LiDAR survey and digital elevation model development for key Northern Territory rivers

Project overview

This project will collect data to develop high accuracy digital elevation models and contours over priority surface water extraction areas in the Northern Territory (NT). This will increase understanding of how water moves through the landscape. It will also improve modelling of surface and groundwater systems.

Goals of the assessment

This data will be used to inform and refine existing allocation models and plans. It will also determine flood risks to key infrastructure assets across the region.

The assessment will collect data using light detection and ranging (LiDAR), a remote sensing method that generates precise, three-dimensional landscape elevation information. In combination with other data, the elevation mapping will build knowledge of how rivers, floodplains and groundwater systems interact.

This information is needed to understand how much water is required for the environment and public benefit, and how much can be allocated to other uses.

Phase 2

The second phase of the project will focus on priority groundwater extraction areas. It will undertake LiDAR surveys and digital elevation model (DEM) development – focus areas include:

• Ti Tree Basin 
• Berry Springs aquifer 
• Koolpinyah aquifer 
• Flora River 
• Katherine River.

These studies will also complement the work undertaken as part of the ‘Recalibration of models in high demand water systems’ project.

Funding for this phase of the project is provided through the Australian Government’s National Water Grid Science Program ($815,000). The Northern Territory Government is also contributing $75,000 through in-kind contributions*.

*In-kind contributions are contributions of goods and services and do not contribute to the total project cost.