Upland Peatlands of Eastern Australia as Important Water Storage Reservoirs

Upland peatlands within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area serve as critical water storage reservoirs, holding up to 60,600 ± 33,500 megaliters (ML) of water across the region. A detailed study of Lake Baraba in Thirlmere Lakes National Park revealed a local storage capacity of 150 ± 17.3 ML, underscoring their significance even during dry periods. The research quantified these systems' water-holding potential using peat depth measurements and water content calculations, providing empirical evidence for their role in maintaining water supply resilience. These findings highlight the urgent need to conserve peatlands amid climate change and anthropogenic threats, given their vital function in Sydney's water catchment.

Cowley, K. L., Fryirs, K. A., Cohen, T., Marx, S., Forbes, M., & Krogh, M. (2020). Upland Peatlands of Eastern Australia as Important Water Storage Reservoirs. University of Wollongong. https://doi.org/10.71747/UOW-R3GK326M.31884685