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Great Artesian Basin 'a vital resource'

Posted December 3, 2008 09:12:00
Updated December 4, 2008 07:55:00

Graziers and scientists say it is crucial there is more work done to avoid a water crisis in the Great Artesian Basin.

The massive inland water resource underlies 22 per cent of the continent and is the only source of water for inland mining, tourism and grazing in four states.

Angus Emmott from the Basin's coordinating committee says there is no doubt there will be more demand on the Basin in the future, so it is vital the resource is well managed.

"It covers an area of about 1.7 million square kilometres - that's about 70 per cent of Queensland to start with," he said.

"It also picks up New South Wales, South Australia and the Northern Territory, so it's an incredibly important resource.

"With mining, there are some issues with the use of water and I think that's an area we can improve on."

Mr Emmott says there is work underway with state and territory governments to ensure the resource is not wasted or over-used.

"With climate change, we will be more reliant on the Great Artesian Basin, so we're morally obliged to make the best use of that water - the highest value we can, so we don't waste it - we actually carefully and strategically manage it now and for the long-term," he said.

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