Sawfish Face Peril as WA Eyes Groundwater Boom

The Martuwarra Fitzroy River catchment in Western Australia, a critical global habitat for four of the world's five sawfish species, faces potential ecological jeopardy. A proposed government plan aims to more than double groundwater extraction, raising alarms among conservationists and local communities.

These sawfish, including the endangered largetooth sawfish, rely on large, groundwater-fed pools to survive the dry season. These pools are essential refuges not only for sawfish but also for a diverse range of other aquatic life and vegetation. Traditional owners voice concerns that the river is already under stress and that insufficient data exists to assess the full impact of increased groundwater allocation, especially considering potential sea-level rise.

Experts emphasize the complexity of the river's water systems, where groundwater interaction is vital for biodiversity and cultural values, particularly during dry periods. While the draft water plan excludes new dams and surface water allocations, stakeholders are urging a more cautious approach to groundwater use, citing past failures in water allocation plans and the need for more extensive monitoring to ensure sustainable practices.