Frequently Asked Questions: About geology and aquifers
questions about the geology, the rocks, the hydrogeological setting, the aquifer materials and their properties, soils and landscapes.
- Is there one continuous aquifer across the valley?
No, the main aquifer is within the alluvium which has formed in old valleys in the sandstone. However, groundwater can be found at places deeper in the sandstone, if you keep drilling. - Is all the alluvium connected?
Yes to some degree, but it may not be always direct connection. The sub-catchments are mostly well connected to the main valley floor. More testing needs to be done to confirm which upstream areas are connected to which downstream areas. - Has the aquifer of the Lockyer Valley been "mined"?
The alluvium is best seen as a series of connected, or semi-connected, channels. The amount of extraction, and the amount of recharge to different parts vary, but yes, there are parts currently being mined. Very low water levels occur in the eastern alluvial areas.