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The coast and estuarine environment are important environmental assets in the Study Area. These cover
the Barker Inlet, Port River Estuary, the Torrens Estuary and aquatic reserves. Major threats arise from
coastal acid sulphate soils, seagrass decline, thermal discharges, altered groundwater discharge, and
human activities, which may be exacerbated by climate change.
Groundwater resources are under increasing demands and reduced recharge. Climate change is likely to
add further pressure upon these resources.
Stormwater and Flood Management
There are four catchments within the Study Area – Port Adelaide, Dry Creek, Torrens River and
Patawalonga. These catchments comprise urbanised and rural settings with engineered and natural
formats.
Several stormwater/flood items are of significance to the Study Area, including the Barker Inlet for
ecological purposes, Breakout Creek Weir for storm surge protection, aquifer recharge schemes, gauging
stations, and storm water reuse projects adjacent the golf courses.
Potential impacts from climate change upon these assets include stormwater and/or seawater inundation,
reduced streamflows, lower water levels, and need for reduction in diversions.
Open Space and Recreation
The Study Area contains a range of recreational and open space assets, including some of metropolitan
significance. Beaches, as well as school sites, provide additional open space and recreational
opportunities in some parts of the Study Area, while other parts of the region have existing open space
shortfalls.
Increased residential densities will exacerbate the challenges already facing the Study Area regarding the
provision of open space. Population growth, along with trends in the use of open space and recreational
facilities, are shifting the way these assets are and will be used by the community. The existing quantity
of open space is likely to become increasingly insufficient to meet future requirements.
Climate change is likely to impact on the provision and maintenance of open space and recreational
assets through weather and climate induced damage, loss of space and functionality, changed sporting
regimes, changes in biodiversity features, and social health impacts. There is likely to be greater costs to
maintain and modify open space and recreational facilities to meet future demands.
The utilisation of open space and recreational assets is likely to change as a result of climate change,
prompting the need to review the suitability of these assets in order that they meet future requirements.
Recommendations
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Analyse in closer detail how the use of open space and recreational facilities may change as a result
of a generally warmer and dryer climate.
