Agreement strengthens water research partnership

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Monday, 26 October 2009

A milestone in collaborative water research and education will be reached today as SA Water and the University of Adelaide sign a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen the work of both organisations.

SA Water Chief Executive Anne Howe says SA Water has a strong working relationship with the University of Adelaide and the signing of the MoU will enhance this relationship by encouraging collaborative research and knowledge sharing between some of our nation's leading water quality experts.

SA Water and the University of Adelaide are currently working on 12 projects that have attracted almost $2 million in funding, including studies on the Lower Murray Lakes, prevention and treatment of blue-green algae blooms and strategies for reducing wastewater production.

"Over many years we have worked on a number of successful research projects with the University of Adelaide in areas such as algae, wastewater and demand management," Ms Howe says.

"Now we are taking this a step further with some key areas of water research where we share interest with the University including water resources planning and management, freshwater ecology, water planning and engineering and River Murray water quality.

"Under this agreement some of the best minds at SA Water will work together with the University to help manage our State's water supplies. It will also maximise the chance of receiving funding to improve research capabilities.

"Through agreements such as this we're ensuring SA Water is well placed to meet the increasing number of challenges faced by water utilities across the country and the world, many of which have been brought about as a result of the drought.

"The collaborative work we do will also assist SA Water in improving early links with qualified water professionals in our State with the potential that some of the students studying in the water field may look to SA Water as a future employer."

University of Adelaide Vice-Chancellor and President Professor James McWha says water holds the key to South Australia's future.

"This partnership with SA Water will enable research outcomes to ensure we are equipped to meet the challenges of climate change and water quality. Our collaborative water projects are already addressing the national and state priorities and we look forward to working even more closely with SA Water for the benefit of our community."

 

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