Irrigating with reclaimed water – a scoping study to investigate feasibility for the wine industry

Abstract

With increasing interest in saving water and using new sources, this scoping study investigated the feasibility of irrigating with recycled water in viticulture, identifying knowledge of importance and matters requiring further attention.

Summary

Available information from research and practice in Australia and overseas was collated and the use of recycled water in the Australian wine industry was investigated and described. Financial as well as agronomic and environmental aspects were covered.

It was found that while human health issues were generally well understood, with risks having been extensively addressed in relation to food production using recycled water, limited specific guidance for viticulture existed. It was found, however, that the industry had a good understanding of nitrogen and phosphorus in recycled water and that current research into salinity would provide valuable information. The knowledge gap analysis also drew attention to sodium and chlorine, heavy metals, plant pathogens and other topics that could require further attention with expanding use of recycled water. An important finding was that public support for recycling was strong and that reclaimed water could be viable for vineyard irrigation, leading to the recommendation that opportunities for use of recycled water should be further investigated, identifying specific vineyard areas and potential sources.

A key outcome for regional viticultural bodies and water planners arising from this scoping study has been a comprehensive list of references on the topic plus inclusion of useful websites. Another Wine Australia report which deals in part with irrigation using recycled water is SAR 03/04.