Water concerns
A number of people have commented on the serious decline in the levels of ponds in the North and South Paras in recent weeks. Waterholes, which have not been dry in the memory of people who have lived in the area for decades, are being reported as dry. These very low water levels have also highlighted the absolute importance of the springs which are still feeding water into a few areas along the rivers.
These springs depend on rain infiltrating into groundwater reserves during wetter months and then moving through the subsoil to lower areas and discharging into creeks. The hydrology of water movement in the subsoil caused by stony layers and pressure buildup in the hills east of Gawler is little understood but it is clear that water from springs has been reduced over the last 150 years.
Causes include clearance of native vegetation and cultivation resulting in lower infiltration and higher runoff in wetter months. The remaining waterholes provide vital refuges for fish and many species of small animals. It is vital that these refuges are protected. With climate change also threatening to reduce groundwater through lower average rainfall and more intense periods of rain we need to be looking at all the ways of protecting natural groundwater systems. The effect that urban development in Gawler East could have on groundwater systems needs to be fully researched.
History Week Author, Dr Pauline Payne, who has recently published The Diplomatic Gardener – Richard Schomburgk Explorer and Gardener, will speak and sell her book on Scmomburgk at the Gawler launch of History Week – Thurs 15 May at Gawler Sport and Recreation Centre at 6 pm. GEHA has History Week tours of the history and native vegetation of Willaston Cemetery Sun 18 May 10 -12. Sun 25 May 2–4. Bookings to Adrian/Sue 8522 4363.
Also, Sunday 13th April at 2pm - Opening of the Gawler Youth Exhibition at the Community Gallery Rail Station.
