An innovative, catchment-wide hydrology project in the state’s north west that focuses on soil as a ‘sponge’ in the landscape is one of only a few of its type in Australia.
A total of 21 farmers are joining forces as a Landcare group and partnering with North West Local Land Services on the $660,000 Upper Mooki Rehydration Project.
The project is only one of a few in Australia that is focused on retaining water in the land, rather than only considering water supplies on the land, such as in dams, creeks and rivers.
“The Upper Mooki catchment is a very broken system and we’re aiming to bring back its hydrological function,” said Craig Carter, one of the farmers and brainchild of the project.
“We are slowing the passage of water through the landscape so that moisture is retained in the soil, leading to a healthier catchment and greater farm productivity,” Mr Carter said.
Craig Carter and Upper Mooki Landcare are undertaking works that will help retain moisture in the soil.
