South Australian Government encourages more recreation within reservoirs

The South Australian Government is encouraging not-for-profit organisations across the state to apply for funding to bring their ideas for the state’s open-access reservoir reserves to life.

SA Water’s Reservoirs Partnership Program provides funding of up to $10,000 to back community-led projects that inspire environmental conservation, active lifestyle and community learning.

The 2025-26 program offers not-for-profits an opportunity to connect their communities with South Australia’s environment and water resources, while encouraging outdoor accessibility, recreation and education.

Recipients supported in the 2024-25 round of grants include:

• Nature Conservation Society of South Australia – Bushland condition monitoring as part of the long-term Mount Lofty Ranges Woodland Bird Monitoring Program which undertakes ecological surveys across 165 sites including 14 SA Water reservoir reserves.

• Nature Play SA – 4 diversity and inclusion nature-based-experiences at Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve for children and young people in care and individuals with disabilities and diverse backgrounds, featuring cultural insights led by Kaurna leaders.

• TAFE SA – development of environmental resilience through the Outdoor Learning program which gives nature-based learning experiences at South Para and Warren reservoir reserves.

• Trail Running SA – twilight series trail running events held at Happy Valley Reservoir Reserve.

• Walking SA – ‘Walk on Water’ public walking event to be held at Mount Bold Reservoir Reserve on 28 September 2025.

The launch of the grants comes as the SA Government announced a comprehensive range of supports for recreational fishers with a range of measures to support fishing activity during the unprecedented algal bloom.

These supports include establishing a fish stocking program in freshwater bodies such as reservoirs and lakes and opening up more reservoirs to recreational fishing where consistent with public health advice.

The State Government will continue to explore more opportunities to encourage more recreation within reservoirs, while maintaining water security as the primary utility of these sites.

Applications are open until 21st September, with grants of up to $10,000 available per project.

To apply or to check the eligibility criteria, visit sawater.com.au

Image. Canoeing on Myponga Reservoir. Credit: SA Dept Env and Water