WA Water Minister speaks of building climate resistant waterways during record dry spell for South West

The State Government plans to create climate resistant rivers across the South West as many in the region are struggling to stay flowing with record low rainfall and rising temperatures blighting the region.

The $1.5 million program — Creating Climate Resilient Rivers — is funded by the State Government and being led by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation.

Speaking in Harvey, Water Minister Simone McGurk said the aim was to address the impacts of climate change on waterways across the South West.

She said since the 1970s the region has had a continuous decline in rainfall and a reduction in stream flows by about 80 per cent.

“In the South West, we are seeing record low rainfall, in fact this is the driest season that’s been on record,” Ms McGurk said.

“People often talk about a drought, but that implies we are going to come out of this.

“I think with everything we do know about climate change, this is something that we have to adapt to.”

Ms McGurk said understanding the impact of climate change was necessary in order to live with the changes that are expected to impact agriculture, horticulture and the environment.

“That is what this particular program is about,” she said.

“There’s a big focus to make sure we have improved systems so the next generation of locals can continue to see the native fish species existing along this area.”

The record-breaking dry spell has also had a major impact on many farmers throughout the region.

Ms McGurk said the Government was working hard to make sure farmers understood what supports were available.

“As an example, the Minister for Regional Development (Don Punch) and I outlined a $10 million support program for the horticultural industry in Manjimup last Friday,” she said.

“We are also listening to the farming community to understand what else we need to do as a government to better support farmers.”