Irrigation Use

Kurri Kurri Tafe Image

Overview of irrigation schemes

Recycled water is currently used at seven irrigation sites around the Hunter, consisting of several golf courses, a trotting track and a TAFE college. Irrigation schemes use approximately 419ML per year, which accounts for 10 per cent of Hunter Water's recycled water use.Hunter Water is working hard to maximise the amount of recycled water that can be used for irrigation. Construction of the Branxton Irrigation Water Scheme is due to commence in the second half of 2010. 

Advantages of Recycled Water Use

  • reduces demand on potable supply system
  • recycled water is largely independent of weather conditions, providing a secure water source even in drought conditions
  • additional nutrients in the water reduce fertilising requirements
  • reduces the amount of treated discharge from wastewater treatment works into creeks and rivers
  • recycled water may cost less than potable water depending on level of treatment required for the end use

Current Irrigation Schemes

Involved Sites

 Usage (ML)
Branxton Golf Course  10
The Oaks Golf and Country Club  0
Waratah Golf Course  85
Kurri Kurri Golf Course 134
East Golf and Leisure  168
Kurri Kurri TAFE  23
Local trotting club  50

 

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    • What is treated, recycled water?

      Answer

      Recycled water comes from wastewater and stormwater that has been highly treated to make it suitable for use in a wide array of applications such as:

      • golf courses and farm irrigation
      • industrial process water
      • toilet flushing and clothes washing

      Recycled water provides a sustainable and reliable source of water while reducing demands on potable supply.

    • Why should we recycle water?

      Answer

      Water is not just important for drinking and washing - insufficient water means we cannot grow adequate food supplies or maintain industry.

      Recycling water provides real flexibility and benefits in our drought prone climate by replacing and thereby conserving potable water.

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