The Hartfield Park MAR project addresses water needs in Kalamunda through stormwater harvesting and aquifer recharge, overcoming challenges of approvals and filtration, with promising initial trials and minimal ongoing maintenance.
Scale: Precinct
Development Type: Public open space
Local Government: City of Kalamunda
WSUD Solution: Managed aquifer recharge
The Hartfield Park Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) project addresses the growing demands for community sporting fields and recreational spaces in the City of Kalamunda, amidst a drying climate and population growth. Groundwater allocations proved insufficient for irrigation needs, prompting investigation into alternative water sources. The concept involves extracting stormwater from the nearby Woodlupine Main Drain during winter, treating it, and recharging the Leederville Aquifer for summer irrigation. This approach could potentially increase the City’s water allocation by up to 100% and provide a sustainable water source.
Challenges included obtaining approvals, designing bespoke filtration systems, and managing suspended solids in harvested water. The project involves a multidisciplinary team and ongoing maintenance programs to ensure its success. Initial trials showed promising results, with filtration processes effectively treating stormwater for injection into the aquifer. The MAR system requires minimal ongoing involvement and is expected to produce a water surplus for potential trading or irrigation of other parklands. Overall, the project demonstrates innovative water management strategies to meet community needs while addressing environmental challenges.
Our focus areas
Supporting community wellbeing and healthy environments within resilient and sustainable places throughout Western Australia.
