This project aims to evaluate the reliance of riparian vegetation on groundwater in the Lower Balonne region. It will do so through the analysis of stratigraphy/hydrogeology in riparian vegetation communities and the recharge of groundwater through flooding events. Field investigations will help to define the hydrological regimes of shallow aquifers and unsaturated zones within the floodplain. This information will determine the importance of river flooding in providing water requirements to vegetation in the region.

Research undertaken by the student will involve the interpretation of geophysical and core data from riparian transects to develop hydrogeological models of the riparian zone. These transects are being described as part of a project within the MDB EWKR (Environmental Watering, Knowledge and Research) Program. Some sites will also be used within an MDBA long-term vegetation condition monitoring project. Collection of field data (geophysics, topography, soil coring) will occur in conjunction with the DNRM team. In some cases (if appropriate conditions arise) a transect will be imaged before and after a flood event). Coring and geophysical data will be collated to create an interpreted hydrogeology, from which surface water/groundwater interactions will be assessed through simple groundwater modelling.

This project further builds on knowledge developed in project DNRM1401 and other CRDC and non-CRDC funded riparian vegetation projects by Griffith University and DNRM/DSITI/MDB EWKR . It does so by both value-adding to existing sites and creating new benchmark sites for other researchers. The outcomes of the project will support CRDCs interests in responsible landscape management through better understanding of riparian zones and how they are impacted by flows.