Marcus Butler
4 August 2015: How happy are Canberrans with the quality and useability of local rivers and lakes?
The University of Canberra’s Better Water Survey aims to understand how we use and value our waterways for drinking water, recreation and as a key part of the environment, with local residents encouraged to have their say.
University of Canberra senior research fellow Jacki Schirmer, who is leading the survey which covers the ACT and surrounding NSW, said they are already seeing some great results with more than 3,500 people completing the survey since it was launched two weeks ago.
“People are being open and frank about the waterways around their communities and which ones they use for recreation,” Dr Schirmer said.
“We are already getting a good understanding of how people use, value and experience the region’s waterways, and where they have concerns about water quality.
“So far, we’ve found that many Canberrans are concerned about local waterways, but that many are unsure about the things that should and shouldn’t go down their drains, such as wet-wipes,” she said.
“Canberra water flows downstream to other communities and we owe it to everyone further downstream to pass on high-quality, clean water,” Dr Schirmer said.
The survey is being conducted by the University of Canberra and is supported by the ACT Government and several local councils in New South Wales.
The results will be used to help improve waterway management and water quality in the region and is part of a larger program to improve water quality in the Murray–Darling Basin.
The survey can be completed online at www.betterwater.net.au and closes on 14 August, participants are able to enter into a draw to win a share of $5000 in prizes.
