Protecting Biodiversity – Water Recycling Project

Abundance water recycling project gets off the ground

It’s National Biodiversity Month this September to promote the importance of protecting, conserving and improving biodiversity in Australia and across the world.

On the Mid North Coast we’re experiencing the effects of one of the longest droughts in New South Wales. September saw Port Macquarie Hastings Council initiate Level 2 ‘high’ water restrictions. The region hasn’t had enough rain in the upper catchments for the last twelve months. 

Abundance Garden Centre is excited to get our Water Recycling Project off the ground. The Water Recycling we have in place aims to reduce risk and improve production in times of drought. 

 

What does the water irrigation and recycling system do?

Abundance Gardens

● Retains all water run from our wholesale and retail nursery site, part of the 21 hectare property at Sancrox.

● Increases water efficiency for our production nursery

● Allows all water to run through biological filters –composing of extensive gravel beds which provide an environment for bacteria, slows the water movement and provides physical support for water plants.

● Water plants extract excess nutrients and chemicals, ensuring cleaner water without the need for chlorine, and thereby maintaining the high quality plants Abundance is known for.

Every precious drop of water will be recycled

“Every precious drop we use to irrigate our wholesale nursery will be recycled. This is especially important with the drought. It’s a project which has been in the pipeline for a while now and we’re excited to have finally been able to implement it this month,” said John Van Der Ley, Abundance Chief Horticulturist.

“As a production nursery selling plants throughout Australia we use 100,000 litres of water a day. It’s important for us to be environmentally friendly and eco-conscious to protect biodiversity and conserve water. We have four dams on the property which support our production business. Two of these are mainly for irrigation,” added John. 

The impact of the drought is clear in coastal regions and inland, this presents challenges for the whole community and we should all be mindful of water use.

 

Responsible water management following NGIA Best Practice Guidelines

“With increasing climate variability as well increasing water and energy costs, it’s more important than ever before for us to achieve reductions in water use. 

We’re working hard towards responsible water management following Nursery and Garden Industry Australia (NGIA) Best Practice Guidelines,” said John.

“Efficient water use within the nursery industry is something we’re proud to deliver. 

Our new system allows us to optimise production while reducing water use, in a cost effective way. It’s a win for everyone.”

“Water plants extract excess nutrients and chemicals, ensuring cleaner water without the need for chlorine, and thereby maintaining the high quality plants Abundance is known for.”