Channel Seepage Measurement and Control in Australia

It is estimated that around 4% of the total water supplied by earthen channels for rural use in Australia is lost due to channel seepage. Seepage can occur laterally through channel banks and is often visible at the surface, resulting in soil waterlogging and salinisation. Seepage also occurs by deep percolation through the base of the channels and does not necessarily have a surface expression. Techniques to identify the locations and to measure the rate of seepage include pondage tests, geophysical (Electromagnetic (EM)) surveys and groundwater assessment. Correlations between pondage tests and EM surveys show promising results as a rapid and cost effective tool to assist in identification of leaking sections of earthen channels and planning of channel remediation programs.