By David Kavanagh | posted on February 6, 2020
A MULTIMILLION-dollar pipeline connecting Denmark to Albany’s water supply should be implemented alongside increased wastewater recycling, a prominent conservationist has said.
Little Grove environmentalist Tony Harrison said the State Government’s proposal to build a $32m water pipeline between the towns was a “short-term” solution to an issue requiring a “smarter” approach.
The plan as it stands would see Denmark connected to the Lower Great Southern Towns Water Supply Scheme (LGSTWSS), which currently feeds into Albany and Mount Barker, via Chorkerup Tank.
It was first announced last September after Quickup Dam, Denmark’s primary water source, looked to receive its lowest stream flow ever.
“The pipeline is a good idea but it’s a short-term thing that only plans five or 10 years ahead,” Mr Harrison told the Weekender.
“With climate change, less rainfall coming down, and growing populations, we can’t go on just drawing from the underground water.
“Total recycling of all our grey water would reduce the demand from the aquifers. We can’t just keep sucking on it.”
Currently Albany and Mount Barker’s grey water is treated at separate wastewater treatment plants and used to irrigate tree plantations and vineyards.
Mr Harrison helped champion the growing of blue gums in Albany by utilising this recycled water several decades ago, but has since said it is no longer an acceptable practice.
“That was 30 years ago. We’ve got to become a lot smarter with what we’re doing with our water now,” he said.
“I want Water Corporation to have further public consultation in Denmark, Mount Barker and Albany and let the people discuss it because this concerns everyone.”
According to Water Corporation, its current yearly allocation of 5.35 billion litres of water from the Albany Groundwater Area would be enough to supply Albany, Mount Barker and Denmark when it is connected to LGSTWSS.
Representatives from the organisation visited Denmark alongside Water Minister Dave Kelly, Member for Warren-Blackwood Terry Redman and Member for South West Region Sally Talbot last Tuesday to discuss the proposal with more than 200 residents.
Mr Redman said he supported the idea of a pipeline to ensure access to a “secure and reliable” supply of water, but called out the Government for failing “to actively consult” the Denmark community prior to the September announcement.
“It is now up to the Minister for Water to ensure his agencies properly engage with affected landowners and keep the Denmark community abreast of developments,” he said.
Construction on the pipeline is expected to begin in June.
Water Corporation will be holding four walk-in information sessions about the project at Denmark Public Library on February 12, 16, 21 and 25.
The community can also provide feedback by visiting yoursay.watercorporation.com.au/ waterwisedenmark
