Understanding issues of irrigating urban playing fields with alternative water sources through systems approach

![CDATA[Currently Australia's landscape is struggling to cope with 7 years of drought. In New South Wales Warragamba Dam is Sydney's primary potable water source and at its lowest level in June 2007 it was at 36% capacity. This had prompted the NSW government to take urgent action, imposing Level 3 water restrictions to resident, non-essential businesses and industry. As a result urban playing fields within Sydney were inadequately maintained and watered irregularly. In response local councils are currently investigating alternative water sources (Treated Effluent, Stormwater and Groundwater). A sustainable water resource system needs to take into account social and environmental factors and it can be assessed by taking a systems view to identify potential social and environmental issues. In undertaking a systems analysis two issues emerged that required immediate attention. These were social acceptance (will local communities accept and support alternative water sources) and environmental health (are there specific concerns towards the environment that need to be addressed). These were further investigated by community survey and water quality analysis. The analysis of the proposed alternative water resource development indicates positive outcomes in the preservation of potable supplies and restoration of a functioning hydrological system in the area. Preliminary analysis indicates strong community support for alternative sources to be used to maintain community sporting facilities. As well, there is potential to maintain and even improve environmental integrity.]]