Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) has been appointed by the National Water Commission to develop the next phase of the atlas groundwater-dependent ecosystems project.

The project aims to create a record of the location and characteristics of groundwater-dependent ecosystems across Australia.

When completed, the atlas will be a web-based tool that displays ecological and hydrogeological information that will be used to help make planning decisions and protect environmental assets.

SKM will work with the CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology to deliver the project.

The database will incorporate all existing data and knowledge of groundwater-dependent ecosystems from state and territory jurisdictions and analyse remote sensing data to add new datasets.

SKM’s project manager Jude Teakle said the project required a broad range of specialist technical skills and a national perspective of Australia’s landscapes.

“Our project team and partners have the track record and experience to deliver this unique and challenging project." he said.

“We have the knowledge of Australia-wide groundwater-dependent ecosystem types, and our partnership with CSIRO will provide the safe pair of hands to deliver the GDE Atlas that will prove to be highly sought after and valuable to stakeholders.”

The project is expected to be completed by May 2012.