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:

planning@swanrivertrust.wa.gov.au .

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 bookshop@awa.asn.au, 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: waterquality@water.wa.gov.au 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