan Coastal Plain Lakes) Policy 1992
c Revised draft Environmental Protection (Swan Coastal Plain Wetlands) Policy and
Regulations 2004
d Position statement 2: Environmental protection of native vegetation in Western
Australia: Clearing of native vegetation, with particular reference to the agricultural
area, 2000
e Position statement 4: Environmental protection of wetlands 2004
f Position statement 33: Environmental Guidance for Planning and Development.
6 Engineers Australia, current edition, Australian rainfall and runoff,available for purchase
at <www.engineersmedia.com.au> search EA books
8 Scientific journal articles:
a Brainwood, M.A., Burgin, S., and Maheshwari, B., 2004, ‘Temporal variations in
water quality of farm dams: Impacts of land use and water sources’, Agricultural
Water Management, 70, 151-175.
b De Ceballos, B.S.O, Konig, A., and De Oliveira, J.F., 1998, ‘Dam reservoir
eutrophication: A simplified technique for a fast diagnosis of environmental
degradation’, Water Research, 32(11), 3477-3483.
c Doyle, M.W., Stanley, E.H., Orr, C.H., Selle, A.R., Sethi., S.A., and Harbor, J.M.,
2005, ‘Stream ecosystem response to small dam removal: Lessons from the
Heartland’, Geomorphology, 71, 227-244.
d Magilligan, F.J., and Nislow, K.H., 2005, ‘Changes in hydrologic regimes by dams’,
Geomorphology, 71, 61-78.
e Romanov, D., Gabrovsek, F., and Dreybrodt, W., 2003, ‘Dam sites in soluble rocks:
A model of increasing leakage by dissolutional widening of fractures beneath a
dam’, Engineering Geology, 70, 17-35.
Disclaimer
This document has been published by the Department of Water. Any representation,
statement, opinion or advice expressed or implied in this publication is made in good faith
and on the basis that the Department of Water and its employees are not liable for any
damage or loss whatsoever which may occur as a result of action taken or not taken, as
the case may be in respect of any representation, statement, opinion or advice referred to
herein. Professional advice should be obtained before applying the information contained
in this document to particular circumstances.
WQPN 53 Rural dams Page 27 of 27
Feedback
We welcome your thoughts on this note. Feedback will help us prepare future versions. To
comment on this note or seek any clarification, please contact our water source protection
planning branch (details below), citing the note topic and version.
Manager, Water Source Protection Planning
Department of Water
168 St Georges Terrace PO Box K822
Perth Western Australia 6000 Perth Western Australia 6842
Telephone: +61 8 6364 7600 Facsimile: +61 8 6364 7601
Email: [email protected] National relay service: 133 677
To locate our regional offices online, see www.water.wa.gov.au, then select Contact us.
This publication is available online at <www.water.wa.gov.au> select Publications > find a
publication > series browse> water quality protection notes. For those with special needs it
can be made available in alternative formats such as audio, large print, or Braille.
Mar 12-CS; Sep 14-KB; 478