Project summary
iEnvi was engaged to assess whether existing surface water (two dams) and groundwater (one bore) at a Mt French, Queensland farm were suitable for cattle watering and feedstock irrigation. Principal Environmental Scientist Michael Nicholls attended site to collect samples and measure field water quality parameters.
Sampling and laboratory methods
- Two surface water samples collected by grab sampling from dams.
- One groundwater sample collected from a bore using low-flow purging and sampling.
- Field measurements taken on site (standard in-field parameters).
- Laboratory analyses included pH, total dissolved solids, major cations (calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium), chloride, sulphate, alkalinity, and nitrate/nitrite. The report lists “specific absorption rate”; this is likely a reference to sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) — see verification flags below.
- Results were compared against ANZECC 2000 Water Quality Guidelines for irrigation and stock watering.
Key findings
- Laboratory results indicated the surface water and groundwater sampled were suitable for livestock watering.
- Water was generally suitable for feedstock irrigation, although the report identified some restrictions for specific crop types (crop-specific sensitivity to salinity/sodicity may apply).
Practical implications for landowners and developers
- Stock watering: Water quality was acceptable for cattle, reducing the need for alternative water supplies or treatment for stock use.
- Irrigation management: Some crops may be sensitive to salinity or sodicity; where crop productivity is critical, consider crop selection, blending of water sources, or soil amendments to manage sodicity.
- Risk and compliance: Having laboratory data benchmarked to ANZECC guidelines helps satisfy due diligence for property transactions and supports permits or approvals where water quality is relevant.
- Ongoing monitoring: If water is used regularly for irrigation, implement a monitoring program (e.g., annual or seasonal sampling) and retain chain-of-custody and lab reports to track trends and manage risks.
Recommendations
- Retain the full laboratory report and chain-of-custody documentation for future compliance and asset due diligence.
- If irrigation of sensitive crops is planned, discuss targeted testing and irrigation management with iEnvi to refine risk controls.
- Address flagged items (see verification flags) to confirm exact analytical parameters reported.
Contact
For practical advice on sampling, monitoring or irrigation risk management, contact iEnvi on 13000 43684 or visit our contact page.
