Now is a good time to apply for your ‘water affecting activity’ permit

Are you looking to build, enlarge or deepen a dam, excavate a spring or soak, construct or repair a drainage channel or water crossing?

These are just some examples of the range of water affecting activities that require a permit.

A permit is necessary to ensure proposed activities do not have adverse impacts on the health and condition of water resources, a catchment’s hydrology, other water users or the ecosystems that depend on water resources.

Natural Resources Eyre Peninsula Water Resources Assessment Officer, David Cunningham said many landholders will undertake water affecting activities over the summer months, after harvest and prior to next year’s seeding.

“Permits are a catchment management tool to help make good decisions that ensure the construction of catchment infrastructure is appropriate, matches local hydrology and considers issues such salinity, flooding and the sharing of water,” Mr Cunningham said.

"Pre-application site visits can be arranged and it is important that landholders apply for their permit at least two months before they intend to undertake the activity.

"Permits are usually valid for one year from the date of issue."

Some other examples of water affecting activities that require permits include removing vegetation and soil from a watercourse, lake or wetland, and drilling a well.

Undertaking a water affecting activity without a permit or breach of the permit conditions is an offence under the Natural Resources Management Act 2004.

Eyre Peninsula Natural Resources Management Board Presiding Member, Diana Laube said in the last four years while the Natural Resources Management Plan has been in operation, 105 permits have been assessed and granted.

"This is about ensuring that the best methods and techniques are used to protect our water catchments and other users," Ms Laube said.

"The Board would like to recognise the people and organisations who have sought permits and continue to work with the Board to better manage the region’s water resources."

If you are unsure whether your proposed works require a permit, call David Cunningham at the Natural Resources Centre on 8688 3111 for advice and assistance.

Permit applications can be made at Level 1 / 86 Tasman Terrace, Port Lincoln, or by phoning 8688 3111 or email: david.cunningham2@sa.gov.au