Short answer: Dam levels across rural Australia are declining at an alarming rate, with evaporation and livestock demand rapidly depleting water reserves that took years to accumulate. The speed of decline has caught many landholders off guard, highlighting the need for better dam design and larger storage capacity. Acting early to reduce losses and secure alternative supplies is essential.

Rapid Decline: Dam Levels Drying Out At Alarming Speed

Drought conditions cracking the ground in Australia

The total active storage in rural dams on 18 November 2019 was 29.6%. This was a decrease of 0.7% since last week.

These levels will decrease more rapidly over the December, January and February period.

If no significant rainfall is received, in a worst case scenario, these levels could reach zero by August next year. This would be a catastrophic situation for Australia if it occurs

About Big Ditch

Big Ditch Dam Building Company builds and repairs farm dams across NSW, Queensland, and Victoria. Contact us for a site inspection.

Big Ditch Aquatecture has built and repaired farm dams across NSW, Queensland, and Victoria for over 35 years. Every project is different — soil conditions, catchment size, and land use all shape the final design.

Need help with your own dam? Book a site inspection with Big Ditch — we build and repair dams across NSW, Queensland, and Victoria.