Inland Waters
Page 140
Inland Waters
Surface Water
Introduction
‘Inland and surface water’ includes rivers and streams, which are flowing water
habitats that may be dry in the summer periods, and freshwater wetlands which
can be swamps and marshes (areas of standing water) found along rivers, or
constructed in the form of stormwater retention areas.
Rivers, streams and wetlands support unique ecosystems. These water bodies
also provide a source of water for agricultural, domestic and industrial purposes
and are the receiving water bodies for urban stormwater and some wastewater
from these activities. The impact of increasing human settlement has had
detrimental effects on the health of aquatic plants and animals, and has resulted
in a significant decline in water quality. In polluted water bodies recreational
activities can also be restricted and aesthetic quality diminished.
Within the City of Port Adelaide Enfield pollution is a continuing threat due to a
range of impacts including the disposal of urban stormwater and treated
wastewater into waterways, the impact of significant industrial activity, metals
and oils from road surfaces, faecal contamination from animals (particularly
from dogs in streets and open space areas), and the seepage of septic tank
systems.
Pollution from heavy metals, high nutrient and salinity levels, high loads of
sediment from urban catchments, and toxic blue green algae and litter continue
to destroy habitats and to reduce species diversity in receiving water bodies.
Wetlands and rivers provide crucial habitats for birds and animals, particularly
during times of drought, and provide important habitat within the Council for
nationally and internationally protected migratory birds. Declining wetland health
also has a subsequent impact on the amount of suitable quality water that can
be recharged into underground aquifers.
The function and condition of wetland and river systems are likely to be affected
by accelerated climate change via temperature rises, changes in rainfall events,
and sea level rise – and will be a focus of climate change adaptation planning in
the region.
The Adelaide and Mt. Lofty Ranges Natural Resources Management Board is
the over-arching agency that monitors and reports on surface and inland
waters. Other State agencies who play a role include the Environment
Protection Authority, and the Department for Environment, Water and Natural
Resources.
Council is progressively preparing integrated
Stormwater Management Plans
for all its stormwater catchments. Each Plan will outline the water harvesting
and distribution opportunities in each catchment, the management of any
