Charles Darwin University researchers are launching a groundbreaking project to involve over 500 citizen scientists in the Northern Territory and Western Australia to collect water samples from their bores. This effort, led by CDU freshwater ecologist Professor Jenny Davis, aims to increase water security by establishing a robust baseline of groundwater quality across the region.
In the remote landscapes of northern Australia, where the vast outback meets the horizon, an essential resource lies hidden beneath the earth—groundwater. This precious resource, often out of sight and out of mind, provides a lifeline for communities, agriculture, and industries in otherwise arid environments. Yet, its future is increasingly uncertain, especially in regions where fracking looms on the horizon. This makes the call to action from Charles Darwin University (CDU) researchers all the more critical.
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The Vital Importance of Baseline Studies in Groundwater Monitoring Amidst Fracking Threats
Baseline studies are not just a scientific exercise; they are vital for protecting communities against the potential impacts of fracking and other industrial activities. Even if your property doesn’t currently have gas wells, the groundwater beneath your land could be affected by activities on a neighboring property. Establishing a baseline now is crucial for anyone who might face a legal battle over water contamination in the future.
The importance of these baseline studies cannot be overstated. As Professor Davis emphasizes, “Groundwater is so important, it supplies people and communities with drinking water, it is also important from an industry point of view with the cattle, agriculture, and horticulture industries also requiring this water source.”
Understanding the current state of groundwater quality is the first step in protecting it. Without baseline data, it becomes nearly impossible to prove that contamination has occurred or to hold responsible parties accountable.
The Citizen Science Project: How It Works
The CDU project provides free sampling kits to community members who own bores. These kits include three vials for water samples, instructions for filtering water for environmental DNA (eDNA), and a pH testing kit. The pH test, which delivers immediate results, helps bore owners assess the drinkability of their water—an essential aspect of ensuring community health.
“We conducted a pilot project to ensure the methods of collection are suitable and accurate results will be achieved with the kits,” says Professor Davis. “We have assembled the kits based on these results, and we feel they will produce valuable results; however, we can make further refinements as we receive feedback.”
Once the samples are returned to CDU, they undergo extensive analysis. The salinity of the water is measured, and the eDNA profile is determined to identify the species present in the water. Additionally, a sample is frozen for future comparisons, allowing bore owners to track changes in water quality over time.
The Broader Implications: Protecting Northern Australia’s Water
Beyond individual bore owners, the project has broader implications for northern Australia’s water security. As Dr. Erica Garcia, CDU’s Senior Research Fellow of aquatic ecology, notes, the eDNA profiling will provide valuable insights into the aquatic life present in groundwater and the connectivity of groundwater across regions. This information is crucial for understanding the ecological health of these water systems and for making informed decisions about water management.
CDU hydrogeologist Dr. Dylan Irvine adds that the results will be invaluable for the future. “Having results from these samples can help us to better understand northern Australia’s groundwater resources to assist groundwater management into the future,” he explains.
A Call to Action: Join the Effort
For those living in the region, the opportunity to participate in this vital project is both a civic duty and a chance to safeguard their future. Whether you are a farmer relying on groundwater for crops, a community member concerned about water quality, or a property owner potentially affected by nearby fracking activities, establishing a baseline of your groundwater quality now is essential.
The project is supported by funding from the Ian Potter Foundation, the Northern Hub, and Inspired NT. To participate, you can contact Professor Jenny Davis at CDU on jenny.davis@cdu.edu.au to request a free sampling kit. The kits include a return postage bag, ensuring there is no cost to participate.
The project includes an App which can be downloaded from the App Store and Google Play and the Groundwater North Website which will show results as they become available.
The project team will also be present at CDU’s Casuarina Campus Open Day on August 17, where they will answer questions and demonstrate how the sampling kits work.
In the face of an uncertain future, establishing a solid foundation of knowledge about our groundwater is not just important—it is imperative. By participating in this project, you are contributing to a collective effort to protect one of our most vital resources, ensuring that it remains safe and available for generations to come.
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