Participatory Modelling of the Howard East Aquifer

Our research team is building a 3D model of the Howard East Aquifer

The Howard East borefield relies on groundwater supplies to satisfy rural and urban residential, horticultural and commercial needs. However, despite recent and significant growth, there is no regional water plan currently in place to ensure that this resource is managed sustainably for future generations.

To assist future water planning, Tropical Rivers and Coastal Knowledge (TRaCK), Griffith University, and Queensland University of Technology (QUT) researchers are developing a 3D model of the Howard East Aquifer.

The model will rely on the best available data to help people understand ground water systems and answer the following questions:

• How does the Howard East Aquifer work?
• What effect does the current rate of pumping have on local ground water levels?
• Is the aquifer taking longer to recharge during the wet season?
• Can you see the effects of pumping on the surface water bodies (e.g. Howard Springs, Girraween and McMinns Lagoon)?
• Are older shallower bores likely to run dry in the future?

The model will be able to be provide a detailed cross section of the Howard East Aquifer at specific points of interest in the modelled area. By selecting these areas, users will be able to see the topography, soil type, surface and natural drainage features of the system, as well as watch short animations that illustrate the changes in aquifer levels over time and season.

News update! The model is now 90% completed! 

The project team is pleased to report that the groundwater visualisation model will be finalised in early September. The Queensland project team visited Darwin last week (13/14th August) to host a series of meetings to gain feedback on the work done so far from agency staff, modellers, community members and stakeholders from the Howard area. We extend a warm thank you to all of those involved. 

More information about the model and the meetings can be downloaded in the July-August edition of the project newsletter (click here) and the Project News pages (click here). 

Community meeting to present final model planned for Wednesday, September 9th at Girraween Primary School - 6:30 - 8:30 pm 

Come and see your groundwater bore and get an idea of the aquifer below your property.

The model will be demonstrated to the public in an open meeting held in the Assembly area of Girraween Primary School on Wednesday September 9th 2009 from 6:30 pm onwards. This is an opportunity for you to observe the groundwater bores and water levels in the Howard East Aquifer in one 3D view.

The public can apply for copies of the model on disc for installation in their home computer. Dr Malcolm Cox, Amy Hawke, Sharna Nolan, Gerry Wood and other local invite experts will be available to answer questions relating to the Howard aquifer. Springs

Tea and coffee provided. 

A media release advertising this meeting can be downloaded here.

 Other ways to stay involved

1. Read more about the project happenings and planned activities by clicking here!
2. We have prepared information posters, newsletters, media releases and project reports that you can download and print locally for display in your community noticeboard. 
3. Join our mailing list and receive project newsletters
4. Tell us about your bore experience and stories on our special blog page
5. Attend our community meeting and workshop on the 9th of September, at Girraween Primary School, from 6:30pm onwards
6. Get in touch with local project staff directly by email and speak to the modellers and researchers  (Sharna Nolan: 08 8944 8420, email: sharna.nolan@csiro.au)