2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Volume 2 – Appendices

Report to the Minister for Water

2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Volume 2 – Appendices

Report to the Minister for Water

© 2010 State of NSW and Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW. The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water and State of NSW are pleased to allow this material to be reproduced for educational or non-commercial purposes in whole or in part, provided the meaning is unchanged and its source, publisher and authorship are acknowledged. Specific permission is required for the reproduction of photographs and images.

Published by: Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW 59 Goulburn Street, Sydney PO Box A290 Sydney South 1232 Ph: (02) 9995 5000 (switchboard) Ph: 131 555 (environment information and publications requests) Ph: 1300 361 967 (national parks, climate change and energy efficiency information and publications requests) Fax: (02) 9995 5999 TTY: (02) 9211 4723 Email: [email protected] Website: www.environment.nsw.gov.au

Report pollution and environmental incidents Environment Line: 131 555 (NSW only) or [email protected] See also www.environment.nsw.gov.au/pollution

Cover photos:  Russell Cox Top: Cordeaux River near Pheasants Nest Weir Bottom row from left: 1. Fitzroy Falls 2. Gully erosion Wollondilly River sub-catchment 3. Tallowa Dam 4. Agriculture Upper Nepean River sub-catchment

ISBN 978 1 74293 027 5 DECCW 2010/974 November 2010

Printed on recycled paper Contents

Volume 1: Main report Summary Recommendations Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 2 Audit Methodology Chapter 3 Land Use and Human Settlements Chapter 4 Biodiversity and Habitats Chapter 5 Water Availability Chapter 6 Water Quality Chapter 7 Audit Recomendations

Volume 2: Appendices Appendix A: Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders ...... 1 Appendix B: List of parties that responded to the audit ...... 7 Appendix C: Sub-catchment summaries ...... 9 Upper Coxs River...... 10 Mid Coxs River sub-catchment...... 21 Lower Coxs River...... 32 Grose River ...... 40 Kowmung River ...... 46 Lake Burragorang ...... 53 Werriberri Creek ...... 60 Little River...... 68 Nattai River...... 75 Upper Nepean River ...... 83 Upper Wollondilly River...... 96 Wollondilly River ...... 104 Mulwaree River...... 115 Wingecarribee River...... 122 Woronora River Sub-catchment (Georges River Catchment)...... 132 Shoalhaven Catchment...... 141 Kangaroo River...... 142 Nerrimunga River...... 152 Bungonia Creek ...... 159 Boro Creek ...... 167 Mid Shoalhaven River...... 174 Endrick River ...... 181 Reedy Creek...... 187

Mongarlowe River...... 194 Braidwood...... 201 Back and Round Mountain Creeks...... 208 Jerrabattgulla Creek...... 214 Upper Shoalhaven River ...... 220 References...... 226 Appendix D: Major projects in the Catchment ...... 230 Appendix E: Water sharing plan management zones...... 238 Appendix F: Flow exceedance curves ...... 243 Flow exceedance curves (Cumulative Distribution Function) Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment ...... 243 Flow Exceedance Curves (Cumulative Distribution Function) Woronora Catchment...... 253 Flow Exceedance Curves (Cumulative Distribution Function) Shoalhaven Catchment...... 255 Appendix G: River Water Quality...... 260 Dam and Reservoir Water Quality ...... 292

Appendix A: Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders

Sydney Catchment Authority The roles and responsibilities of the Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) are specified by the Sydney Water Catchment Management Act 1998. Section 13 of this Act identifies the SCA’s role to manage and protect the catchment areas and catchment infrastructure works, be it a supplier of bulk water, or to regulate certain activities within, or affecting, the outer catchment and inner catchment areas. The principal objectives of the SCA, defined in the Act, are to ensure the catchment areas and infrastructure are managed and protected to promote water quality, the protection of public health and safety and the protection of the environment. The Act also enables an Operating Licence to be issued to authorise the SCA to provide, construct, operate, manage and maintain systems and services, in order to achieve its objectives. The Act also requires the SCA to make arrangements with Sydney Water Corporation on the standard of the quality of the water supplied from the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment (the Catchment) to Sydney Water. The Bulk Water Supply Agreement (BWSA) addresses the supply of raw water to customers (primarily Sydney Water). This agreement specifies the quality of raw water that is to be supplied to the water filtration plants. The SCA has a Water Management Licence, administered by the NSW Office of Water (NOW – formerly Department of Water and Energy), for its activities in relation to the abstraction and use of water from identified water sources and water management works. The licence also specifies the quantity of water that must be made available for environmental purposes. The SCA regulates activities in the special and controlled areas likely to impact on its ability to supply high quality raw water to its customers through the Sydney Water Catchment Management Regulation 2008. The SCA jointly manages the Special Areas with the Department of Environment Climate Change and Water (DECCW) under the Special Areas Strategic Plans of Management. The Plan sets the framework for a high level of protection of the natural and cultural heritage in these areas, and maintain the areas as intact buffers for the storages. The Sydney Water Catchment Management Regulation 2008 allows SCA to exercise power under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 for non- scheduled activities. These powers may be exercised when protecting catchment areas or protecting and enhancing the quality of water in catchment areas. The SCA is also involved in the development and assessment processes in the Catchment under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) through a concurrence role of the Regional Environmental Plan N.1 (REP 1) which replaces the previous SEPP 58, assisting in the protection of Sydney’s drinking water supply.

Appendix A 1 Department of Environment Climate Change and Water NSW On 11 June 2009, the Premier announced significant public sector reforms to reduce the number of agencies from 160 to 13. As part of this reform, the NSW Government brought together a number of environment and natural resource management related responsibilities and services into one organisation to: • provide an integrated response to the unprecedented challenges of climate change • progress reforms in sustainable management and regulation of our natural resources • effectively manage our terrestrial and marine parks and reserves. DECCW builds on the strengths of its combined agencies and uses that knowledge, science, innovation, and regulatory and field experience to tackle priority environmental, climate change, natural resource and cultural heritage issues for NSW. The Government has combined responsibilities of the former Department of Environment and Climate Change with the water responsibilities of the former Department of Water and Energy. DECCW reports to the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment and the Minister for Water. As part of the public sector reform, the new NSW Office of Water (NOW) has been established within DECCW. NOW is responsible for strategic management of the State’s surface water and groundwater resources. DECCW is the lead NSW Government department with responsibility for protecting and caring for our environment, managing water resources and developing and coordinating programs to address the impacts of climate change in NSW. DECCW employs over 4000 staff, many of whom work in regional areas, bring an exceptional range of expertise to DECCW’s work, including policy, science, education, regulation, planning, communication, land management and fire fighting. The Parks and Wildlife Group (PWG) within DECCW has a critical role in the joint management of Special Areas with SCA. The role includes the responsibility to comply with all applicable Acts and Regulations, agreed standard operating procedures, guidelines and all reasonable SCA directives for the purposes of enhancing or maintaining water quality and for compliance by the SCA with its statutory objectives.

Industry & Investment NSW Industry & Investment NSW (I&I NSW) was formed in July 2009 by bringing together a number of former NSW Government departments and authorities. These partner agencies include the Department of Primary Industries (including Forests NSW), Department of Energy, and Department of State and Regional Development (including Tourism NSW). I&I NSW was established to assist in building a diversified state economy that creates jobs. The department aims to attract investment to NSW and support innovative, sustainable and globally competitive industries through strong technical knowledge and scientific capabilities. They do this through effective partnerships with industry sectors and by linking them to the state's knowledge and skills capacity. I&I NSW (Minerals and Petroleum Division) is responsible for approving, regulating and monitoring mining and associated activities in NSW. It has a role in the

2 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment rehabilitation of abandoned and derelict mine sites. They also have a role in managing mine subsidence. The department’s Agriculture Division conducts agricultural research and provides practical and sustainable farm production and environmental advice to commercial farmers, graziers, horticulturists, agribusiness and other groups. There are extensive areas of agriculture in the Catchment. The Fishing and Aquaculture Division is responsible for the sustainable management of commercial and recreational fishing, the protection of aquatic threatened species, populations and ecological communities, the protection of key aquatic habitats and the conservation of aquatic biodiversity. It carries out scientific research and resource management compliance and also provides management and advisory services. In consultation with industry and the community, the Division develops policies and regulations on the sustainable use of the state’s aquatic resources. The Division has undertaken substantial fish sampling in the Catchment. Forest NSW is responsible for sustainably managing more than two million hectares of public native forests and a large area of planted forests in NSW. There are some areas of State Forest in the Catchment.

NSW Department of Planning The Department of Planning (DoP) is involved in the planning, policy and regulation in relation to the natural and built environment, rural and urban management (including urban growth, renewal and consolidation) and the development of housing policies. DoP prepared the Drinking Water Catchments Regional Environmental Plan No. 1 (which from July 2009 is deemed a State environmental planning policy (SEPP)) in conjunction with the SCA. The SEPP is a regional plan for the environmental, social and economic future of the catchments that supply drinking water to Sydney, Blue Mountains and the Illawarra. SCA is working with local communities and landholders to implement the plan.

NSW Office of Water The NSW Office of Water (NOW) delivers the Government’s policy and reform agenda for the water in NSW. It provides policy, legislative, regulatory and management advice in relation to surface water and groundwater to the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and the Minister for Water. NOW works with water users, government agencies and other stakeholders towards achieving the secure and sustainable allocation of water between communities, industry, farmers and the environment; and reliable and sustainable urban water and energy supplies. Key services provided by NOW that contribute to these results include: • preparing statutory plans to guide water sharing between users and the environment • administering water licences and approvals (including structures on designated floodplains), assessing resource availability, allocating available water to licensees, monitoring compliance and, where necessary taking appropriate enforcement action • developing and implementing water trading rules supporting effective market operation

Appendix A 3 • monitoring and evaluating water resource quantity and quality, and associated ecosystems • liaising with other States and the Commonwealth to support implementation of the National Water Initiative and Murray–Darling basin reforms • urban water planning and policy in support of the Metropolitan Water Plan • leadership and guidance in best-practice management, operation and maintenance for non-metropolitan urban water utilities, supervising and monitoring utility performance, including financial support for backlog water and sewerage infrastructure.

NSW Department of Health The primary aim of the NSW Department of Health (NSW Health) is to ensure the public is provided with the best possible health care, and thus has a role in ensuring safe drinking water. NSW Health monitors the quality of drinking water through information provided by the agencies it regulates, and develops standards and guidelines for the treatment of waste water. It reviews the monitoring program for pathogens undertaken by Sydney Water and the SCA. The Chief Health Officer of NSW Health has the power to restrict or prevent the use of water that is considered unfit for human consumption.

Catchment management authorities Thirteen catchment management authorities (CMAs) have been established across the state by the NSW Government to ensure that regional communities have a significant say in how natural resources are managed in their catchments. There are three CMAs within the Catchment, namely the Sydney Metropolitan, Hawkesbury– Nepean and Southern rivers. The CMAs are locally driven organisations with a board that reports directly to the NSW Minister for Climate Change and the Environment. The CMAs are established under the Catchment Management Authorities Act 2003 (CMA Act) to coordinate natural resource management (NRM) in each catchment. The CMAs are responsible for involving regional communities in management of the NRM issues facing their region, and are the primary means for the delivery of funding from the NSW and Australian governments to help land managers improve and restore the natural resources of the State. CMAs are responsible for the development of Catchment Action Plans aimed at natural resource management at a catchment level. They work in partnership with the community, local government, State Government agencies, industry and individuals.

Natural Resources Commission of New South Wales The Natural Resources Commission (NRC) was established by the Natural Resources Commission Act 2003 with a broad function of providing the Government with independent advice on a range of natural resource management issues. The NRC reports jointly to the Premier and the Minister for Natural Resources. The NRC's core functions are to: • recommend state-wide standards and targets for natural resource management • review and recommend the approval of Catchment Action Plans prepared by 13 CMAs across NSW • audit CMAs’ implementation of these plans and their effectiveness in achieving state-wide standards and targets.

4 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Other roles of the NRC include auditing Water Sharing Plans and other natural resource plans, and conducting inquiries into natural resource management issues as directed by the Government.

Local councils Local councils have many roles and responsibilities in the Catchment, including as: • a regulator under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 • a land-use planner using the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 • as an operator responsible for the management of infrastructure such as urban stormwater systems and sewerage services.

Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal of NSW The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has a range of roles, including setting maximum water prices and administering licences that authorise water utilities, including the Operating Licences issued to Sydney Water Corporation and the SCA. IPART are undertaking the end of term review of SCA’s Operating Licence in 2010.

NSW Rural Fire Service The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is responsible for the coordination and planning of bushfire fighting and hazard reduction operations throughout NSW. At the local government scale, there are bushfire management committees included in the above role, including representatives from DECCW and the SCA. The SCA has worked with the RFS on improving fire management practices.

Livestock health and pest authorities There are 14 Livestock health and pest authorities (LHPAs) in the state which are involved in the control of pest animal species and livestock diseases. They also have an advisory role to landholders. The SCA and the DECCW have worked with the LHPAs to ensure the coordination of pest control strategies in the Catchment.

NSW Rural Assistance Authority The NSW Rural Assistance Authority administers assistance measures to rural producers and small businesses in regional NSW. For example, the Authority administers the Special Conservation Scheme to encourage improved and sustainable land management by farmers.

Heritage Council of NSW The main role of the NSW Heritage Council is to implement the NSW Heritage Act 1977. This includes management design and implementation for heritage listings and an advisory role on matters affecting heritage sites. Heritage Council listings include both built and key natural environments. The Wingecarribee Swamp in the Catchment is a state listed natural site. There are many built sites of state and local heritage significance in the Catchment including Avon, Cataract and Cordeaux dams.

Appendix A 5 Dams Safety Committee The statutory function of the Dams Safety Committee is to ensure that all prescribed dams in NSW are safe and maintained. The Committee must also ensure that mining operations near dams do not affect the integrity of the dam or create significant water loss from a storage.

Universities Universities are often involved in providing expertise and research support for the SCA. For example, the University of NSW, Macquarie and Sydney universities have all been involved in research on pathogens.

Industry Industry in the Catchment is diverse and includes: mining and extractive industry, forestry and horticulture, livestock and commercial industries, and telecommunication and energy-based industry. The environmental performance of all industry is regulated by either council, the SCA or DECCW under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 (EP&A Act). New industry is subject to development assessment processes under the EP&A Act, including SEPP 58 for developments with a high potential threat to water quality.

Residents Individuals must seek council approval to conduct water supply work, draw water from a council water supply, conduct sewerage or storm-water works, or connect a private drain or sewer to a public drain or sewer. Residents can have a role in community groups which are active in decision making. All residents have a basic responsibility to prevent pollution.

6 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Appendix B List of parties that responded to the audit

Individuals and organisations who provided a submission or a response to the 2010 Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Audit

Individuals • Mr Phillip Anderson • Mr Andrew Bowman • Ms Sharyn Cullis • Mr Scott Jago • Mrs Jensen • Dr Ann Young

Organisations • Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) • Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (SRCMA) • Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment Management Authority (HNCMA) • Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) • Wingecarribee Shire Council • Blue Mountains Conservation Society • Delta Electricity • Georges River Environmental Alliance • Peabody Energy Australia • Palerang Council • Sydney Water Corporation • Wollondilly Shire Council • NSW Department of Health • Kangaroo Valley Environment Group • Best Environmental Technologies • Campbelltown City Council • Rivers SOS • Office of the Hawkesbury–Nepean • Kiama Municipal Council • National Parks Association of NSW • Sutherland Shire Council • Industry & Investment NSW (I&I NSW) • Goulburn Mulwaree Council

Appendix B 7 • Nature Conservation Council of NSW • NSW Rural Fire Service • NSW Minerals Council Ltd • Livestock Health and Pest Authority (LHPA) • NSW Planning List of stakeholders provided with a draft of the report to comment on the accuracy information and data provided to the audit: • Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) • Southern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (SRCMA) • Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority (HNCMA) • Sydney Metropolitan Catchment Management Authority (SMCMA) • NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) • NSW Office of Water (part of DECCW) • Industry and Investment NSW (I&I NSW)

8 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Appendix C Sub-catchment summaries

Appendix C 9

Upper Coxs River

Figure C1: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C1 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 10

Pressures The Upper Coxs River sub-catchment is under a high level of stress (SCA 2007a). There are two sewage treatment plants (STPs) located at Lithgow and Wallerawang which impact locally on water quality. Flow is regulated by dams (Lake Wallace, Thompsons Reservoir and Lake Lyell) for power supply and there are seven barriers to fish passage. Farmers Creek Dam is used to supply drinking water to Lithgow. There is also geomorphical disturbance due to both current and historic mining operations. In addition, there are a number of areas currently affected by dryland salinity The Upper Coxs River sub-catchment is under pressure from the extraction of surface and ground water, as a large volume of water is permitted to be extracted under water access licences by Delta Electricity, and there are also a moderate number of farm dams and groundwater bores in this sub-catchment (DECC 2007). There is a large urban residential area at Lithgow in the sub-catchment. There were a small number of sites of pollution and potential contamination in the medium risk category, and a single mine in this sub-catchment. A few of these sites were located close to Lake Wallace and the Coxs River. There was a small area of land in this sub-catchment affected by gully erosion (DECC 2007). The SCA’s Catchment Decision Support System (CDSS) (SCA 2009a) identified Farmers Creek to be affected by Lithgow STP, urban stormwater and roads yielding a high to very high nutrient source rating, moderate suspended solids source rating and high pathogen source rating. Pipers Flat Creek was identified as being affected by Wallerawang STP, urban stormwater, grazing and roads, yielding a moderate suspended solids source rating and a high pathogen source rating. In addition, Delta Electricity’s licensed blowdown discharge discharges a relatively large volume of highly saline (>2000 µS/cm conductivity) water to the Upper Coxs River downstream of Lake Wallace. This discharge can also contain high levels of some heavy metals (e.g. copper). Other licensed discharges from coal mine operations in Kangaroo and Neubecks Creek also have issues with elevated salinity and heavy metal levels. Potential future pressures arise from increased urban and rural residential development and associated infrastructure, including increased discharges from STPs (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use The major land-use categories in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C2. The main land uses are forestry (33%), grazing or improved pastures (26%) and conservation or natural area purposes (24%).

Appendix C 11

Upper Coxs River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C2: Land use in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 4 gauging stations in the Upper Coxs River sub- catchment (Table C1). Records during the current audit period generally indicated a lower median flow in the Coxs River than the long-term median, but the median flow was similar to, or slightly higher than, median flows in the previous 6 years. It is clear that where records exist prior to the construction and operation of the dams, median flows were historically much higher than their current values. In recent times, low flows are also more frequent than the long-term average (Appendix F), potentially due to environmental flow provisions in Delta Electricity’s water management operating licence. Upstream of Lake Lyell, median flow in the Coxs River was higher during the current audit period than in the previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). Flow monitoring at Station 212058 commenced in December 2000, so assessments of flows at this point relative to what existed prior to the construction of Lake Wallace can not be made from these data. During the current audit period Neubecks Creek had a median flow that was similar to, but slightly lower than the long-term median. Flows in Neubecks Creek were similar to the 2004–2007 period, although 2004–2007 saw a relatively higher frequency of medium flows than those experienced during the current audit period (Appendix F). Median flow in the 2001–2004 period was slightly higher than median flow in the 2004–2007 period, but lower than the current audit period.

Appendix C 12

Table C1: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212008 Coxs River 09/02/1951 12.292 8.506 11.877 11.239 at Bathurst Rd 212058 Coxs River 15/12/2000 16.571 14.229 20.08 25.75 upstream of Lake Lyell 212055 Neubecks 07/12/1991 0.5 0.14 0.1 0.3 Ck upstream of Walwang 212042 Farmers Ck 25/09/1980 15.959 10.914 8.195 12.578 at Mt Walker

During the current audit period, Farmers Creek had a median flow that was similar to the long-term median flow. While the audit period flow exceedance curve was similar for the lower percentiles, there was an obvious lack of higher flows (Appendix F). Median flow during the current audit period was higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007).

Environmental flows Delta Electricity’s Water Licence is currently under review (NOW 2010). This review is likely to change the way in which environmental flows are released in the future in the Upper Coxs River catchment.

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality A variety of organisations have been, or are currently involved, in monitoring the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment (e.g. SCA, Sydney Water (and its predecessor organisations: Water Board and MWSDB), DECCW, Delta Electricity, various Streamwatch groups). Long-term water quality monitoring in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment is, however, limited to only a few sites. The Upper Coxs River and its tributaries were therefore divided into sections and water quality results from multiple sites within these sections are used to infer water quality state and trend. During the audit period:  median total nitrogen (TN) levels were highest in Farmers Creek near Lake Lyell (median=1.9 mg/L), Coxs River downstream of the blowdown discharge to Marrangaroo Creek (median=1.4 mg/L), and Coxs River downstream of Sawyers Swamp Creek to Pipers Flat Creek (median=0.8 mg/L). In these sections, all TN levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines (ANECC/ARMCANZ 2000) for upland rivers. Elevated TN levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in the Coxs River downstream of Lake Wallace (median=0.74) and Coxs River downstream of Marrangaroo Creek (median=0.7). Lower levels of TN were recorded in Neubecks Creek (median=0.28 mg/L) and the Coxs River

Appendix C 13

upstream of Kangaroo Creek (median=0.335mg/l1). All median TN levels were above ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers.  median total phosphorus (TP) levels were highest in the Coxs River downstream of the blowdown discharge to Marrangaroo Creek (median=0.4 mg/L), Farmers Creek near Lake Lyell (median=0.115 mg/L), Coxs River downstream of Sawyers Swamp Creek to Pipers Flat Creek (median=0.09 mg/L) and Coxs River downstream of Marrangaroo Creek (median=0.06 mg/L). In these sections, almost all TP levels measured were above the ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers. Elevated TP levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in Pipers Flat Creek (median=0.03 mg/L). Low levels of TP were recorded in the Coxs River upstream of Kangaroo Creek (median=0.019mg/L).  median conductivity levels were highest in the Coxs River downstream of the blowdown discharge to Marrangaroo Creek (median=1.6 mS/cm), Coxs River downstream of Marrangaroo Creek (median=1.081 mS/cm), Coxs River downstream of Lake Wallace (median=0.751 mS/cm), Coxs River downstream of Sawyers Swamp Creek to Pipers Flat Creek (median=0.676 mS/cm) and Pipers Flat Creek (median=0.464 mS/cm). In these sections, all conductivity levels measured were above the ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers. Elevated conductivity levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in Neubecks Creek (median=0.445 mS/cm). Low levels of conductivity were recorded in the Coxs River upstream of Kangaroo Creek (median=0.04 mS/cm) and Marrangaroo Creek (median=0.05 mS/cm).

Lake water quality During the audit period:  median TN levels were highest in Lake Lyell (1.89 mg/L). Elevated TN levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in Lake Wallace (0.7 mg/L) and Thompsons Creek Dam (0.65 mg/L). In Lake Wallace and Lake Lyell, all TN levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. In Thompsons Creek Dam, the median TN level measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs.  median TP levels were highest in Lake Lyell (0.1 mg/L). Elevated TP levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in Lake Wallace (0.08 mg/L) and Thompsons Creek Dam (0.02 mg/L). In Lake Wallace and Lake Lyell, all TP levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. In Thompsons Creek Dam, the 25th percentile TP level was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs.  median chlorophyll a levels were moderate in Lake Wallace (2 µg/L), Lake Lyell (3.6 µg/L) and Thompsons Creek Dam (2 µg/L). Relatively high chlorophyll a levels were recorded in Lake Wallace in December 2007 (20 µg/L) and May 2008 (56 µg/L). Relatively high chlorophyll a levels were recorded in Lake Lyell in September and November 2007 (68.5 and 49 µg/L respectively), August 2008 (41 µg/L) and February 2009 (63.2 µg/L).  median conductivity levels were relatively high for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median levels were highest in Lake Wallace (0.779 mS/cm), followed by Thompsons Creek Dam (0.59 mS/cm) and then Lake Lyell (0.52 mS/cm).

1 Sample sizes for nutrient data during the audit period were small for the Coxs River upstream of Kangaroo Creek (n=4).

Appendix C 14

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment were available from thirty eight (38) sites over the last decade (Figure C3 and Table C2). Macroinvertebrate data were primarily sourced from the SCA, DECCW and Delta Electricity monitoring programs. Four of these sites (10.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Ten of these sites (26.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Eighteen of these sites (47.4%) had their most recent AusRivAs rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Two of these sites (5.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Extremely Impaired’ (Band D). Four of these sites were found to be outside the experience of the model (OEM). Macroinvertebrate data were also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C2. There may be additional macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been reported on here. Only one SCA core site, A16 (edge habitat), has been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at this site generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band B.

Wetlands A variety of wetland types occur in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment (Figure C4). There is, however, limited information available on their overall condition. Some swamps have been impacted by longwall mining, mine water discharges and water transfers to the Farmers Creek Dam water supply. One of the largest swamps in this area is Long Swamp in the Upper Reaches of the Coxs River. Long Swamp has been impacted by mine water discharges and 4WD tracks and is potentially threatened by longwall mining altering groundwater levels adjacent to the swamp (Aurecon 2009). Many areas of Long Swamp are still in good condition and giant dragonflies (Petalura gigantea) have been recorded in its upper reaches. Some areas of Long Swamp are experiencing increased desiccation for an unknown reason. Kangaroo Creek Swamp in the upper reaches of Kangaroo Creek has recently been impacted by longwall mining. Piezometer levels suggest that the perched aquifer in the swamp has been lost post mining, with piezometric levels now quickly falling to the base of the piezometer after rain (Centennial Coal 2009). Farmers Creek Swamp is classified as a Newnes Plateau Shrub Swamp (Endangered Ecologiocal Community) and is located at the top of the Farmers Creek catchment. The Clarence Water Transfer Scheme transfers water from the Clarence Colliery Dam to settling ponds above Farmers Creek Swamp where the water then flows by gravity through an outlet pipe located at the top of Farmers Creek Swamp. It appears likely that channelling and erosion in Farmers Creek Swamp downstream of the outlet pipe is related to relatively recent and above average historical flows into the swamp and the flows from the Clarence transfer scheme are likely to have been

Appendix C 15

a major contributor to the gullying in the upper part of the swamp (DECCW 2010a). Proposals to address erosion issues in the transfer of water through the swamp are currently underway. This swamp is likely to be able to regenerate naturally if water transfers are piped around the swamp (DECCW 2010a).

Appendix C 16

Figure C3: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 17

Table C2: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 24017 (edge) -33.480970 150.129930 A 24017 (edge) -33.480970 150.129930 B 25019 -33.371460 150.133160 C A16 -33.380590 150.077980 A X A A B A B A B COXS01 -33.305730 150.097810 C COXS03 -33.325920 150.097620 B COXS04 -33.363920 150.082160 OEM COXS05 -33.376200 150.082760 C COXS06 -33.379990 150.079980 B COXS07 -33.425300 150.080126 C COXS08 -33.425431 150.080713 C COXS09 -33.425310 150.081350 C COXS10 -33.476560 150.073690 OEM CR1a (edge) -33.486168 150.076972 B B B CR1a (riffle) -33.486168 150.076972 B B B CR1b (edge) -33.486168 150.076972 B A A CR1b (riffle) -33.486168 150.076972 B A B CR1c (edge) -33.486168 150.076972 B A B CR1c (riffle) -33.486168 150.076972 B B A FARM02 -33.446560 150.175870 B FARM03 -33.470280 150.125960 C FARM05 -33.465270 150.193270 C FARM06 -33.478620 150.138360 OEM FARM08 -33.469590 150.166140 C HAWK544 (edge) -33.383200 150.077200 B HAWK545 (edge) -33.399500 150.079800 B HAWK547 (edge) -33.480200 150.137400 B HAWK547 (riffle) -33.480700 150.138000 C

Appendix C 18

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 HAWK548 (edge) -33.465300 150.196000 B HAWK548 (riffle) -33.465300 150.196000 B HAWK556 (edge) -33.475600 150.134300 B HAWK556 (riffle) -33.475600 150.134300 C KANG02 -33.350560 150.105440 OEM Kangaroo Creek (edge) -33.351000 150.103000 C Kangaroo Creek (edge) -33.351000 150.103000 A LG001 (edge) -33.478570 150.139160 D LG001 (riffle) -33.478570 150.139160 C MARA01 -33.431740 150.138800 C MARA02 -33.436490 150.113870 B Marrangaroo Creek (edge) -33.431000 150.137000 C Marrangaroo Creek (edge) -33.431000 150.137000 B MMP104 -33.404910 150.063860 A MMP195 -33.437310 150.113070 A MMP38 (edge) -33.475940 150.129060 C C C MMP38 (riffle) -33.475940 150.129060 C C NEU02 -33.361430 150.058000 C SAWS01 -33.393080 150.121840 C SAWS02 -33.380900 150.086725 D Sawyers Swamp Creek (edge) -33.385000 150.096000 C Sawyers Swamp Creek (edge) -33.385000 150.096000 C Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 19

Figure C4: Wetlands in the Upper Coxs River sub-catchment Source: DEC (2006) and SCA (2010a).

Physical form The Upper Coxs River sub-catchment contains the largest range of river channel types of any Hawkesbury–Nepean sub-catchment, ranging from Chain of Ponds to fully concrete lined urban channels. A number of river reaches are in very good condition with a management focus on conservation. These are typically the headwater reaches of the rivers. However, the majority of river reaches in this sub- catchment are highly degraded. The land has been extensively cleared for industry, agriculture and grazing, and some creeks are highly modified by urban developments. An extremely rare example of a Chain of Ponds river channel type in good condition with a high recovery potential is located in the upper reaches of the Coxs River. This is a unique aspect of the sub-catchment and should be a priority for management to protect it from degradation (HNCMA 2008a).

Appendix C 20

Mid Coxs River sub-catchment

Figure C5: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C5 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 21

Pressures The Mid Coxs River catchment was considered to be under a high level of stress (SCA 2007a) due to Mt Victoria STP effluent and agricultural sources in the Megalong valley. Sewage from Mt Victoria (and Blackheath) STP has since been transferred to Winmalee STP, leaving agriculture, sewage overflows and roads as some of the primary pressures (SCA 2009a). The Mid Coxs River sub-catchment may be under pressure from surface and ground water extractions, as there are a large number of farm dams in the sub-catchment and a moderate number of groundwater bores. There is however, only a small volume of water permitted to be extracted under water access licences (DECC 2007). There are a small number of sites of pollution and potential contamination, and a single mine and a single quarry in the very high, high and medium risk categories. A small area of land in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment is also affected by gully erosion (DECC 2007). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified Blackheath Creek to be affected by sewers, yielding a moderate nutrient source rating and moderate pathogen source rating. Gibraltar Creek, Yorkeys Creek and the River Lett were identified as being affected by roads, yielding a moderate suspended solids source rating. The Mid Coxs River sub-catchment starts below Lake Lyell and so the Coxs River in this section is affected by upstream river regulation (primarily Lake Lyell and Lake Wallace). The Expert Panel Report (DLWC 1998), on the Coxs River below Lyell Dam, considered that this regulation contributed to:  degradation of sections of the main channel, particularly through narrowing, sand encroachment and infilling of pools  isolated stagnant pools  lack of connective flow between pools  weed and other vegetation encroachment  accumulation of organic matter and biogenic coating of be materials  poor fish habitat  lack of flow variability  localised groundwater contraction. This has partially been addressed by the institution of increased environmental flows from Lake Lyell, however, flow variability and habitat is still an issue that is being looked at closely as part of the current review of Delta Electricity’s water management licence. Other potential future pressures arise from increased intensity of agriculture (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C6. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (61%) and land utilised for grazing and improved pastures (27%).

Appendix C 22

Mid Coxs River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential

Transport and utilities Services or recreation

Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C6: Land use in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent data on flow was available from 5 gauging stations in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment (Table C3). Records during the current audit period generally indicated lower median flow in the Coxs River compared to the long-term median. It is clear that where records exist prior to the construction and operation of the dams, flows were historically much higher than their current values (Appendix F). In 1998 it was suggested that, under the flow release rules operating at the time, median monthly flows below Lyell Dam were reduced from 70 to 3.7 ML/d, below River Lett confluence from 105 to 40 ML/d and below Blackheath Creek confluence from 130 to 90 ML/d (SMEC 1998). This situation has improved somewhat with increased flow releases from Lake Lyell, and further consideration of variable flow releases is currently underway as part of the review of Delta Electricity’s Water Management licence. Immediately downstream of Lake Lyell (Stn 212011) median flow in the Coxs River during the audit period was similar to median flows in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). In recent times, low flows were more frequent than the long-term percentiles (Appendix F), potentially due to environmental flow provisions in Delta Electricity’s operating licence.

Appendix C 23

Table C3: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment.

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212011 Coxs River 28/05/1960 38.403 7.658 7.015 7.851 at Lithgow 212013 Megalong 21/11/1968 5.056 2.123 1.405 5.199 Ck at NarrowNeck 2122512 Coxs River 01/05/1999 8.617 6.979 7.472 10.718 at Glenroy Bridge 212045 Coxs River 02/01/1981 46.6 15.762 12.137 46.8 at Island Hill 212250 Coxs River 02/11/1966 169.6 59.246 45.987 123.43 at Kelpie Point

During the current audit period Megalong Creek appeared to have had a return of flows so that the median flow was similar to the long-term median, whereas in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007) median flows had been much less than the long-term median. During the current audit period median flow in the Coxs River at Glenroy Bridge (Station 2122512) was similar to median flows in the previous two periods (2001– 2004 and 2004–2007). There was a decreased frequency of higher flows though (Appendix F). Records for this station commenced in May 1999 which is post construction of Lake Lyell During the audit period the median flow in the Coxs River at Island Hill (212045) was higher than flows in the previous 6 years and similar to the long-term median. However this latter result is influenced to some extent by regulation of flows from Lake Lyell. Flows during the audit period were lower than the flows recorded prior to the construction and operation of Lake Lyell (Appendix F). Records for this station commenced in January 1981 which is post construction of Lake Wallace. During the audit period median flow in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point (212250) were higher than median flows in the previous 6 years, but lower than the long-term median flow. A lower frequency of higher flows was particularly evident and likely to be a result of regulation of flows from Lake Lyell and Lake Wallace (Appendix F).

Environmental flows Delta’s Water Licence is currently under review (NOW 2010). This review is likely to change the way in which environmental flows are released in the future in the Mid Coxs River catchment.

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality A variety of organisations have been, or are currently involved, in monitoring the Mid Coxs River catchment (e.g. SCA, Sydney Water (and its predecessor organisations: Water Board and MWSDB), DECCW, Delta Electricity, various Streamwatch groups). Long-term water quality monitoring in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment is, however,

Appendix C 24

limited to only a few sites. The Coxs River and its tributaries were therefore divided into sections and water quality results from multiple sites within these sections were used to infer water quality state and trend. During the audit period:  median TN levels were highest in the Coxs River below Lake Lyell to Glenroy (median=0.9 mg/L). In this section, all TN levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. Elevated TN levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in the Coxs River downstream of Glenroy to Duddawarra (median=0.475 mg/L; but the sample size was small - n=2). Lower levels of TN were recorded in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point (median=0.28 mg/L) and River Lett (median=0.21 mg/L; although the sample size at this site was again small - n=4). Median TN levels were above ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point but not River Lett. Based on these percentiles, there is a suggestion of an increasing trend in recent times for TN levels in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point (site E083). This can be seen in the time series plot for TN levels at this site (see Figure C7).

Figure C7: TN levels in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point

 median TP levels were highest in the Coxs River below Lake Lyell to Glenroy (median=0.04 mg/L). In this section, all TP levels measured were above the ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers. Elevated TP levels (relative to ANZECC guidelines) were also recorded in the Coxs River downstream of Glenroy to Duddawarra (median=0.0305 mg/L; but the sample size was small – n=2). Lower levels of TP were recorded in the Coxs River at Kelpie Point (median=0.012 mg/L) and River Lett (median=0.0125 mg/L; again, the sample size at this site was small - n=4). Almost all TP levels measured at these latter two sites were below the ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers.  median conductivity levels were highest in the Coxs River below Lake Lyell to Glenroy (median=0.506 mS/cm). In this section, almost all conductivity levels measured were above the ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers. Low levels of conductivity were recorded in the River Lett (median=0.14 mS/cm) and the Coxs River at Kelpie Point (median=0.141 mS/cm).

Appendix C 25

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment were available from fifty seven (57) sites over the last decade (Figure C8 and Table C4). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA, DECCW and Delta Electricity monitoring programs. Two of these sites (3.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Twenty of these sites (35.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Thirty three of these sites (57.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two of these sites (3.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C4. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Three core sites, E086, MMP37 and MMP55 have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at these sites were consistently rated as Band A (Similar to Reference) or higher at Band X (Richer than Reference), with an occasional Band B (Significantly Impaired; Table C4). The latest AusRivAs rating at E086 (2009) was Band A; site MMP37 (2009) was Band X; and site MMP55 was Band A.

Appendix C 26

Figure C8: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 27

Table C4: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 23002 (edge) -33.632920 150.119640 A 23002 (edge) -33.632920 150.119640 B 23026 (edge) -33.643080 150.181920 A 23026 (edge) -33.643080 150.181920 A 23075 (edge) -33.782790 150.230770 B 23075 (riffle) -33.782790 150.230770 B 23161 (edge) -33.690070 150.157140 A A 23161 (riffle) -33.690070 150.157140 A 24038 (edge) -33.536630 150.136150 A 24038 (edge) -33.536630 150.136150 B 24067 (edge) -33.520170 150.240980 A 24067 (riffle) -33.520170 150.240980 B E086 (edge) -33.871660 150.253800 X A A A A A B A A E086 (riffle) -33.871660 150.253800 A A X A X X A EFR2a (edge) -33.531378 150.082992 A A B EFR2a (riffle) -33.531378 150.082992 B C B EFR2b (edge) -33.531378 150.082992 B B A EFR2b (riffle) -33.531378 150.082992 C B B EFR2c (edge) -33.531378 150.082992 B B A EFR2c (riffle) -33.531378 150.082992 B B C EFR3a (edge) -33.550458 150.127562 B A B EFR3a (riffle) -33.550458 150.127562 A B B EFR3b (edge) -33.550458 150.127562 A A B EFR3b (riffle) -33.550458 150.127562 B B B EFR3c (edge) -33.550458 150.127562 B B A EFR3c (riffle) -33.550458 150.127562 B B B EFR4a (edge) -33.548148 150.144871 B A B EFR4a (riffle) -33.548148 150.144871 B A B

Appendix C 28

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 EFR4b (edge) -33.548148 150.144871 B A B EFR4b (riffle) -33.548148 150.144871 A B B EFR4c (edge) -33.548148 150.144871 B A B EFR4c (riffle) -33.548148 150.144871 B B B HAWK10 (edge) -33.729870 150.246840 A A B A HAWK10 (edge) -33.729870 150.246840 A HAWK10 (riffle) -33.729870 150.246840 A A B A HAWK11 (edge) -33.778200 150.006600 A HAWK11 (riffle) -33.778200 150.006600 A HAWK12 (edge) -33.565300 150.075400 A HAWK12 (riffle) -33.565300 150.075400 A HAWK864 (edge) -33.551100 150.123200 A X A A HAWK864 (edge) -33.551100 150.123200 X A HAWK864 (riffle) -33.551100 150.123200 X B B HAWK90 (edge) -33.729600 150.245700 A HAWK90 (riffle) -33.729600 150.245700 A HAWK901 (edge) -33.782600 150.005400 B HAWK901 (riffle) -33.782600 150.005400 A HAWK902 (edge) -33.818500 150.034400 A HAWK902 (riffle) -33.818500 150.034400 X HAWK903 (edge) -33.822900 150.029900 A HAWK903 (riffle) -33.822900 150.029900 X LETT02 -33.532390 150.241740 C LETT03 -33.543690 150.175460 B LETT04 -33.549280 150.149170 B LETT05 -33.519850 150.241790 B MMP105 (edge) -33.689280 150.157090 A MMP105 (riffle) -33.689280 150.157090 A MMP118 -33.532270 150.241880 B MMP120 -33.636520 150.135900 A

Appendix C 29

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 MMP184 -33.618080 150.233780 B MMP233 (edge) -33.743080 150.179740 A MMP233 (riffle) -33.743080 150.179740 A MMP243 (edge) -33.708600 150.235200 A MMP243 (riffle) -33.708600 150.235200 B MMP37 (edge) -33.549520 150.124440 A A A A A X A X X MMP37 (riffle) -33.549520 150.124440 A A A A A A MMP55 (edge) -33.765370 150.135750 X A A A A X A A A MMP55 (riffle) -33.765370 150.135750 A A B A A B X MMP56 -33.817350 150.035850 A MMP78 -33.732170 150.235000 B RR5a (edge) -33.536988 150.091412 A B B RR5a (riffle) -33.536988 150.091412 B B B RR5b (edge) -33.536988 150.091412 A A B RR5b (riffle) -33.536988 150.091412 B A B RR5c (edge) -33.536988 150.091412 B A B RR5c (riffle) -33.536988 150.091412 B B B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 30

Wetlands The location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) are shown in Figure C9. Major wetland types include the Blue Mountains – Shoalhaven Hanging Swamp, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Riverbank Forest. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in the Mid Coxs River sub- catchment.

Figure C9: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Mid Coxs River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 31

Lower Coxs River

Figure C10: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C10 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 32

Pressures The Lower Coxs River catchment was considered to be under a high level of stress (SCA 2007a) due to altered river geomorphology and aquatic ecology as a result of the presence of Lake Burragorang downstream. The Upper Kedumba River Valley catchment covers the western part of Katoomba and is bordered by the Katoomba township (to approximately Lurline Street in the east), the Great Western Highway/Rail corridor in the north, Narrow Neck Road in the west and Katoomba Falls in the south (BMCC 2004). Runoff from this catchment is therefore delivered to the Kedumba River which flows directly into Lake Burragorang. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified Jamison and Leura Falls Creeks to be affected by stormwater, yielding a moderate nutrient source rating and moderate suspended solids source rating. The Mid Kedumba River was identified as being affected by sewage, yielding a high pathogen and nutrient source rating. A small volume of water is licensed to be extracted by water access licences and there is a small number of farm dams in the sub-catchment, suggesting that surface water extraction is not a major pressure in this sub-catchment (DECC 2007). There is also a moderate number of groundwater bores in the Lower Coxs River sub- catchment. There was a small number of sites of pollution and potential contamination, mines and quarries in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment (DECC 2007).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C11. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are: conservation or natural areas which occupy 91% of the sub-catchment; and urban and rural residential areas (4% of the sub-catchment).

Appendix C 33

Lower Coxs River

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Grazing or improved pastures Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C11: Land use in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment Source: Data from (SCA 2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent data on flow was only available from the Kedumba River gauge (Table C5). Records during the audit period generally indicated Table C5: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212016 Kedumba 03/06/1990 19.381 13.504 12.28 19.763 River at Maxwells Crossing

During the current audit period median flow in the Kedumba River at Maxwells Crossing (19.763 ML/day) was similar to the long-term median for this site (19.381 ML/day). The median flow during the current audit period was higher than the median flow in the earlier two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007).

Appendix C 34

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality A variety of organisations have been involved in monitoring in the Lower Coxs River catchment in the past (e.g. SCA, Sydney Water (and its predecessor organisations: Water Board and MWSDB) and DECCW). Long-term water quality monitoring in the Mid Coxs River catchment appears, however, limited to one SCA site (Kedumba River at Maxwells Crossing: E157). The medianTN level in the Kedumba River at Maxwells Crossing was relatively high (median=0.43 mg/L) during the current audit period. The majority of TN levels measured in the Kedumba River were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. Historic median TN levels had previously been much higher (median=1.93 mg/L) as a result of discharges from South Katoomba STP. South Katoomba STP was decommissioned in the mid 1990s. Median TN levels over the last 3 periods (2001–2004, 2004–2007 and 2007–2010) have been similar. Median TP levels in the Kedumba River at Maxwells Crossing were relatively high (median=0.027 mg/L) during the audit period. This median TP level is above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. When discharges from South Katoomba STP were occurring it had been much higher (median=0.425 mg/L). Median levels over the last 3 periods (2001–2004, 2004–2007 have been similar to the current audit period. Median conductivity levels in the Kedumba River at Maxwells Crossing were relatively low (median=0.075 mS/cm) during the current audit period. Most measured levels met ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers.

Lake water quality The SCA previously had two long-term dam monitoring sites which were located in Lake Burragorang in this sub-catchment (DWA19 and DWA 21; Appendix G). However, monitoring records finished in most cases in 2004 and no data was available for these sites during the current audit period. Previously, DWA19 had been under the influence of the Kedumba River inflow and high nutrient levels from the now decommissioned South Katoomba STP. The latest records (2001–2004 period) indicated relatively low TN levels (median=0.25-0.28 mg/L), but elevated TP levels (median=0.012-0.014 mg/L). Median chlorophyll a levels were also slightly elevated (2.8 to 4.4 µg/L). Conductivity levels were low.

Appendix C 35

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Lower Coxs sub-catchment were available from eighteen (18) sites over the last decade (Figue C12 and Table C6). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Two of the eighteen sites (11.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Nine of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (22.2%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Three of these sites (16.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C6. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. The core site E157 has been assessed each year since 2001 and core site MMP76 since 2003. AusRivAs scores at E157 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band X (Richer than Reference). The latest AusRivAS rating at this site (2009) was Band A for the edge habitat and Band X for the riffle habitat. AusRivAs scores at MMP76 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band A for edge habitat and Band B for riffle habitat.

Appendix C 36

Figure C12: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 37

Table C6: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment.

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 22103 (edge) -33.836550 150.359600 A 22103 (riffle) -33.836550 150.359600 X 24007 (edge) -33.724400 150.305150 B 24007 (edge) -33.724400 150.305150 B E157 (edge) -33.803000 150.363640 A A A A X A A A A E157 (riffle) -33.803000 150.363640 A X A A A A X HAWK106 (edge) -33.827800 150.366700 B HAWK106 (riffle) -33.827800 150.366700 B HAWK108 (edge) -33.802600 150.365300 C HAWK108 (edge) -33.802600 150.365300 X MMP102 (edge) -33.826300 150.371670 A MMP102 (riffle) -33.826300 150.371670 A MMP122 (edge) -33.715290 150.374870 C C MMP122 (riffle) -33.715290 150.374870 B B MMP123 -33.825870 150.370700 C MMP183 -33.801130 150.366320 A MMP241 -33.719810 150.323060 B MMP36 -33.828230 150.314490 A MMP41 -33.730694 150.304166 C C MMP76 (edge) -33.749722 150.329444 A B A A R/A A A MMP76 (riffle) -33.749722 150.329444 A A A OEM B MMP77 (edge) -33.764530 150.351760 A A MMP77 (riffle) -33.764470 150.351860 A OEM Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled. *R/A refers to restricted access resulting in no sample.

Appendix C 38

Wetlands The location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) are shown in Figure C13. Major wetland types include the Blue Mountains – Shoalhaven Hanging Swamp, Burragorang River Flat Forest and Riverbank Forest. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in the Lower Coxs River sub- catchment.

Figure C13: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Lower Coxs River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 39

Grose River

Figure C14: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Grose sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C14 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Grose River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 40

Pressures The Grose River sub-catchment is considered to have a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Nearly all of the Grose River sub-catchment is in reserved land (the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area). Urban development is generally restricted to the areas around the townships of North Katoomba, Blackheath and Lawson. Stormwater is contributing sediments and nutrients to these reaches, while groundwater extraction, particularly in the upper reaches, is intensive (HNCMA 2008b). Only a small part of the Grose River catchment falls within the Sydney drinking water catchment. This includes:  the Lower, Middle and Upper Cascade dams and the upper Cascade Creek catchment  Greaves Creek Dam and the upper Greaves Creek catchment  Lake Medlow Dam and the Adams Creek catchment upstream of the dam  Woodford Dam at the junction of Bulls Creek and Woodford Creek and its upstream catchments. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Grose River sub- catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. Water quality was identified as being good (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Conservation or natural areas occupy the largest spatial extent in the Lake Greaves, Cascade Creek and Woodford Creek catchments.

Water availability

Surface water flow Level data is available for the dams in the Grose sub-catchment. It is possible that relationships between inflow and level, in conjunction with rainfall records, could be calculated for these catchments and which could then provide an assessment of trends in flow. Due to time constraints, however, these levels have not been analysed for the current audit. Flow data is, however, available for the Grose River much lower down in the catchment (Table C7). During the current audit period, the median flow in the Grose River at Burralow was similar to the long-term median. The median flow in the audit period was greater than those in the previous 6 years with flow in the periods 2001– 2004 and 2004–2007 being reasonably similar to each other (with an increased frequency of higher flows in the 2004–2007 period; Appendix F).

Appendix C 41

Table C7: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Grose River sub-catchment.

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212291 Grose 01/11/1987 95.674 68.53 63.95 116.42 River at Burralow

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Grose River catchment is undertaken by the SCA in the Blue Mountains dams. Fewer long-term data are available for the rivers and creeks, although some monitoring in the general area is undertaken by the Blue Mountains City Council (BMCC).

River water quality Water quality data from BMCC was not available for the current audit review, but future audits should look at bringing this data together with other monitoring data for the Grose River sub-catchment.

Lake water quality Recent long-term lake water quality monitoring data was available from the SCA for Cascade Dam, Greaves Creek Dam, and Lake Medlow Dam. Monitoring data for Woodford Dam was only available up to 2001. TP, TN and conductivity levels were all low with only an occasional value above ANZECC guideline levels for freshwater lakes and reservoirs (Appendix G). This is indicative of very good water quality in the Blue Mountains dams.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Grose River sub-catchment was available at nine (9) sites over the last decade (Figure C15 and Table C8). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Two of the nine sites (22.2%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Five of these sites (55.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two of these sites were found to be outside the experience of the model (OEM). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, MMP39 (with both edge and riffle habitat) and MMP40 (edge habitat only), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at these sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at both of these core sites (2009) was Band B.

Appendix C 42

Figure C15 Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Grose River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Grose River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 43

Table C8: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Grose River sub-catchment

Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 MMP121 (edge) -33.657120 150.323100 B MMP121 (riffle) -33.657120 150.323100 A MMP177 (edge) -33.681040 150.526810 A MMP177 (riffle) -33.681040 150.526810 B MMP178 -33.707750 150.467210 OEM MMP246 -33.685830 150.326260 OEM MMP39 (edge) -33.697400 150.485680 A B A A B B B A B MMP39 (riffle) -33.697400 150.485680 A B B MMP40 -33.685910 150.326420 A B B A A B B A B MMP60 -33.684440 150.305830 dry Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 44

Wetlands The location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) are shown in Figure C16. The plateaus of the Blue Mountains contain a large number of hanging swamps, which are listed as endangered ecological communities on the relevant Australian and NSW Government threatened species legislation (HNCMA 2008b). Limited information was available on the condition of these swamps during the current audit period.

Figure C16: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Grose sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 45

Kowmung River

Figure C17: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Kowmung River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C17 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Kowmung River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 46

Pressures The Kowmung River sub-catchment is considered to be under a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a).Approximately 70% of the Kowmung River catchment is protected within the Blue Mountains and Kanangra Boyd national parks, (part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area). The Kowmung River is fed by the tributaries of Tuglow and Hollanders rivers and Browns Creek. The headwaters of these tributary rivers are located in State Forests, much of them characterised by pine plantations which are under an active harvesting regime. The Kowmung River is considered to be in mostly near intact condition, however the tributaries have been subjected to agricultural and forestry development, which have caused erosion and vegetation degradation (HNCMA 2008c). Only a small volume of water is licensed to be extracted by water access licences and there are a relatively small number of farm dams and groundwater bores, suggesting that surface and ground water extraction are not major pressures in this sub-catchment (DECC 2007). There was one site of potential contamination, and one mine in the Kowmung River sub-catchment, and a small area of land affected by gully erosion (DECC 2007). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Kowmung River to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. The Kowmung River catchment has a relatively low population.

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use The major land-use categories in the Kowmung River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C18. The largest area of land in the sub-catchment is occupied by conservation or natural areas (78% of the catchment area) followed by areas of grazing and improved pastures (12%) and land used for forestry (10%).

Appendix C 47

Kowmung River

Transport and utilities Services or recreation

Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas

Figure C18: Landuse in the Kowmung River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent data on flow was only available from the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford gauge (Table C9). Table C9: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Kowmung River sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212260 Kowmung 01/05/1968 128.77 56.19 38.45 118.816 River at Cedar Ford During the current audit period, the median flow in the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford was similar to the long-term median, however there was a much lower frequency of high flows (Appendix F). Median flow in the audit period were much greater (more than double) those in the previous 6 years with flow in the periods 2001–2004 and 2004–2007 reasonably similar to one another.

Appendix C 48

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Kowmung River catchment is undertaken by the SCA in the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford (site E157). Some data is available in the 2001–2004 period for the Tuglow and Hollanders rivers. Median TN levels in the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford were high (median=0.4 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TN level measured in the Kowmung River was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level in the previous period (2004–2007) was slightly higher (median=0.5 mg/L). Lower median TN levels (0.17 - 0.18 mg/L) were recorded in the periods 1998–2001 and 2001–2004. Median TP levels in the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford were relatively low (median=0.013 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Kowmung River was below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP levels in the previous periods were slightly lower (median=0.008 - 0.1 mg/L). The median conductivity level in the Kowmung River at Cedar Ford was low (median=0.0715 mS/cm) during the current audit period and met ANZECC guideline levels for upstream rivers. Monitoring from the 2001–2004 period suggests that the Hollander River catchment generally supplies better quality water than the Tuglow River catchment, however there were no recent data during the audit period to confirm whether this remains the case.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Kowmung River sub-catchment were available from twenty two (22) sites over the last decade (Figure C19 and Table C10). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Three of these sites (13.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Eleven of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Six of these sites (27.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have also been included in Table C10. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two of the nine monitoring sites (9.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Two core sites, MMP14 and E130 (both with edge and riffle habitats) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have generally fluctuated between Band X (Richer than Reference) and Band A (Similar to

Appendix C 49

Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at E130 (2009) was Band A (edge habitat) and the latest AusRivAs rating at MMP14 (2009) was Band X (edge habitat).

Figure C19: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Kowmung River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Kowmung River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 50

Table C10: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Kowmung River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 24095 (edge) -33.953920 149.973830 A 24095 (riffle) -33.953920 149.973830 A 25002 (edge) -33.977880 149.860530 B 25002 (edge) -33.977880 149.860530 B 25004 (edge) -33.982970 149.914130 B 25004 (edge) -33.982970 149.914130 B 25013 (edge) -33.939800 149.897870 A 25013 (riffle) -33.939800 149.897870 C 25018 -33.945560 149.855650 C 25044 (edge) -33.954890 149.901340 A 25044 (riffle) -33.954890 149.901340 B E130 (edge) -33.945680 150.245290 A fires A A A X A A B A E130 (riffle) -33.945680 150.245290 A fires A A A A A X A X HAWK570 (edge) -33.956100 149.978000 A HAWK570 (riffle) -33.956100 149.978000 A MMP124 -33.988220 149.899260 X MMP125 (edge) -33.914200 149.985920 B MMP125 (riffle) -33.914200 149.985920 A MMP14 (edge) -33.955860 149.977790 fires A B X X X A A X MMP14 (riffle) -33.955860 149.977790 fires A B A A A X A MMP15 -33.941574 149.893500 A OEM MMP231 (edge) -33.971240 149.966410 A MMP231 (riffle) -33.971240 149.966410 A MMP232 -33.977900 150.014690 B MMP74 -33.938900 149.942400 R/A MMP91 (edge) -33.892160 150.035850 B MMP91 (riffle) -33.892160 150.035850 A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 51

Wetlands Figure C20 shows the spatial extent of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b). The Kowmung River sub-catchment contains the Boyd Plateau Bogs (NSW074) which are wetlands of national importance and listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). The Boyd Plateau Bogs (including Little Dingo Swamp, Wheengee Whungee Swamps, Little Morong Bog and Roly Whalans Swamp) form part of the endangered ecological community (EEC) known as the Montane Peatlands and Swamps (HNCMA 2008c). Previous grazing history may have affected the rare plants of the Boyd Plateau Bogs (Environment Australia 2001). Limited information was available on the current condition of swamps in the Kowmung Catchment.

Figure C20: Location of the Boyd Plateau Bogs and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Kowmung River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 52

Lake Burragorang

Figure C21: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C21 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment.

Appendix C 53

Pressures The Lake Burragorang sub-catchment is considered to be under a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a) due to its significantly altered environment and altered ecology as a result of the construction and filling of Lake Burragorang. Only a small volume of water is licensed to be extracted by water access licences and there are a small number of farm dams and groundwater bores in the sub- catchment, suggesting that surface and ground water extraction are not major pressures in this sub-catchment (DECC 2007). There are a small number of sites of pollution or potential contamination, but a large number of mines and quarries in the medium, high and very high risk categories in this sub-catchment. Derelict mines at Yerranderie potentially affect water quality in the Tonalli River (DECC 2007). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. The Lake Burragorang sub-catchment has a very low population.

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment are shown in Figure C22. The main categories of land use in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (90% of catchment area) followed by areas of natural water and wetlands (8%).

Water availability

Surface water flow Flows from the major river inflows to Lake Burragorang are measured in the: Coxs River at Kelpie Point (see Mid Coxs River sub-catchment); Wollondilly River at Joorilands (see Wollondilly River sub-catchment); Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing (see Nattai River sub-catchment); and Werri Berri Creek at Werombi (see Werri Berri Creek sub-catchment). In addition, flow data was available for the Tonalli River at one site (see Table C11). The majority of other streams/creeks in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment are not gauged. Level data is also available for a variety of sites in Lake Burragorang but were not analysed for the current audit.

Appendix C 54

Lake Burragorang

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities

Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C22: Landuse in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Table C11: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Lake Burragorang sub- catchment

Date Long 2001– 2004– 2007– Station Site records term- 2004 2007 2010 number name commenced median median median median 2122996 Tonalli 01/07/2003 8.728 11.668 8.033 4.148 River at Fire Road W2 (site no. 2)

During the current audit period, the median flow in the Tonalli River at Fire Road W2 (site no. 2) was lower than the median flow in the period 2004–2007. Only limited data were available for the 2001–2004 period because gauging commenced in July 2003 and the Tonalli River was not flowing due to prolonged drought conditions. Under drought conditions the Tonalli River can, at times, dry up with water only available in a few of the deeper waterholes. Longer term data is required to provide a context for trends in flows in the Tonalli River.

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Lake Burragorang catchment is undertaken by the SCA at a variety of sites in Lake Burragorang. Fewer long-term data are available for the rivers and creeks in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment.

River Water Quality No long-term data were available to the auditor to assess river water quality in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment.

Appendix C 55

Lake water quality The SCA has a number of long-term lake monitoring sites in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment (e.g. DWA2, DWA9, DWA12, DWA27 and DWA 39). During the audit period, median TN, TP and conductivity levels were generally low at these sites. The exception to this generalisation was the Wollondilly Arm of Lake Burragorang (DWA39) which had relatively high TP levels (median=0.025 mg/L). The median level for TP at DWA39 was above the ANZECC guideline level for freshwater lakes and reservoirs (although the sample size was relatively small; n=6). During the audit period, median chlorophyll a levels were moderate, ranging from 3.9 µg/L at DWA12 to 5.2 µg/L at DWA2. This latter result is potentially influenced by the algal bloom that persisted on Lake Burragorang throughout much of 2007.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment were available for seven (7) sites over the last decade (Figure C23 and Table C12). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Two of these sites (28.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Five of these sites (71.4%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, MMP01 (edge habitat only) and MMP02 (edge and riffle habitats), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at MMP01 have often been limited due to the site being without water: AusRivAs ratings of Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference) were recorded in 2005 and 2008 respectively. AusRivAs scores at MMP02 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired); Band A (Similar to Reference) or no assessment possible due to the site being dry. The latest AusRivAs ratings (2008) at both MMP01 and MMP02 were in the Band A category.

Appendix C 56

Figure C23: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 57

Table C12: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 23035 (edge) -34.094070 150.232980 B 23035 (edge) -34.094070 150.232980 A MMP01 -34.116140 150.185270 fires dry dry dry B dry dry A dry MMP02 (edge) -34.103530 150.266750 fires B B B A dry dry A dry MMP02 (riffle) -34.103530 150.266750 B dry dry dry MMP126 -34.095330 150.228310 B MMP251 -34.118200 150.313410 B MMP46 -34.021944 150.391666 MMP47 -34.104722 150.350000 MMP59 -33.911663 150.358336 dry dry MMP75 -34.126150 150.235500 dry B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 58

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C24. Major wetland types include the Blue Mountains – Shoalhaven Hanging Swamp, Burragorang River Flat Forest and Tableland Swamp Forest. Limited information was available on the condition of these wetlands.

Figure C24: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Lake Burragorang sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 59

Werriberri Creek

Figure C25: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment. Note: Sites identified in Figure C25 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 60

Pressures The Werriberri Creek catchment was considered to be under a high level of stress (SCA 2007a) with nutrients and faecal coliforms contributing to poor water quality. Most of the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment is in the SCA Special Areas. Large areas of land in the north of the sub-catchment, immediately surrounding Lake Burragorang, are classified Schedule 1 Special Area, including large areas of the Burragorang State Conservation Area. Schedule 2 Special Areas in the sub- catchment include the large forested areas of the Burragorang State Conservation Area, as well as forested areas surrounding Werriberri, Horse and Back creeks. There are many land uses in the catchment including extensive grazing areas, dairy, large areas of intensive animal production (horse studs), as well as areas of irrigated horticulture (vineyards) (DECC 2007). Urban areas include the townships of Oakdale and The Oaks which have recently been sewered. There are also significant areas of rural residential development. There are a moderate number of mines and quarries in this sub-catchment (SCA 2007a) Threats to the rivers in the sub-catchment include urban runoff and nutrient input from unsewered properties. The failed weir on Timothy Lacy Lane, The Oaks, is creating bed and bank erosion, and the Oaks Airport is adjacent to the creek (HNCMA 2008d). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Werriberri Creek sub- catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. One of the major potential future pressures is likely to be an increase in residential development since parts of the sub-catchment are now sewered.

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land use categories in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C26. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (56%), grazing and improved pastures (25 %) and urban and rural residential areas (10%).

Appendix C 61

Werriberri Creek

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C26: Land use in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent data on flow was available from Werriberri Creek at the Werombi gauge (Table C13). Table C13: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment

Date records Long 2001– 2004– 2007– Station Site commen term- 2004 2007 2010 number name ced median median median median 212244 Werriberri 01/06/1988 3.003 1.215 2.399 1.372 Ck at Werombi 568051 Oakdale 05/06/1981 0 0 0 0 Rain Mean=2.6 Mean=1.7 Mean=2.4 Mean=2.4 Gauge 48 29 88 17

During the audit period the median flow in Werriberri Creek was lower than the long- term median and lower than median flows in the 2004–2007 period. There was also an increase in the frequency of no flow days compared to both the long-term average

Appendix C 62

and the previous 6 years (2001–2004 and 2004–2007 periods). Long-term records indicated Werriberri Creek at Werombi ceased to flow on less than 10% of days. During the current audit period, Werriberri Creek at Werombi ceased to flow on approximately 25% of days. Analysis of rainfall data at Oakdale (Stn 568051) generally indicated slightly higher rainfall during the audit period (similar to the long- term rainfall percentiles) than the 2001–2004 period. The potential discrepancies in flow when compared to rainfall require further assessment. It is noted that the previous audit (DECC 2007) identified a new extraction licence for the Werriberri Creek catchment.

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality A variety of organisations have been involved in monitoring in the Werriberri Creek catchment in the past (e.g. SCA, Sydney Water (and its predecessor organiations: Water Board and MWSDB) and DECCW). Long-term water quality monitoring in the Werriberri Creek catchment appears to be limited to one SCA site (Werriberri Creek at Werombi: E531). Median TN levels in Werriberri Creek at Werombi were relatively high (median=0.415 mg/L) during the current audit period. The majority of TN levels measured in Werriberri Creek were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level had previously been higher (median=0.87 mg/L in 2001–2004), however median levels have declined since this time. Further data is required to assess whether this decline is significant and will be continued into the future. The median TP level in Werriberri Creek at Werombi was relatively high (median=0.018 mg/L) during the current audit period. The majority of TP levels were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. These median phosphorus levels were similar to what had been measured over the previous 6 years (2001–2004 and 2004–2007 periods). Median conductivity levels in Werriberri Creek at Werombi were relatively low (median=0.277 mS/cm) during the current audit period. The 80th percentile of measured conductivity levels was above ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers.

Lake water quality There are no long-term monitoring sites in the Werriberri Creek arm of Lake Burragorang.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Werriberri sub-catchment were available from eight (8) sites over the last decade (Figure C27 and Table C14). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA, and DECCW monitoring programs. Three of these sites (37.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (12.5) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C).

Appendix C 63

Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C14. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, MMP03 (edge and riffle habitat) and MMP57 (edge only) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at these sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP03 (2009) was Band A and Band B at MMP57 (2009).

Appendix C 64

Figure C27: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 65

Table C14: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 HAWK524 (edge) -33.980500 150.557900 X HAWK524 (riffle) -33.980500 150.557900 X MMP03 (edge) -33.979360 150.559220 fires A A B A A A A A MMP03 (riffle) -33.979360 150.559220 fires A A A B A A A MMP103 -34.077050 150.535370 A C MMP127 -34.107930 150.550090 B MMP235 -34.061550 150.572240 B MMP45 -33.929400 150.548650 B MMP57 -34.089070 150.561160 A A A C B A A B B MMP81 -33.965550 150.566150 dry A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 66

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C28. Major wetland types include Cumberland River Flat Forest and Sandstone Riparian Scrub. Limited information exists on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment.

Figure C28: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Werriberri Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 67

Little River

Figure C29: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Little River sub-catchment. Note: Sites identified in Figure C29 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Little River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 68

Pressures The Little River sub-catchment is considered to have a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). The headwaters of Little River and its tributaries arise near Hilltop in the Bargo State Conservation Area from where it flows through a sandstone gorge to its confluence with the Nattai River just upstream of Lake Burragorang. A major tributary, Blue Gum Creek, flows from the Thirlmere Lakes which are wetlands of national significance and listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia (Environment Australia 2001). The sub-catchment is part of the Warragamba Special Area. Management of the area is shared by the SCA and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (HNCMA 2008e). An intense fire burnt much of the Little River catchment in 2001– 2002. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Little River to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. Water quality was identified as being good (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Little River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C30. The main land use in the Little River sub-catchment is conservation and natural areas which occupies 95 % of the sub-catchment area.

Little River

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas

Figure C30: Landuse in the Little River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 69

Water availability

Surface water flow Up until recently data on flow was available from the Little River at Fire Road W4I gauge (Table C15). This gauge was burnt during the 2001–02 fires and a temporary gauge/trailer was put in place as a replacement. There were no records for flow available from this site during the current audit period. Table C15: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Little River sub-catchment.

Date Long 2001– 2004– 2007– Station Site records term- 2004 2007 2010 number name commenced median median median median 2122809 Little River 21/08/1990 5.504 12.329 12.733 NA at Fire Road W4I

As noted above, there were no records for flow available in the Little River sub- catchment during the audit period and as a consequence no assessments of recent flows in the Little River sub-catchment can be made. The effects of the intense fire which burnt much of the Little River catchment in 2001–2002 is potentially reflected in the flow results from previous periods (particularly the 2001–2004 period). Flows in the 2004–2007 period were similar to the long term average at this site, with the exception of relatively fewer low flows (Appendix F). It is recommended that the SCA re-instate a permanent flow gauging station in the Little River sub-catchment so that longer-term trends in flow can be assessed in the future.

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Little River catchment is undertaken by the SCA at Little River at Fire Road W4I (site E243). Median TN levels in Little River at Fire Road W4I were low (median=0.1 mg/L) during the audit period. Almost all TN levels measured in the Little River were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. This was similar to the median TN level in the previous period (2004–2007). TN levels were higher in the 2001–2004 period (median=0.35 mg/L), potentially as a result of the 2001–2002 fires. Median TP levels in Little River at Fire Road W4I were low (median=0.005 mg/L) during the current audit period. Almost all TP levels measured in the Little River were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. This was similar to the median TP level in the previous period (2004–2007). TP levels were higher in the 2001–2004 period (median=0.012 mg/L) again potentially as a result of the 2001–2002 fires. Median conductivity levels in Little River at Fire Road W4I were low (median=0.136 mS/cm) during the audit period and all levels measured met ANZECC guideline levels for upland rivers.

Appendix C 70

Lake water quality Thirlmere Lakes are found within the Thirlmere Lakes National Park at the upper end of the Little River sub-catchment. No water quality data were available to the auditor for Thirlmere Lakes.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Little River sub-catchment was available for seven (7) sites over the last decade (Figure C31 and Table C16). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Three of these sites (42.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (57.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C16. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites MMP04 (edge habitat only) and MMP05 have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating was Band B at MMP04 (2007) and Band A at MMP05 (2009).

Wetlands The Little River sub-catchment contains the Thirlmere Lakes wetlands which are listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). Figure C32 shows the location of these lakes and other wetland types within the Little River sub-catchment. The Thirlmere Lakes are contained within Thirlmere Lakes National Park which forms part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. The Thirlmere Lakes are located approximately 10 km south west of Picton within a deeply entrenched valley meander which is ‘perched’ above the Burragorang Valley to the west and the Cumberland Basin to the east. The lakes formed after the drainage pattern of the original river was disrupted due to tectonic down warping which elevated the meander relative to the surrounding land surface (NPWS 1997). The HNCMA (2008e) identified the Thirlmere Lakes complex as five reed-fringed freshwater lakes, abundant with waterbirds and surrounded by quiet patches of forest. These Lakes were suggested to be among the last undisturbed lake systems near Sydney, having ‘enormous scientific value’(HNCMA 2008e) . The lakes have extensive aquatic flora, including the sedge, Lepironia articulata, which reaches its southern limit of its range in Thirlmere Lakes (Environment Australia 2001). Recent concerns have been raised regarding declines in water levels in Thirlmere Lakes (ABC (2010); see Chapter 5 Volume 1 Main Report).

Appendix C 71

Figure C31: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Little River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Little River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 72

Table C16: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Little River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 HAWK118 (edge) -34.154100 150.445600 A HAWK118 (riffle) -34.154100 150.445600 A HAWK13 (edge) -34.157600 150.442200 A HAWK13 (riffle) -34.157600 150.442200 C MMP04 -34.215200 150.489380 fires B A B B B B OEM dry MMP05 (edge) -34.189190 150.465940 fires A A A A A B B A MMP05 (riffle) -34.189190 150.465940 A X B A MMP129 -34.313780 150.511600 B MMP237 -34.148840 150.448270 A MMP58 -34.261940 150.512200 A B B MMP89 -34.272590 150.516060 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 73

Figure C32: Location of the Thirlmere Lakes (NSW091) and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Little River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 74

Nattai River

Figure C33: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Nattai River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C33 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Nattai River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 75

Pressures The Nattai River sub-catchment is considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Nutrients, suspended solids and metals are potentially sourced from Mittagong (Braemar) STP, township and rubbish tip. The sub-catchment is mostly bushland reserved either in Nattai National Park, part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, or the Warragamba Special Area. Ninety-eight percent of the length of Nattai River has been classified as near intact, while the remainder is considered degraded due to the urban development in the headwaters at the town of Mittagong. The Mittagong (Braemar) STP discharges into Iron Mines Creek which then flows into Gibbergunyah Creek, a tributary of the Nattai River. Mittagong swimming pool, a small dam on the golf course and an historic low level weir, are in-stream structures that are affecting flows through the creek (HNCMA 2008f). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified Braemar STP as contributing a very high pathogen source rating. Stormwater and on-site systems were identified as contributing to a high phosphorus source rating and moderate suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from increased rural residential development and associated infrastructure (SCA 2007a).

State during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use The major land-use categories in the Nattai River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C34. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (78%) followed by areas of land occupied by grazing and improved pastures (12%).

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 2 gauging stations in the Nattai River Catchment (Table C17). Records during the current audit period generally indicated lower flows in the Nattai River than the long-term average, but flows were similar to the 2004– 2007 period.

Appendix C 76

Nattai River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C34: Land use in the Nattai River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Table C17: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Nattai River sub-catchment

Date Long 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term- 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212280 Nattai River 07/07/1965 19.37 10.088 6.652 6.496 at The Causeway 2122801 Nattai River 12/07/1990 5.275 3.55 3.514 4.205 at The Crags

At the upstream (The Crags) gauging station, median flow during the current audit period were similar to the long-term median with the exception of relatively fewer high flows compared to the long-term percentiles (Appendix F). Flows were generally higher during the audit period than in previous periods (2004–2007 and 2001–2004), although a higher percentage of higher flows were recorded in the 2004–2007 period (Appendix F). At the downstream (The Causeway) gauging station, median flow during the current audit period was much lower than the long-term average. At this station, the median flow during the audit period was much more similar to flows during the 2004–2007 period. In contrast, the median flow over the period 2001–2004 was higher than in the later periods. This appears to be at odds with what was recorded at the upstream gauging station data. The reasons for this apparent discrepancy warrant further

Appendix C 77

investigation. Catchment rainfall records and extractions should be looked at closely to see if they can explain the observed patterns.

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Nattai River catchment is undertaken by the SCA at Gibbergunyah Creek at Mittagong STP (site E203); Nattai River at The Crags (site E206); and Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing (site E210). The median TN levels in Gibbergunyah Creek was very high (median=2.87 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TN levels measured in Gibbergunyah Creek were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was lower than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=4.2mg/L). The median TN levels in the Nattai River at The Crags were also high (median=0.98 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TN levels measured in the Nattai River at The Crags were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period were lower than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=1.06 and 1.2 mg/L, respectively). The median TN level in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing was moderately high (median=0.29 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TN level measured in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was lower than in the previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.4 and 0.7 mg/L, respectively). The median TP levels in Gibbergunyah Creek were high (median=0.09 mg/L) during the current audit period. Almost all TP levels measured in Gibbergunyah Creek were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. Median TP levels during the audit period were similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.1mg/L). The median TP level in the Nattai River at The Crags was also relatively high (median=0.05 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Nattai River at The Crags were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period were similar to those in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.04 and 0.062 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing was relatively low (median=0.005 mg/L) during the current audit period. Almost all TP levels measured in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing were within the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the 2004–2007 period was slightly higher (median=0.01 mg/L) than in the current audit period. This level was similar to historic levels at this site. The median TP level during the 2004–2007 period was much higher (median=0.0455 mg/L) than either the current audit period or historic period. This could potentially be related to the 2001–2002 fires in the Nattai catchment combined with higher upstream TP levels. The median conductivity level in Gibbergunyah Creek was relatively high (median=0.363 mS/cm) during the audit period. The median conductivity level measured in Gibbergunyah Creek was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was slightly lower than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.435 and 0.484 mS/cm, respectively).

Appendix C 78

The median conductivity level in the Nattai River at The Crags was also relatively high (median=0.354 mS/cm) during the current audit period. The median conductivity level measured in the Nattai River at The Crags was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to those in the previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.356 and 0.244 mS/cm, respectively). Prior to the 2001–2004 period conductivity levels were lower and generally within ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. This suggests an increasing trend in conductivity levels at this site. The median conductivity level in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing was moderately high (median=0.303 mS/cm) during the current audit period, but the majority of conductivity levels measured in the Nattai River at Smallwoods Crossing were within the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the 2004–2007 period (median=0.306 mS/cm), but higher than the 2001–2004 period (median=0.273 mS/cm). Prior to the 2001– 2004 period conductivity levels were lower. There also is a suggestion of an increasing trend in conductivity levels at this site, but this requires more detailed assessment.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Nattai sub-catchment were available from fourteen (14) sites over the last decade (Figure C35 and Table C18). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Six of these sites (42.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Seven of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites was found to be outside the experience of the model (OEM). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 79

Figure C35: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Nattai River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Nattai River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 80

Table C18: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Nattai River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 22127 (edge) -34.227520 150.350380 A 22127 (riffle) -34.227520 150.350380 A 23006 (edge) -34.443510 150.429380 A 23006 (edge) -34.443510 150.429380 A 23030 (edge) -34.430800 150.401020 A 23030 (edge) -34.430800 150.401020 B E206 (edge) -34.390760 150.425020 A A A A A A A B A E206 (riffle) -34.390760 150.425020 A A A A B A A E210 (edge) -34.142870 150.424820 fires A A A B B B B B E210 (riffle) -34.142870 150.424820 fires A B A B A B MMP135 -34.431060 150.401860 A MMP26 (edge) -34.201140 150.366330 dry B B MMP26 (riffle) -34.201140 150.366330 B MMP80 (edge) -34.443330 150.436940 C B MMP80 (riffle) -34.443330 150.436940 OEM MMP87 -34.417330 150.471440 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 81

Two core sites, E206 and E210 (both with edge and riffle habitats) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs ratings at these sites were Band A at E206 (2009) and Band B at E210 (2009).

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C36. The main wetland types are Riverbank Forest and Burragorang River Flat Forest. Limited information was available on the condition of these wetlands in this sub-catchment.

Figure C36: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Nattai River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 82

Upper Nepean River

Figure C37: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C37 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 83

Pressures The Upper Nepean River sub-catchment is considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). The Upper Nepean River sub-catchment contains four water supply reservoirs including Nepean, Avon, Cordeaux and Cataract lakes. The catchment has pathogen, nutrient and metal sources with impacts from pastoral land uses, including grazing and dairying (SCA 2007a). Most of the land within the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment falls within the Special Areas of the SCA, thus restricting the land use in the sub-catchment. Over 50% of the sub-catchment is native forest, yet there are small areas of agriculture (beef and dairy cattle) and rural-residential development in the headwaters of the Upper Nepean River and the lower reaches of the Upper Nepean and Cataract rivers. (HNCMA 2008g) The lower reaches of the Cataract River, Wongawilli Creek, Native Dog Creek, Flying Fox Creek and a number of smaller tributary streams have been impacted by cracking of the river bed as a result of subsidence associated with longwall mining activities (Krogh 2007). Longwall mining has also impacted a number of upland swamps in this sub-catchment; (DECCW 2009, Krogh 2007). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified on-site systems as contributing to a moderate nitrogen source rating and roads contributing a high suspended solids source rating. Grazing and intensive animal production were identified as contributing moderate to high pathogen source rating, high phosphorus source rating, high to very high phosphorus source rating and a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from increased rural residential development, expanded mining operations and more intensive agriculture (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land use categories in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C38. The main land use in the sub-catchment is conservation or natural areas (86%), followed by grazing or improved pastures (8%).

Appendix C 84

Upper Nepean River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential

Transport and utilities Services or recreation

Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial

Grazing or improved pastures Forestry

Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas

Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C38: Land use in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010.)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 14 gauging stations in the Upper Nepean River Catchment upstream and downstream of the metropolitan dams (Table C19). Many of these sites are influenced by water transfers from the Shoalhaven (via Wingecarribee Reservoir and Glenquarry Cut/Creek to the Upper Nepean River) and by releases from the dams down to Pheasants Nest and/or Broughton Pass weirs. Gauges upstream of the dams which are not affected by water transfers provide an indication of natural flows, although for some of these sites there were often many gaps in the flow records. The Burke River gauge indicated that the median flow into Nepean Dam during the current audit period (7.672 Ml/day) was lower than the long-term median (11.03 ML/day) but similar to median flow in the 2001–2004 period. The median flow in the 2004–2007 period (5.175 ML/day) was lower than the median in the current audit period. In the Avon Dam catchment, the median flow in the Avon River at Summit Tank during the current audit period (2.723 ML/day) was lower than the long-term median (4.526 ML/day). However, the median flow in Flying Fox No. 3 Creek at Upper Avon during the current audit period (0.415 ML/day) was slightly higher than the long-term median (0.328 ML/day). Both gauges had long periods of missing flow data.

Appendix C 85

In the Cordeaux Dam catchment, the median flow in Goondarrin Creek at Kemira Downcast during the current audit period (0.453 ML/day) was lower than the long- term median (1.675 ML/day). This gauge also had long periods of missing flow data. In the Cataract Dam catchment, the median flow in the Loddon River at the Bulli Appin Road during the current audit period (6.456 ML/day) was higher than the long- term median (4.955 ML/day). Median flow during the current audit period was also higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). In response to the extended drought, in 2003 the SCA commenced water transfers from Wingecarribee Reservoir to Glenquarry Cut, Glenquarry Creek and the Upper Nepean River. The effects of water transfers over the intervening period can be seen in the flow exceedance curves (Appendix F). The flow exceedance curves indicate that water transfers were greatest during the 2004–2007 period with median flows in Glenquarry Creek at Alcorns reaching 127.81 ML/day. There is currently an embargo on water transfers from the Shoalhaven and this is reflected in the lack of recent discharges to the Upper Nepean River (see Volume 1, Chapter 5).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Upper Nepean River catchment is undertaken by the SCA at: the Nepean River inflow to Lake Nepean (E601); the Burke River Inflow to Lake Nepean (E602); and the Nepean River at McGuires Crossing (E697). There is limited water quality data for streams that flow into Lake Avon, Lake Cordeaux and Lake Cataract, although given the protected nature of the catchments (i.e. almost wholly within Special Areas) water quality is usually very good. Historic water quality data at a number of these inflowing streams are available in the SCA’s water quality database. Long-term monitoring also takes place in the reservoirs at: Lake Cataract (DCA1); Lake Cordeaux (DCO1); Lake Avon (DAV1, DAV6, DAV7); and Lake Nepean (DNE2; DNE7). Historic water quality data at a number of other dam locations is also available in the SCA’s water quality database.

River water quality The median TN level in the Nepean River inflow to Lake Nepean (E601) and the Burke River Inflow to Lake Nepean (E602) were relatively low (median=0.2 - 0.24 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TN level in the Nepean River at McGuires Crossing (E697) was higher (0.4 mg/L). The 25th percentile of TN levels measured in the Nepean River at McGuires Crossing was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN levels at these sites during the audit period were similar to those in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004– 2007). The median TP level in the Nepean River inflow to Lake Nepean, the Burke River Inflow to Lake Nepean and the Nepean River at McGuires Crossing were all low (median=0.0025 - 0.01 mg/L) during the current audit period. The majority of TP levels measured at these sites were within the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP levels at these sites during the audit period were similar to those in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). The median conductivity levels in the Nepean River inflow to Lake Nepean, the Burke River Inflow to Lake Nepean and the Nepean River at McGuires Crossing were all low (median=0.073 - 0.105 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured at these sites were within the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. Median conductivity levels during the audit period were similar to those in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007).

Appendix C 86

Lake water quality TP, TN and conductivity levels in Lake Cataract, Lake Cordeaux and Lake Avon were all low with only an occasional value above ANZECC guideline levels for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Lake Nepean also had relatively good water quality, although compared to the other dams, levels of TN were slightly higher (median=0.31 mg/L). All conductivity levels measured in the metropolitan dams were relatively low (0.066 – 0.176 mS/cm). These results are generally indicative of very good water quality in the metropolitan dams. Chlorophyll a levels did, however, indicate some issues with algal blooms at times within some of the metropolitan dam storages. During the current audit period, median chlorophyll a levels in Lake Cordeaux at the dam wall and Lake Avon at the Upper Avon valve chamber were above ANZECC guideline levels for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The 80th percentile of chlorophyll a levels was also above ANZECC guideline levels for Lake Cataract at the dam wall and Lake Avon 7 km upstream of the dam wall. Further scrutiny of the species of algae in the reservoirs may be warranted. Relatively low levels of chlorophyll a were recorded during the audit period in Lake Avon at the dam wall and Lake Nepean 300 m upstream of the dam wall.

Appendix C 87

Table C19: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Station Date records Long term- 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 number Site name commenced median median median median Above Nepean Dam 2122341 Glenquarry Creek at Alcorns 06/04/2003 NA 126.258 127.809 1.203 212209 Nepean River at McGuires Crossing 06/02/1970 35.609 23.687 104.442 37.177 2122051 Nepean River at Nepean Dam Inflow 18/02/1990 28.491 27.165 107.535 25.541 2122052 Burke River at Nepean Dam Inflow 19/02/1990 11.030 7.707 5.175 7.673 Below Nepean Dam 212204 Nepean River at Avon Dam Road 24/07/1986 50.829 15.814 20.828 11.102 212203 Nepean River at Pheasants Nest 17/11/1983 0 8.07 242.62 205.9 Mean=293.1 Above Avon Dam 2122111 Avon River at Summit Tank 29/03/1990 4.526 No data 4.990 2.723 recorded Many missing values for flow 2122112 Flying Fox No3 Creek at Upper Avon 27/06/1990 0.328 No data 0.745 0.415 Many missing recorded Many missing values values for flow Below Avon Dam 212210 Avon River at Avon Weir 27/06/1969 1.494 0.74 0.457 9.306 Above Cordeaux Dam 2122201 Goondarrin Ck at Kemira D’Cast 03/08/1991 1.675 No data 1.643 0.453 No Data from 9/94 recorded Many missing to 1/07 values for flow Below Cordeaux Dam 212221 Cordeaux River at Cordeaux Weir 18/07/1990 6.854 7.649 6.867 10.371 Above Cataract Dam 2122322 Loddon River at Bulli Appin Road 09/03/1990 4.955 4.312 3.25 6.456 Below Cataract Dam 212231 Cataract River at Jordans Crossing 09/11/1967 106.83 149.481 77.664 121.618 212233 Cataract River at Broughtons Pass Weir 16/03/1983 0 0 0 0 Mean=106.85 Mean=17.33 Mean=26.402 Mean=17.33

Appendix C 88

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Upper Nepean sub-catchment was available from thirty eight (38) sites over the last decade (Figure C39 and Table C20). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Three of these sites (7.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Twenty one of these sites (55.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Eleven of these sites (28.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Three of these sites (7.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). All of these sites were downstream of the dams. Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C20. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites MMP20 and N935 (both with edge and riffle habitats) have been assessed each year since 2002. AusRivAs scores at MMP20 have predominately been Band A (Similar to Reference) with Band X (Richer than Reference) ratings in 2006 and 2007. AusRivAs scores at N935 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs ratings at both core sites was Band A (2009). Several other sites within the Upper Nepean sub-catchment have been assessed for consecutive years and their AusRivAs results are recorded in Table C20.

Appendix C 89

Figure C39: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 90

Table C20: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 23020 (edge) -34.287360 150.895320 A 23020 (edge) -34.287360 150.895320 A 23070 (edge) -34.477190 150.534100 A 23070 (riffle) -34.477190 150.534100 B 23123 -34.525320 150.582110 X BWN1 (edge) -34.512500 150.524440 B BWN1 (riffle) -34.512500 150.524440 B DCA3 (edge) -34.286280 150.899361 B B A B B A DCA3 (edge) -34.286280 150.899361 B B A C A E602 (edge) -34.419444 150.596389 B B A B A A E6133 (edge) -34.389610 150.826820 B A B A A A E6133 (edge) -34.389610 150.826820 A A A X A E6133 (riffle) -34.389610 150.826820 B E615 (edge) -34.232222 150.741667 B B C B B B E619 (edge) -34.470556 150.711389 A B A B B A E619 (riffle) -34.470556 150.711389 A A A B HAWK151 -34.406500 150.817500 A HAWK152 -34.407400 150.818600 A HAWK153 (edge) -34.411600 150.801100 A HAWK153 (riffle) -34.411600 150.801100 A HAWK154 (edge) -34.410700 150.802200 A HAWK154 (riffle) -34.410700 150.802200 B HAWKLW01 -34.297290 150.769310 A HAWKLW02 -34.227350 150.755940 A HAWKLW03 -34.386900 150.757470 A HAWKLW03 -34.386900 150.757470 A MMP100 -34.341100 150.726700 A MMP113 -34.307940 150.791640 B MMP115 -34.328070 150.843780 A MMP136 -34.300360 150.793200 X MMP137 -34.510890 150.548490 A MMP20 (edge) -34.476270 150.534300 A B A flooded X X A A MMP20 (riffle) -34.476270 150.534300 A A A MMP248 -34.525590 150.581860 A N886 (edge) -34.260970 150.800194 C B A B B B N886 (edge) -34.260970 150.800194 B B B B C N886 (riffle) -34.260970 150.800194 C B C C N886 (riffle) -34.260970 150.800194 B

Appendix C 91

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 N92 (edge) -34.246840 150.667980 A A N92 (riffle) -34.246840 150.667980 C D C C C B C N93 (edge) -34.243750 150.666330 A A B A B B N93 (edge) -34.243750 150.666330 A B B A A N932 (edge) -34.341944 150.735556 B A B A B A N932 (edge) -34.341944 150.735556 A B B A A N935 (edge) -34.246470 150.666930 A A A A A A C A N935 (edge) -34.246470 150.666930 A B A B B N935 (edge) -34.246470 150.666930 A B B A A N935 (riffle) -34.246470 150.666930 B B B A C B N935 (riffle) -34.246470 150.666930 B B B B N935 (riffle) -34.246470 150.666930 B N935 (riffle) -34.246470 150.666930 B B B N95 (edge) -34.330230 150.627600 X N95 (edge) -34.330230 150.627600 B A A A A A N95 (edge) -34.330230 150.627600 A A A A A N95 (riffle) -34.330230 150.627600 B A N95 (riffle) -34.330230 150.627600 B B B N97 (edge) -34.349581 150.642036 B C B B C C N97 (edge) -34.349581 150.642036 B B B B C R1 -34.455330 150.530166 A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 92

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C40. The main wetland types are Coastal Upland Swamps, Blue Mountains – Shoalhaven Hanging Swamp and Tableland Swamp Forest. Sandstone Riparian Scrub is more common in the river gorges downstream of the dams.

Figure C40: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

A number of swamps in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment have been specifically listed under the Federal Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone listing (DEH 2005). This includes Butlers Swamp, Gallahers Swamp, North Pole Swamp, Rock Arch Swamp and Stockyard Swamp. The majority of swamps in the Upper Nepean River sub-catchment are in good condition due to their protection in the Metropolitan Special Areas. Some swamps (e.g. Butlers and Dahlia Swamps; see Figure C41a) have areas that have been partially cleared in the past for grazing or farming. One swamp in the upper reaches of Lizard Creek has been impacted by alkaline mine water discharge, leading to ‘scalding’ and vegetation dieback in the swamp (see

Appendix C 93

Figure C41b). Remediation works were undertaken in this swamp during the current audit period (SCA Submission 2010; Figure C41f). The Upper Nepean River sub-catchment also has some of the most active coal mining operations within the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment and a number of mining-impacted swamps have been identified:  Drillhole Swamp (see Figure C41c) has experienced extensive gullying and swamp collapse after undermining and the establishment of a knickpoint in the swamp by drilling (Young 1982).  Swamp 18 (see Figure C41d) has subsidence-induced fracturing of the impervious Hawkesbury sandstone beds that underlay it (Gibbins 2003). This has led to altered groundwater levels and moisture content with Swamp 18 desiccated and subject to invasion by species of Acacia not normally found within the swamp.  The nearby Swamp 19 is inferred to have been similarly impacted by mining at Elouera colliery (Krogh 2007) and also remains desiccated.  A number of other mining impacts have been noted in drainage lines in other swamps overlying the Elouera colliery.  Swamp 1 (Dendrobium Area 2; see Figure C41e) has recently been undermined and a significant decline in groundwater levels has been measured. These levels have not recovered post-mining. Based on subsidence predictions, swamps 12, 15a and 15b over Dendrobium Area 3 may be impacted by future mining2 (Cardno Forbes Rigby 2007). The Bulli Seam Project also identified a large number of swamps (55 swamps or almost 25% of the swamps overlying the mine plan) which had the potential to be impacted if the base case mine plan was approved (Bulli Seam Project – see DECCW 2009). BHP Billiton has a swamp monitoring program in place in the Upper Nepean catchment, including piezometric monitoring at a number of swamps. This program should be able to identify whether further mining impacts occur at these swamps.

2 Swamp 15a may not be undermined due to recent changes to the mine plan.

Appendix C 94

Figure C41: (a) Top left – partial clearing at the top of Dahlia Swamp (b) top right – alkaline drainage impacts in Lizard Creek swamp (c) middle left – gully and erosion in Drillhole Swamp (d) middle right – scouring and desiccation in Swamp 18 (e) bottom left – fracturing of bedrock in Swamp 1 Dendrobium Area 2 (f) bottom right – coir log rehabilitation in Lizard Creek swamp

Appendix C 95

Upper Wollondilly River

Figure C42: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C42 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 96

Pressures The Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment is considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Low levels of dissolved oxygen and medium to high phosphorus levels have been recorded and blue–green algal blooms can occur on Pejar Dam. Riparian vegetation in the sub-catchment is highly disturbed. There are no reserved lands in the sub-catchment. Much of the land in this sub- catchment has been historically cleared of its riparian and floodplain vegetation for a significant grazing industry and, more recently, for rural-residential development. The lower reaches near Goulburn are more severely impacted by land-use activities than the upper reaches. There are two reservoirs within the sub-catchment: Pejar Dam on the Upper Wollondilly River and Sooley Dam on the Fenwicks/Sooley River. There are also a number of weirs including Rossi and Marsden weirs. These reservoirs and weirs provide drinking water to the township of Goulburn. There is a significant willow threat, particularly on the Fenwicks/Sooley River (HNCMA 2008h). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified horticulture in the Pejar area as contributing a high to very high nutrient source rating. Stormwater in the Baw Baw drainage unit was identified as contributing to a moderate to high nutrient source rating and moderate suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from increased rural residential development and more intensive agriculture (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C43. Land use in the sub-catchment is dominated by grazing and improved pastures (85%). Conservation or natural areas occupy 6% of the sub-catchment area.

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from one NOW gauging station in the Upper Wollondilly River Catchment (Table C21). Goulburn Mulwaree Council also provided flow data for inflows and downstream flows from their dams and weirs stretching back to September 2006.

Appendix C 97

Upper Wollondilly

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry

Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C43: Land use in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

The current audit period saw a return of increased flow to most of the gauged sites, however, flows were still very low and at many sites there was still a high frequency of cease to flow days. Median flows in Kialla Creek at Pomeroy were slightly higher than the long-term median at this site; however there was a noticeable lack of high flows. Most of Goulburn Mulwaree Council’s flow gauges recorded higher median flows than in the previous period (02/09/2006 – 30/06/2007). Flows at Cardross Weir were the most sustained during the audit period, however the majority of other sites had a high frequency of cease to flow days and at many sites the median flow during the audit period was 0 ML/day (Table C21) (Appendix F). Longer time series are required to put these flows in the context of ‘natural’ flows in the rivers/creeks at these sites.

Appendix C 98

Table C21 Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Upper Wollondilly River sub- catchment

Date Long- 2001– Station records term 2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212040 Kialla Creek 10/06/1979 3.625 1.473 2.001 5.306 at Pomeroy GMC NA NA 0 0.373 Wollondilly (mean=0.68) (mean=1.273) River GMC Pejar NA NA 0 0 Creek (mean=0.246) (mean=0.287) GMC NA NA 0 0.054 Downstream (mean=0.02) (mean=1.44) Pejar GMC NA NA 0.274 5.133 Cardross Weir GMC Rossiv NA NA 0 0 (mean=40.16) (mean=16.16) GMC NA NA 0 0.039 Downstream (mean=0.349) (mean=3.042) Rossi Weir GMC NA NA 0 0.76 Bumana Ck (mean=3.384) (mean=2.448) GMC NA NA 0 0 Sooley (mean=3.911) (mean=1.958) Creek

Ecosystem and raw water quality Few data from long-term water quality monitoring was available for rivers in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment. The closest SCA long-term water quality monitoring sites are in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat (E409; see Wollondilly River sub-catchment) and the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir (E457; see Mulwaree River sub-catchment). Goulburn Mulwaree Council provided data for Pejar Dam, Sooley Dam and Rossi Weir.

River water quality TN levels were not available in the Wollondilly River at Rossi Weir during the current audit period. Total oxidised nitrogen levels during the audit period were relatively low (median=0.005 mg/L), with the majority of levels measured being within ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. Median total oxidised nitrogen levels during the audit period were lower than the previous period (2004–2007; median=0.03 mg/L). Ammonia nitrogen levels appeared relatively high (median=0.05 mg/L), but this result may be influenced to some extent by the detection limit used. Median TP levels in the Wollondilly River at Rossi Weir were relatively high (median=0.04 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Rossi Weir were above the ANZECC guidelines for upstream rivers. Median TP levels during the audit period were similar in the 2004–2007 period (median=0.03 mg/L); however sample size was low (n=4).

Appendix C 99

Lake water quality TN levels were not available for Pejar and Sooley dams during the current audit period. Total oxidised nitrogen levels in Pejar Dam during the audit period were moderate (median=0.02 mg/L), with the median oxidised nitrogen level measured being above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Total oxidised nitrogen levels in Sooley Dam during the audit period were low (median=0.005 mg/L), although the 80th percentile of oxidised nitrogen levels measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median TP levels in Pejar Dam and Sooley Dam were relatively high (median=0.04 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TP levels measured in Pejar and Sooley dams were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Upper Wollondilly sub-catchment was available at eleven (11) sites over the last decade (Figure C44 and Table C22). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (9.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference (Band X). Three of these sites (27.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Six of these sites (54.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (9.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C22. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 100

Figure C44: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 101

Table C22: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 23053 (edge) -34.729080 149.566850 B 23053 (edge) -34.729080 149.566850 B 24008 (edge) -34.617900 149.665200 C 24008 (edge) -34.617900 149.665200 B 24018 (edge) -34.653250 149.667380 B 24018 (edge) -34.653250 149.667380 B 24091 -34.599840 149.557060 B HAWK519 (edge) -34.724800 149.676700 C MMP133 -34.685150 149.584050 A MMP134 -34.680050 149.571260 X MMP252 -34.747680 149.592830 A MMP27 -34.664120 149.524250 X A A X A B OEM X A MMP50 -34.544030 149.578620 A B MMP83 -34.572480 149.629780 B Uwol1 -34.748830 149.658960 A A A B A B A B B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 102

Two core sites MMP27 and Uwol1 (both edge habitat only) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at MMP27 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band X (Richer than Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band A. AusRivAs scores at Uwol1 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band B.

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C45. The main wetland types are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest and Tableland Swamp Meadow. Limited information exists on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment.

Figure C45: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Upper Wollondilly River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Appendix C 103

Wollondilly River

Figure C46: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C46 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 104

Pressures At 2699 square kilometres, the Wollondilly River catchment is the largest in the Hawkesbury–Nepean catchment (HNCMA 2008i) and the dominant source of sediment delivered to Lake Burragorang (CSIRO 2006). The Wollondilly River catchment is divided into two major management zones: the Wollondilly sub- catchment (discussed here) and the Upper Wollondilly sub-catchment (discussed earlier). The Wollondilly River sub-catchment is considered to have a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Urban runoff and treated sewage disposal (to land) from the Goulburn STP are considered particularly important issues. There are many forested areas in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment including parts of the Tarlo River National Park and the Penrose and Wingello state forests. Urban development includes the major townships of Goulburn (which straddles the Wollondilly, Mulwaree and Upper Wollondilly sub-catchments), Marulan, Bundanoon and Exeter. Goulburn has numerous point sources for wastewater including piggeries, stables, stock and saleyards, an abattoir and an STP. The Goulburn STP discharges to an irrigation area adjacent to the Wollondilly River, upstream of Murrays Flat. There are also large areas of rural residential settlement in the Murrays Flat and Paddys River drainage units (SCA 2010b). The Wollondilly River sub-catchment contains significant agricultural lands and associated industries which were developed early in the period of European settlement. Since European settlement the Wollondilly sub-catchment has been significantly altered: riparian and floodplain vegetation have been cleared for grazing; native riparian trees have been replaced with exotic and invasive Willows (Salix sp.); and intact valley fills have been gullied due to changes in vegetation cover and runoff (HNCMA 2008i). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified Goulburn STP as contributing a very high pathogen source rating. Sewers in the Murrays Flat area were identified as contributing a very high pathogen source rating and high to very high nutrient source rating. Sewers in the Paddys River area were identified as contributing a high pathogen source rating. Grazing in the Bangadilly, Eden Forest, Lower Tarlo and Paddys River areas was identified as contributing a moderate suspended solids source rating. Guineacor Creek was identified as contributing a high suspended solids source rating and a moderate phosphorus source rating. Gully erosion in the Eden Forest area was identified as contributing a high suspended solids source rating and a moderate phosphorus source rating. Intensive animal production in the Paddys River area were identified as contributing a moderate phosphorus source rating. Potential future pressures arise from increased rural residential development, mining and more intensive farming practices (SCA 2007a).

Appendix C 105

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C47. The major land use in the sub-catchment is grazing or improved pastures (53%) followed by conservation and natural areas (41%).

Wollondilly River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential

Transport and utilities Services or recreation

Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial

Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C47: Land use in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from 3 gauging stations in the Wollondilly River catchment (Table C23). Records during the current audit period generally indicated lower median flows in the Wollondilly River than the long-term median, but flows were similar to the 2004–2007 and 2001–2004 periods. Over the last 7 years, the flow data for the Wollondilly River at Joorilands is heavily influenced by water transfers from the Shoalhaven system via the Wingecarribee River. At the Murrays Flat gauging station the median flow during the current audit period was lower than (about one quarter of) the long-term median. Median flows were slightly higher during the audit period than in the previous period (2004–2007) but lower than the median flows in 2001–2004.

Appendix C 106

At the Golden Valley gauging station the median flow during the audit period was lower than (about one third of) the long term median. At this station, the median flow during the audit period was much more similar to the median flow during the 2001– 2004 period. In contrast, flows over the period 2004–2007 were lower than in either the later or earlier periods. A noticeable increase in cease to flow days was also recorded at the Golden Valley gauging station during the 2001–2004 period (Appendix F). This was most likely a result of the drought, but river extractions during this period may also need to be considered since a similar increase in cease to flow days was not recorded at the upstream (Murrays Flat) gauging station. Table C23: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment

Date Long 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term- 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 2122711 Wollondilly 17/08/1990 13.775 5.013 3.265 3.975 River at Murrays Flat 212271 Wollondilly 02/01/1974 40.92 13.531 9.175 13.479 River at Golden Valley 212270 Wollondilly 15/12/1961 231.71 63.66 291.664 241.73 River at Jooriland

At the Jooriland gauging station the median flow during the audit period was similar to the long term median flow. The median flow during the 2004–2007 period was slightly higher than the long term median flow. The median flow during the 2001– 2004 period was much lower than the long term median flow with an obvious increase in the number of cease to flow days. These results, relative to the upstream gauges, help illustrate the effect of the Shoalhaven transfers which have effectively helped maintain flows in this section of the Wollondilly River (and down to Lake Burragorang). This is especially true for the medium-level flows. A moratorium on transfers from the Shoalhaven is currently in place and this is expected have a major influence on flows in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands in the future (especially in the absence of significant rainfall in the Wollondilly catchment).

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment is undertaken by the SCA at Murrays Flat (site E409); Golden Valley (site E450); and Joorilands (site E488). The median TN level in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat was high (median=0.72 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TN levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was lower than in the previous two periods (2001– 2004 and 2004–2007; median=1.05-1.06 mg/L). The median TN level in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley was also high (median=0.77 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TN levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland

Appendix C 107

rivers. The median TN levels during the audit period was similar to or slightly higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.53 and 0.725 mg/L, respectively). The median TN level in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands was high (median=0.6 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TN levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to or slightly less than the previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.48 and 0.9 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat was relatively high (median=0.066 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was much lower than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.413 and 0.11 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley was also relatively high (median=0.034 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was similar to or slightly higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.015 and 0.03 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands was relatively high (median=0.03 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was in-between those recorded over the previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.019 and 0.065 mg/L, respectively). The median conductivity level in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat was high (median=0.693 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Murrays Flat were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was inbetween those recorded in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004– 2007; median=0.963 and 0.431 mS/cm, respectively). The median conductivity level in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley was relatively high (median=0.3 mS/cm) during the current audit period. Most conductivity levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Golden Valley were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was lower than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.4515 and 0.577 mS/cm respectively). The median conductivity level in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands was low (median=0.194 mS/cm) during the current audit period. Most conductivity levels measured in the Wollondilly River at Joorilands were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to or slightly less than the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.341 and 0.172 mS/cm, respectively).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Wollondilly sub-catchment was available from twenty three (23) sites over the last decade (Figure C48 and Table C24).

Appendix C 108

Macroinvertebrate data were primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of the sites (4.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Seven of these sites (30.4%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Nine of these sites (39.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Five of these sites (21.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). One of these sites was found to be outside the experience of the model (OEM). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C24. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, A6 and E488 (both edge habitats only), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at these sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating was Band B at A6 (2009) and Band A at E488 (2009).

Appendix C 109

Figure C48: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 110

Table C24: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 22130 (edge) -34.187740 150.299440 B 22130 (riffle) -34.187740 150.299440 B 23065 (riffle) -34.299950 150.259510 A 23065 (edge) -34.299950 150.259510 B 23147 -34.668370 149.893130 C 23148 (edge) -34.506990 149.917340 A 23148 (edge) -34.506990 149.917340 A 24028 (edge) -34.614960 149.807300 A 24028 (edge) -34.614960 149.807300 B 24029 (edge) -34.596820 149.760920 C 24029 (edge) -34.596820 149.760920 C 24040 (edge) -34.230990 149.960620 C 24040 (riffle) -34.230990 149.960620 C 24044 -34.501980 149.811620 A A6 -34.605360 149.801260 A A B C OEM B A A B E409 -34.721420 149.796040 B E488 -34.226340 150.254120 fires A A OEM B A A B A HAWK101 -34.297900 149.973700 B HAWK103 -34.467800 150.010500 A HAWK110 (edge) -34.316200 149.959200 A HAWK110 (riffle) -34.316200 149.959200 A HAWK904 (edge) -34.309200 149.952400 B HAWK904 (riffle) -34.309200 149.952400 A HAWK905 (edge) -34.309700 149.967600 A HAWK905 (riffle) -34.309700 149.967600 B MMP112 -34.432780 149.983760 B MMP130 -34.593480 150.116830 X MMP208 -34.531040 149.742650 B

Appendix C 111

Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 MMP225 (edge) -34.348180 150.076430 A MMP225 (riffle) -34.348180 150.076430 A MMP226 -34.465760 150.010740 A MMP227 (edge) -34.393600 149.834440 OEM MMP227 (riffle) -34.393600 149.834440 C MMP85 -34.680360 149.898180 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 112

Wetlands Figure C49 shows the location of swamps and wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b).The Wollondilly River sub-catchment contains the Paddys River Swamps, including Long, Hanging Rock, Mundego and Stingray Swamps (NSW082) which are swamps of national importance and are listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). The Paddys River wetlands are identified as an endangered ecological community (EEC) and are included in the Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone (DSEWPaC 2010) and Montane peatlands and swamps of the New England Tableland, NSW North Coast, Sydney basin, South East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian Alps regions (DECCW 2008) listings. As part of the Wetlands Management Program (WCA 2008a), a draft plan of management has been prepared for the Paddys River Wetlands (WCA 2008a). Some swamps in the Wollondilly River sub-catchment have been subject to impacts in the past. Long Swamp on a tributary of the Paddy’s River system has previously been mined for peat and peaty sediments (Environment Australia 2001). Stingray Swamp is surrounded by pine plantations and is located within the Stingray Swamp Flora Reserve. The natural condition of Stingray Swamp is threatened by exotic weed invasion including Blackberry (Rubus fruiticosus) and Radiata Pine (Pinus radiata), (Environment Australia 2001). During the current audit period the HNCMA funded a weed control program in Stingray Swamp. The HNCMA also constructed gully erosion control structures in Junction Creek swamp in the Tarlo River catchment (Figure C49b). Prior to this work there had been an active area of gully erosion threatening to destroy the swamp.

Figure C49b: Gully erosion control structures in Junction Creek swamp in the Tarlo River catchment

Appendix C 113

Figure C49: Location of Long Swamp (NSW082) and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Wollondilly River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a).

Physical form The Wollondilly River sub-catchment contains a rare river channel type, the ‘Meandering lateral’ type, which is of high environmental significance due to its rarity (HNCMA 2008i).

Appendix C 114

Mulwaree River

Figure C50: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C50 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 115

Pressures The Mulwaree River sub-catchment is considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Organic pollution from various potential sources include agricultural runoff, treated sewage discharge and a more intensive agricultural industry in the area. Riparian vegetation in the catchment is highly disturbed. The Mulwaree catchment is a broad alluvial valley that has undergone significant clearing of both the riparian and floodplain vegetation. There is some urban development with Goulburn city which is located on the northern edge of the sub- catchment. The sub-catchment supports a significant rural industry. The major rivers in this sub-catchment are the Mulwaree River and Quialigo Creek (HNCMA 2008j). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified intensive animal production in Run O Waters Creek and Terrana areas as producing a moderate phosphorus source rating. Grazing in the Gundary Creek and Mid Mulwaree River contributed to a high phosphorus source rating and a moderate suspended solids source rating. Landfills in the Lower Mulwaree River area contributed to a moderate to high nutrient source rating. Stormwater in the Lower Mulwaree River area contributed to a high to very high nutrient source rating and a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from more intensive agriculture (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C51. Land use in the sub-catchment is dominated by grazing and improved pastures (78%) and conservation or natural areas (11%).

Mulwaree River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C51: Land use in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 116

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir (Table C25). Table C25: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment

2001– 2004– 2007– Station Date records Long-term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 2122725 Mulwaree 07/06/1990 0 0 0 0 River at (mean= (mean= (mean= (mean= The 42.04) 7.692) 19.64) 7.488) Towers The median flow in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir in all periods was 0 ML/day (i.e. no flow on at least 50% of days). This is a result of stream geomorphology (Chain of Ponds river type) as well as relatively low average rainfall in the Mulwaree catchment (mean annual rainfall at Goulburn Tafe is 638 mm/annum) (BoM 2010). Flows during the current audit period were, however, noticeably lower than the long term percentiles (Appendix F). The long term proportion of time that the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir does not flow is approximately 0.55 (or 55%) of days. During the current audit period the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir was not flowing for approximately 0.75 (or 75%) of days. Flows during the audit period were similar to the 2001–2004 period. Flows were higher in the 2004–2007 period than in the current audit period (Appendix F).

Ecosystem and raw water quality

River water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the catchment is available from the SCA’s monitoring site in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir (site E457). The median TN level in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir was very high (median=1.415 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TN levels measured in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=1.355 and 1.4 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir was high (median=0.097 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.11 and 0.09 mg/L, respectively). The median conductivity level in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir was high (median=0.778 mS/cm) during the current audit period. The majority of conductivity levels measured in the Mulwaree River at Towers Weir were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was higher than those recorded in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004– 2007; median=0.598 and 0.353 mS/cm, respectively).

Lake Water Quality No water quality data were available to the auditor for Lake Bathurst or the Morass.

Appendix C 117

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Mulwaree sub-catchment was available from eight (8) sites over the last decade (Figure C52 and Table C26). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Five of these sites (62.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Two of these sites (25%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of the sites (12.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Extremely Impaired’ (Band D) Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C26. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, A5 and E457 (both edge habitats only), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at A5 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2008) was Band A: The site was dry in 2009. AusRivAs scores at E457 have historically fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference) but since 2006, E457 has recorded two Band C (Severely Impaired), one Band A (Similar to Reference) and one Band D (Extremely Impaired) The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band D (Extremely Impaired).

Wetlands The Mulwaree River sub-catchment contains Lake Bathurst and The Morass (NSW066) which are of national importance and are listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). Figure C53 shows the location of Lake Bathurst, The Morass and the wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b). Lake Bathurst and the associated wetlands of The Morass are important breeding grounds and a drought refuge for Australian birds. The lake acts as an internal basin with a maximum depth of 7 m (Environment Australia 2001). Past land-use practices, including clearing and grazing have encouraged soil erosion and weed invasion in some areas (Environment Australia 2001). A draft management plan has been prepared for Lake Bathurst and The Morass by Wetland Care Australia for the Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment Management Authority (WCA 2008b). Through the implementation of this project, the HNCMA and Wetland Care Australia (WCA) aim to increase awareness of these priority wetlands, threats, assets and to promote sustainable wetland management on private land (WCA 2008b). Limited information was able to be sourced on the condition of other wetlands in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 118

Figure C52: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Mulwaree River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 119

Table C26: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 A5 -35.017340 149.653130 A A A dry B A A A dry E457 -34.780620 149.707750 B C A B B C A C D HAWK586 -35.019200 149.652300 A MMP114 -35.070080 149.657660 A MMP142 -34.810980 149.743480 B MMP188 -34.856500 149.653780 A MMP189 -34.959000 149.661930 B MMP224 -34.746100 149.738360 A MMP79 -35.083610 149.633890 A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 120

Figure C53: Location of Lake Bathurst – The Morass (NSW066) and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Mulwaree River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Physical form The Mulwaree is a unique sub-catchment in that it has a high representation of the rare Chain of Ponds river channel type (61% of reach length in the sub-catchment is Chain of Ponds). The Mulwaree River has large pools and meanders, while Quialigo Creek alternates between Chain of Ponds and Cut and Fill reaches (HNCMA 2008j).

Appendix C 121

Wingecarribee River

Figure C54: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C54 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 122

Pressures The Wingecarribee River sub-catchment is considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Runoff and sewage disposal from major urban areas such as Bowral township are important issues. The Wingecarribee River is impounded at Wingecarribee Dam and is a critical link in the complex chain that is Sydney's water supply. Water from the Shoalhaven catchment is pumped to Wingecarribee Reservoir (via Fitzroy Falls Reservoir) and the river channel is used for transport of bulk water from the reservoir to Warragamba Dam. Water can also be pumped from Wingecarribee Reservoir to the Upper Nepean River. There are three other weirs on the river between the Wingecarribee Dam and the township of Berrima. Over half of the sub-catchment has agriculture as the major land use, most of which is confined to the upper reaches where water extraction and farm dams are common. Sections of the lower reaches are in reserved lands and the Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve contains an artificially created wetland that is a popular destination for bird- watching. The main urban development is at Moss Vale and Bowral (HNCMA 2008k). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified intensive animal production in the Berrima, Joadja Creek, Kellys Creek and around and downstream of Wingecarribee Reservoir as areas producing a moderate to very high nutrient source rating. Intensive animal production in some of these areas (Kellys Creek and around Wingecarribee Reservoir) also produced a high to very high pathogen source rating. Grazing in Kellys Creek and around and downstream of Wingecarribee Reservoir produced a moderate to high nutrient and suspended solids source rating. Grazing around Wingecarribee Reservoir produced a high pathogen source rating. Stormwater in Mittagong Creek and Whites Creek produced a moderate to high nutrient source rating and moderate suspended solids source rating. Sewers in Mittagong Creek and Whites Creek produced a high pathogen source rating. On site sewerage systems around Wingecarribee Reservoir produced a very high pathogen source rating and high to very high nutrient source rating. Potential future pressures arise from increased urban and rural residential development (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C55. Grazing or improved pastures occupy over half of the sub-catchment (51%), followed by conservation or natural areas (30%) and urban and rural residential areas (6%).

Appendix C 123

Wingecarribee River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C55: Land use in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water Availability

Surface Water Flow Recent flow data was available from 5 gauging stations in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment (Table C27). With the exception of Caalang Creek, all recent gauged flows in the Wingecarribee River Catchment have been affected to some degree by water transfers from the Shoalhaven Scheme. Caalang Creek is upstream of Wingecarribee Reservoir and so therefore better reflects natural flows in this area. Records during the current audit period generally indicated that the median flow in Caalang Creek was similar to the long-term median flow. The median flows in Caalang Creek in the 2004–2007 and 2001–2004 periods were slightly lower than the long term median flows and lower than the flows experienced during the audit period. The median flow in the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge during the current audit period was affected by water transfers. The median flow during the audit period was approximately seven times the long-term median flow. The median flow in the 2004–2007 period was even higher (almost 20 times the long-term median flow). The median flow in the 2001–2004 period was slightly lower than the long-term median flow. The median flow in the Wingecarribee River at Bong Bong Weir during the audit period was also affected by water transfers. The median flow during the audit period was approximately four times the long-term median flow. The median flow in the

Appendix C 124

2004–2007 period was even higher (approximately 11 times the long-term median flow). The median flow in the 2001–2004 period was slightly lower than the long-term median flow. Table C27: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Wingecarribee River sub- catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 212274 Caalang Ck at 27/11/1986 6.977 4.973 5.503 6.285 Maugers 212275 Wingecarribee 09/10/1996 10.378 8.122 203.87 70.253 River at Sheepwash Bridge 212031 Wingecarribee 07/06/1989 21.061 18.32 234.762 77.071 River at Bong Bong Weir 212272 Wingecarribee 22/08/1975 27.304 18.45 223.196 94.025 River at Berrima 212009 Wingecarribee 26/10/1989 45.28 31.55 226.305 114.67 River at Greenstead

Prior to 2001 the long term median for 212275 was 9.02 ML/day. Prior to 2001 the long term median for 212031 was 15.82 ML/day. Prior to 2001 the long term median for 212272 was 24.99 ML/day. Prior to 2001 the long term median for 212009 was 38.95 ML/day.

The median flow in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima during the current audit period was affected by water transfers. The median flow during the audit period was almost four times the long-term median flow. The median flow in the 2004–2007 period was higher (approximately 8 times the long-term median flow). The median flow in the 2001–2004 period was lower than the long-term median flow. Flows in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima during the audit period (and in 2004–2007) did not appear to cease, whereas in previous periods, flows ceased on approximately 0.1 (or 10%) of days [Note in the period 2001–2004 flows ceased on approximately 0.18 (or 18%) of days]. The median flow in the Wingecarribee River at Greenstead during the current audit period was affected by water transfers. The median flow during the audit period was 2.5 times the long-term median flow. Median flows in the 2004–2007 period was higher (approximately 5 times the long-term median flow). The median flows in the period 2001–2004 was lower than the long-term median flow. In 2003 in response to the extended drought, the SCA commenced water transfers from the Shoalhaven to Fitzroy Falls Reservoir and Wingecarribee Reservoir which were then released to the Wingecarribee River (to flow by ‘run of river’ to Lake Burragorang). The effects of these water transfers on flow can be seen in the flow exceedance curves (Appendix F). These transfers are discussed in more detail in Chapter 5.

Appendix C 125

A moratorium on transfers from the Shoalhaven is currently in place and this will have a major influence on flows in the Wingecarribee River compared to the last few years. Flows in the Wingecarribee catchment should return to more natural flow regimes (albeit still influenced by the Wingecarribee Reservoir regulation and drinking water supply to the Wingecarribee LGA). A major project currently being considered by DoP under the Part 3A provisions of the Planning and Assessment Act is the proposed pipeline from Wingecarribee Reservoir to Goulburn to assist Goulburn meet water supply demands during drought conditions. Up to 7.5 ML/day of water is proposed to be transferred from Wingecarribee Reservoir to the Goulburn Water Treatment Plant (WTP) or direct to the Goulburn reticulation system (via Wingecarribee WTP; GHD 2009).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the catchment is available from the SCA’s monitoring site in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima (site E332). Earlier data were available form the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge (site E303). Water quality monitoring also takes place in Wingecarribee Reservoir and at the inflow to Wingecarribee Water Filtration Plant.

River water quality The median TN level in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima was relatively high (median=0.52 mg/L) during the current audit period. All TN levels measured in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN levels during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.7 and 0.84 mg/L, respectively). No TN levels were available during the current audit period in the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge. The median TN levels was relatively high during the two previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.48 - 0.44 mg/L). All TN levels measured in the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima was relatively high (median=0.036 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was slightly higher in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.051 and 0.04 mg/L, respectively). No TP levels for the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge were available during the current audit period. The median TP levels were relatively high during the two previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.021 and 0.023 mg/L, respectively). The median TP levels measured during the two previous periods were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity levels in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima were relatively low (median=0.127 mS/cm) during the current audit period. The majority of conductivity levels measured in the Wingecarribee River at Berrima were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.167 and 0.119 mS/cm, respectively). No conductivity levels in the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge were available during the current audit period. The median Conductivity levels were relatively low during the two previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.092 and 0.103 mS/cm, respectively). All Conductivity levels measured in

Appendix C 126

the Wingecarribee River at Sheepwash Bridge were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers.

Lake Water Quality Median TN levels were moderate in Wingecarribee Lake (0.3 mg/L). The 80th percentile of TN levels measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median TN levels were even higher in previous periods (median=0.4 – 0.61) with the majority of values above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The results during the current audit period suggest a slight improvement in TN levels in Wingecarribee Lake. Median TP levels were relatively low in Wingecarribee Lake (0.0075 mg/L). The 80th percentile of TP levels measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median TP levels were even higher in previous periods (median=0.017 – 0.03) with many values above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The results during the current audit period also suggest a slight improvement in TP levels in Wingecarribee Lake. During the current audit period, median chlorophyll a levels were high in Wingecarribee Lake (10.2 µg/L). All chlorophyll a levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. This is consistent with the persistent algal blooms recorded in Wingecarribee Reservoir over the current audit period. Median chlorophyll a levels during the current audit period were similar to the 2004–2007 period but higher than in previous periods. Median conductivity levels were low in Wingecarribee Reservoir during the audit period (0.088 mS/cm).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Wingecarribee sub-catchment was available from thirteen (13) sites over the last decade (Figure C56 and Table C28). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Seven of these sites (53.8%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (30.8%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two of these sites (15.4%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data were also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre 2001) and these have been included in Table C28. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, U10 and Winge2 (both with edge and riffle habitats), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at U10 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band A. AusRivAs scores at Winge2 have consistently returned Band A (Similar to Reference) ratings. The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band A.

Appendix C 127

Figure C56: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 128

Table C28: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 23001 (edge) -34.602760 150.272930 B 23001 (edge) -34.602760 150.272930 B 23064 -34.586440 150.349460 B 23082 -34.583240 150.257910 C E301 (riffle) -34.579444 150.574167 C E302 (riffle) -34.538889 150.482778 D HAWK587 -34.538800 150.480700 B MMP140 -34.546180 150.363190 C MMP203 -34.599320 150.487850 A MMP250 -34.570920 150.523400 A MMP30 -34.479190 150.192880 A MMP84 -34.529600 150.306020 A MMP88 -34.512300 150.346710 dry B U10 (edge) -34.491120 150.332130 B A B B B B A B A U10 (riffle) -34.491120 150.332130 C B C B B Winge2 (edge) -34.416700 150.192890 A A A A A X A A A Winge2 (riffle) -34.416700 150.192890 B A A A B A A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 129

Wetlands The location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) are shown in Figure C57. Wingecarribee Swamp occurs in this sub-catchment and is listed on the Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia (Environment Australia 2001). Wingecarribee Swamp Wingecarribee Swamp is located approximately 13 km east of Moss Vale in the Wingecarribee sub-catchment in a gently sloping upper catchment valley of the Wingecarribee River. It is located above Wingecarribee reservoir and is the oldest and largest high-altitude peat forming swamp in Australia (HNCMA 2008k). The Wingecarribee Swamp and Special Area were declared under the Sydney Water Catchment Management Act 1998 and is jointly managed by the SCA and DECCW. Management of the Wingecarribee Swamp is achieved through the implementation of the Wingecarribee Swamp and Special Area Plan of Management (WSSAPoM) NPWS, DEC and SCA (2007). The Wingecarribee Swamp ecosystem has been altered by the creation of Wingecarribee Reservoir and by previous peat mining. The peatland was further permanently altered by a massive structural collapse during a storm on 8 and 9 August 1998 (NPWS, DEC and SCA 2007). Nevertheless, the swamp contains a number of complex vegetation types, habitats and species and communities listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995. Two endangered ecological communities (EECs) and seven threatened species are known to exist in the swamp. The SCA provided the following summary for Wingecarribee Swamp:  The SCA have a three-year ecological monitoring program that is looking at the changes in plant communities over time, the health of species and communities and linking vegetation with groundwater and soil moisture. The second year of the program has recently been completed, with the trend analysis to be considered at the end of the third year (2010–11).  Overall, Lysimachia is widespread and seems to be a coloniser, often appearing after willow and blackberry removal. The species seems to have a negative relationship to soil moisture, that is, the wetter the soil, the less of the species is apparent.  The Prasophyllum has only been seen in two of the seven locations in the last year, but at one site. It was the first time since 2004 and another site had a 25% increase in numbers this year.  The Gentian has not been seen since 2004 but it has not been seen at the Hanging Swamp at Penrose (which is not a damaged ecosystem) so perhaps there are climatic influences on the species.  Habitat for the Petalura3 remains in good condition.  Weeds are still seen as the major threat to the native vegetation. The SCA weed control program is increasing the native species richness with all areas now dominated by natives. Since 2000–2001, SCA have treated 98% of the swamp for primary control of willow and blackberry and maintenance across approximately 70%. Approximately $5.3M has been spent since that time on weed control contractors, chemical and environmental compliance monitoring. Significantly more if the SCA staff and project management costs are included.

3 The giant dragonfly (Petalura gigantea)

Appendix C 130

 Some trials into the re-wetting of areas have taken place on an adjoining property that the SCA purchased and within drainage lines of the swamp itself. The SCA found that hay bales degraded very quickly in that environment, and although coir logs were more robust, establishing them securely in the peat masses was difficult. The benefits of impounding water were not significant – water did not penetrate laterally across the peat fissures or extend upstream very far. The view is that the broad scale application of low level, soft engineering structures is not a viable alternative for the swamp.  In addition, a visit from Dr Alan Dykes, an international peat expert, indicated that the dried top layer of the peat, once desiccated, cannot be recovered. He also advised that peat bursts in the UK are not actively remediated but reach a level of stability after about 10–15 years.  The SCA has completed several years of hydrogeological investigation and have some conclusions regarding the movement of surface and groundwater at the Wingecarribee Swamp. The formed channel provides a third of the water to the system with the vast majority of water coming from groundwater mainly from basalt springs.  The SCA has undertaken and continues to monitor a range of research and operational projects to better understand the swamps dynamics and its ability to respond to remediation efforts. Limited information was available on the condition of other swamps in the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment.

Figure C57: Location of Wingecarribee Swamp (NSW093) and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Wingecarribee River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 131

Woronora River Sub-catchment (Georges River Catchment)

Figure C58: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Woronora River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C58 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Woronora River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 132

Pressures The Woronora River sub-catchment was considered to have a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). However, impacts from longwall mining have had a significant impact on Waratah Rivulet and mining is continuing to expand in the catchment. Further impacts on Waratah Rivulet are likely from the recently approved expansion of Metropolitan mine. Longwall mining is also planned under the upper Woronora River (Bulli Seam Project). The environmental stress rating for the Woronora River sub-catchment is therefore considered by the auditor to be moderately high. Most of the Woronora River catchment features native vegetation, but there are small areas of private land in the upper catchment where stock agistment, horse riding and horticulture occur. The majority of the Woronora Dam catchment is a Special Area. Public access is restricted to the picnic areas at Woronora Dam (SCA 2007b). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Woronora River catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. Water quality was identified as being good (SCA 2007b).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Woronora River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C59. Conservation or natural areas occupy the largest area in the sub-catchment (92%) followed by natural water and wetlands (5%).

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 3 gauging stations in the Woronora River catchment (Table C29). Gauges on the Woronora River and Waratah Rivulet upstream of the dam were only installed in February 2007. The median flow during the current audit period was higher in Waratah Rivulet (4.851 ML/day) than in the Woronora River (1.359 ML/day) upstream of the dam. Longer-term data is available downstream of Woronora Reservoir in the Woronora River at The Needles. The median flow during the current audit period at The Needles was higher than the long- term median and higher than either of the two previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). A portion of these higher flows is likely to be due to environmental flow releases from Woronora Reservoir.

Appendix C 133

Woronora River

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C59: Landuse in the Woronora River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Table C29: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Woronora River sub-catchment.

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 2132101 Woronora 21/02/2007 NA NA 0.302 1.359 River Inflow But note the start date in 2007 2132102 Waratah 21/02/2007 NA NA 10.251 4.851 Rivulet But note Inflow the start date in 2007 213211 Woronora 12/05/1992 8.582 10.749 8.59 16.639 River at The Needles

Appendix C 134

Ecosystem and raw water quality The SCA undertakes long-term monitoring in the Woronora River at The Needles (GO515) which is downstream of Woronora Reservoir. Limited monitoring is available upstream of the reservoir, but includes monitoring at the Woronora River inflow (E677) and Waratah Rivulet (E678). No recent data during the current audit period was available for E678, however, data were available from mining companies upstream and downstream of the remediation site within Waratah Rivulet. Some water quality data for Waratah Rivulet in the vicinity of Flatrock Crossing is also available in the SCA’s water quality database. Long-term monitoring also occurs in Woronora Reservoir (DWO1).

River water quality The median TN level in the Woronora River at Woronora Dam inflow was relatively low (median=0.19 mg/L) during the current audit period. The 80th percentile of TN levels measured in the Woronora River at the Woronora Dam inflow was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). During the audit period, there was no data available on TN levels in Waratah Rivulet at Woronora Dam inflow, however median levels in previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007) were low (median=0.08 and 0.2 mg/L, respectively). During the current audit period, the median TN levels in the Woronora River at The Needles was moderately high (median=0.3 mg/L). The median of TN levels measured in the Woronora River at the Needles was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to or slightly lower in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). The median TP level in the Woronora River at Woronora Dam inflow was low (median=0.005 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Woronora River at the Woronora Dam inflow were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). During the audit period, there was no data available on TP levels in Waratah Rivulet at Woronora Dam inflow, however median levels in previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007) were low (median=0.005 and 0.0065 mg/L, respectively). During the audit period, the median TP levels in the Woronora River at The Needles was also low (median=0.007 mg/L). Most TP levels measured in the Woronora River at the Needles were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level measured during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). Conductivity levels were low in the Woronora River catchment with most levels below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers (Appendix G). Dissolved oxygen (% saturation) levels in Waratah Rivulet were, however, often low with many being outside the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers (Appendix G). pH levels in Woronora River at the inflow to Woronora Dam were often slightly acidic (median=5.8 during the current audit period) (Appendix G).

Lake Water Quality The median TN level was low in Woronora Reservoir (0.2 mg/L). All TN levels measured were below the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs.

Appendix C 135

The median TN levels were similar in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). The median TP level was low in Woronora Reservoir (0.005 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured were below the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median TP level measured during the audit period was similar to those measured in previous periods During the current audit period, median chlorophyll a levels were low in Woronora Reservoir (0.8 µg/L). All chlorophyll a levels measured were below the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median chlorophyll a levels during the current audit period were similar to median levels in the 2001–2004 and 2004–2007 periods. Median conductivity levels were low in Woronora Reservoir during the current audit period (0.111 mS/cm).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates from the Woronora sub-catchment was available from seventeen (17) sites over the last decade (Figure C60 and Table C30). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Several sites, including core site G0515, are located in the lower end of the catchment, downstream of the Woronora dam (Figure C60) One of these sites (5.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference (Band X). Two of these sites (11.8%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Ten of these sites (58.8%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Four of these sites (23.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, GO515 and R21 have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at GO515 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band C (Severely Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site (2009) was Band B. The GO515 site is downstream of the dam.

Appendix C 136

Figure C60: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Woronora River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Woronora River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 137

Table C30: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Woronora River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 E677 (edge) -34.150700 150.915767 B E677 (riffle) -34.150700 150.915767 B GO515 (edge) -34.046560 151.006400 B B A C C B B C B GO515 (riffle) -34.046560 151.006400 B B B B MMP101 -34.188110 150.899190 dry MMP139 -34.095290 150.979520 B MMP209 -34.063090 150.996510 B MMP254 -34.118100 150.922110 B MMP53 -34.100330 150.971400 A A R21 -34.196040 150.934530 B A B B X A A B X WON01 (edge) -34.106560 150.947930 A WON01 (riffle) -34.106560 150.947930 B A A B B WON02 (edge) -34.100330 150.971400 A A A A B WON02 (edge) -34.100330 150.971400 B B B B B WON02 (riffle) -34.100330 150.971400 C WON03 (edge) -34.065000 150.994000 B B B C C WON03 (riffle) -34.065000 150.994000 C C C B B WON03 (edge) -34.065000 150.994000 B B B B B WON03 (riffle) -34.065000 150.994000 B B B B WON04 (edge) -34.048063 151.005304 B B C C C WON04 (edge) -34.048063 151.005304 A A C C B WON04 (riffle) -34.048063 151.005304 C B C C Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 138

AusRivAs scores at R21 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired) with two Band X (Richer than Reference) scores in 2005 and 2009. Several other sites within the Woronora sub- catchment have been assessed for consecutive years and their AusRivAs results are recorded in Table C30.

Wetlands The extent and location wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) are shown in Figure C61. Coastal Upland Swamp is the dominant wetland type in the Woronora River sub-catchment.

Figure C61: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Woronora River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

The majority of swamps in the Woronora River sub-catchment are in good condition due to their protection in the Woronora Special Area. Mining has expanded under the Waratah Rivulet catchment in recent times and a number of swamps could potentially be affected (DECC 2009). Swamps in the Woronora Special Areas also have the potential to be impacted by the Bulli Seam Project (DECCW 2009).

Appendix C 139

Extensive gullying has occurred in Flatrock Swamp (Figure C62). Mining reports have indicated a large zone of fracturing extending underneath the lower end of Flatrock Swamp (Mills and Huuskes 2004) and Flatrock Swamp has potentially been affected by changes in swamp bed gradients and altered flow paths (Krogh 2004, Mills and Huuskes 2004). The causal effects of mining, however, were considered circumstantial in nature since knowledge of the system at critical time periods in the recent past was lacking, particularly immediately prior to the bushfires of 2001–2002 (Krogh 2007).

Figure C62: Flatrock Swamp before gullying and collapse (left); and after collapse (right)

Appendix C 140

Shoalhaven Catchment

Appendix C 141

Kangaroo River

Figure C63: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C63 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 142

Pressures The Kangaroo River sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). The Kangaroo River has been affected by a number of sources of faecal contamination including wastewater runoff from agriculture and poorly performing on-site sewage management systems. Most of the Kangaroo River sub-catchment is in the large forested areas of the Morton and Budderoo national parks, Kangaroo River, Barren Grounds, and several smaller nature reserves. There are also significant areas in the Yarrawa, Meryla and Wingello state forests. Waterways affected by urban development include creeks and rivers in the Kangaroo Valley and Bundanoon townships. There are several unsewered villages in the sub-catchment with high peak season populations. The Shoalhaven River and areas around Lake Yarrunga to Kangaroo Valley township, as well as the Fitzroy Falls Special Area, form part of the Schedule 2 Special Areas (SCA 2010c). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified a number of areas in the Kangaroo River catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. Grazing and intensive agriculture were identified to have a moderate to high pathogen source rating, a very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Barrengary Creek. On-site systems contributed a moderate nutrient source rating in Barrengary Creek. Roads contributed a high suspended solids source rating in Barrengary Creek. Grazing and intensive agriculture were identified to have a moderate pathogen source rating, a high to very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Brogers Creek. On-site systems contributed a moderate pathogen source rating and high to very high nutrient source rating in Brogers Creek. Roads contributed a high suspended solids source rating in Brogers Creek. Grazing and intensive agriculture were identified to have a high to very high nutrient source rating and/or high suspended solids source rating in Bundanoon Creek. Landfills contributed a moderate nutrient source rating in Bundanoon Creek. Roads contributed a moderate to very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Bundanoon Creek. Grazing was identified as having a moderate pathogen source rating, high to very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Fitzroy Falls catchment. Grazing and intensive agriculture were identified as having a high pathogen source rating, moderate to very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in the Kangaroo River. Roads were identified as contributing a moderate phosphorus source rating and high suspended solids source rating in the Kangaroo River. Grazing and intensive agriculture were identified as having a moderate to very high nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Yarrunga Creek. On-site systems were identified as contributing a moderate pathogen source rating and moderate to very high nutrient source rating in Yarrunga Creek. Roads were identified as contributing a moderate nutrient source rating and high suspended solids source rating in Yarrunga Creek. Potential future pressures arise from further unsewered residential development (SCA 2007a).

Appendix C 143

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C64. Conservation or natural areas occupy the largest area of the sub-catchment (59%) followed by grazing and improved pastures (26%) and land utilised for forestry purposes (10%).

Kangaroo River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial

Grazing or improved pastures Forestry

Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas

Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C64: Land use in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 4 gauging stations in the Kangaroo River sub- catchment (Table C31). Flow records for the Shoalhaven River downstream of Tallowa Dam are also included here. The median flow in Yarrunga Creek at Wildes Meadow during the audit period (5.902 ML/day) was similar to the long-term median flow (6.404 ML/day). There were however, lower percentiles of very high flows (Appendix F). Median flow during the audit period was higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004– 2007). Similar results were found for Yarrunga Creek at Fitzroy Falls.

Appendix C 144

Table C31: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215233 Yarrunga Ck 15/11/1973 6.404 4.16 3.739 5.902 at Wildes Meadow 215234 Yarrunga Ck 02/03/1983 11.986 8.47 7.885 13.8 at Fitzroy Falls 215220 Kangaroo 07/11/1973 166.29 100.147 98.151 152.769 River at Hampden Bridge 215215 Shoalhaven 20/07/1991 336.55 614.033 155.94 167.23 River downstream of Tallowa Dam

The median flow in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge during the audit period (152.769 ML/day) was slightly lower than the long-term median flow (166.29 ML/day). The lack of high flows was more obvious at this gauging station (see flow exceedance curve; Appendix F). The median flow during the current audit period was approximately 50 ML/day higher than in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). In contrast, during the current audit period the median flow in the Shoalhaven River downstream of Tallowa Dam (167.23 ML/day) was almost 50% lower than the long- term median flow (336.55 ML/day). The median flow during the current audit period was similar to the 2004–2007 median flow, but much lower than the median flow in the 2001–2004 period. At least some of this difference is likely to have been due to increased water transfers and reduced spilling over Tallowa Dam. Climate (lower rainfall in the catchment) may also have contributed to lower flows with the total recorded inflow to Tallowa Dam in 2008–2009 being lower than in any of the previous twelve years (SCA 2009b).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the catchment is available from the SCA’s monitoring site in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge (site E706). Water quality monitoring also takes place in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir (DFF6), Bendeela Pondage, Lake Yarrunga (DTA1, DTA3, DTA8 & DTA10) and at the inflow to Kangaroo Valley Water Filtration Plant (DBP1 and DKV1).

River water quality The median TN level in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge was relatively high (median=0.575 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TN levels measured in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.38 and 0.5 mg/L, respectively).

Appendix C 145

The median TP level in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge was relatively high (median=0.052 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was lower in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.026 mg/L). There is a suggestion of an increasing trend in TP levels (Figure C65).

Figure C65: TP levels in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge (E706) Note the log-scale

The median conductivity level in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge was relatively low (median=0.082 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Kangaroo River at Hampden Bridge were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.075 and 0.082 mS/cm, respectively).

Lake water quality The median TN levels were moderate in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir and Lake Yarrunga (0.3 – 0.31 mg/L). The 80th percentile of TN levels measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median TN level was even higher in previous periods (median=0.4) with the majority of values measured in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir being above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The results during the current audit period suggest a slight improvement in TN levels in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir and Lake Yarrunga compared to previous years.

The median TP level was relatively low in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir (0.005 mg/L). The majority of TP levels measured were within the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median TP level was higher in previous periods

Appendix C 146

(median=0.01 – 0.019) with many values in the 2001–2004 period above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The results during the current audit period suggest a slight improvement in TP levels in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir. The median TP level was relatively low for most sites in Lake Yarrunga (0.005 – 0.01 mg/L). The median TP level was, however, relatively higher in the Kangaroo River Arm of Lake Yarrunga at Bendeela Pumping Station (DTA8; median=0.013 mg/L). The median TP level at DTA8 was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The 80th percentile of TP levels measured at DTA3 and DTA10 were also above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median TP levels have been higher in previous periods, particularly within the Kangaroo River Arm of Lake Yarrunga. The results during the current audit period suggest a slight improvement in TP levels in Lake Yarrunga over previous periods. During the current audit period, the median chlorophyll a level was high in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir (11.1 µg/L). Almost all chlorophyll a levels measured were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. This is consistent with the persistent algal blooms recorded in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir over the current audit period. The median chlorophyll a level during the current audit period was similar to the 2001–2004 period but lower than in the 2004–2007 period. Over the last decade, there appears to be an increasing trend in chlorophyll a levels in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir (see Figure C66).

Figure C66: Time series of chlorophyll a levels in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir

During the current audit period, the median chlorophyll a level was high in Kangaroo River Arm of Lake Yarrunga (9.55 – 10.15 µg/L). Most chlorophyll a levels measured in these areas (DTA8 and DTA10) were above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median chlorophyll a levels at the Kangaroo River and Yarrunga Junction (DTA3) were also elevated with the median (5.7 µg/L) above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median chlorophyll a level at the other lake site (DTA1; 4.9 µg/L) was also close to the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median chlorophyll a

Appendix C 147

level in the Kangaroo River Arm of Lake Yarrunga has been elevated for a number of years (Appendix G). Median chlorophyll a levels at other sites appear to have been slightly lower in previous periods (Appendix G). The median conductivity level was low in Fitzroy Falls Reservoir and Lake Yarrunga during the current (and past) audit periods (0.093 – 0.1 mS/cm) (Appendix G).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment was available from nineteen (19) sites over the last decade (Figure C67 and Table C32). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Two of these sites (10.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Fourteen of these sites (73.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Three of these sites (15.8%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C32. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, E706 and MMP43 (both with edge and riffle habitats), have been assessed since 2001. AusRivAs scores at E706 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band X (Richer than Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at E706 was Band A. AusRivAs scores at MMP43 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP43 was Band A.

Appendix C 148

Figure C67: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 149

Table C32: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Kangaroo River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33131 (edge) -34.626180 150.412540 X 33131 (riffle) -34.626180 150.412540 B E706 (edge) -34.728000 150.521360 OEM A A A A X X A A E706 (riffle) -34.728000 150.521360 A A A X A A A MMP144 -34.722360 150.528790 X MMP180 (edge) -34.687460 150.614990 A MMP180 (riffle) -34.687460 150.614990 A MMP228 (edge) -34.682990 150.529250 A MMP228 (riffle) -34.682990 150.529250 A MMP255 (edge) -34.685400 150.309150 A MMP255 (riffle) -34.685400 150.309150 B MMP42 -34.710990 150.682070 A MMP43 (edge) -34.685530 150.600910 B A B A B B B B A MMP43 (riffle) -34.685530 150.600910 A A A A A B A MMP68 (edge) -34.702780 150.531390 A MMP68 (riffle) -34.702780 150.531390 A MMP92 -34.739140 150.565120 A SHOA01 (edge) -34.685860 150.600750 B A A B SHOA01 (riffle) -34.685860 150.600750 A A A A SHOA24 (edge) -34.698900 150.686500 A SHOA24 (riffle) -34.698900 150.686500 A SHOA503 (edge) -34.728000 150.518600 X SHOA503 (edge) -34.728000 150.518600 A SHOA503 (riffle) -34.728000 150.518600 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 150

Wetlands Figure C68 shows the location of the Budderoo National Park Heath Swamps and the wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b). The Budderoo National Park Heath Swamps (NSW075) are of national importance and are listed in the Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). These swamps lie at the top of the Kangaroo River sub-catchment (Figure C68). The Budderoo National Park Heath Swamps are relatively undisturbed by rural or urban land uses and are assumed to be in relatively good condition. Limited information was available to assess the condition of other wetlands in the sub- catchment during the current audit period.

Figure C68: Location of the Budderoo National Park Heath Swamps (NSW075) and the forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Kangaroo River sub- catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 151

Nerrimunga River

Figure C69: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C69 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 152

Pressures The Nerrimunga Creek sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 75% of the native riparian vegetation has been removed. The SCA identified very large rural residential areas as occurring in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment (SCA 2010d) The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified grazing in Bugiong Creek and Upper Jacqua Creek as contributing a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further decline of riverine environment due to sedimentation from gully erosion, removal of riparian vegetation and dryland salinity. Future pressure may also come from new residential developments (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major landuse categories in the Nerrimunga Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C70. The main land use in the sub-catchment are grazing or improved pastures (42 %), conservation or natural areas (29 %) and urban and rural residential (21 %).

Nerrimunga Creek

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C70: Land use in the Nerrimunga Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 153

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from 1 gauging station in the Nerrimunga Creek sub- catchment (Table C33). Nerrimunga Creek often ceases to flow, with long-term percentiles indicating a cease to flow rate on approximately 41% of days. Table C33: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Nerrimunga River sub- catchment

Date records Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station Site commenc term 2004 2007 2010 number name ed median median median median 215240 Nerrimung 03/12/1994 0.081 0 0.215 0 a Creek at Mean=18. Mean=9.7 Mean=31.8 Mean=5.51 Minshull 48 1 8 1 Trig The median flow in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshull Trig during the current audit period was very low (median=0; Mean=5.511 ML/day). No flow was recorded on approximately 62% of days. The median flow during the current audit period was lower than the long-term median (0.081 ML/day) and much lower than flows during the 2004–2007 period. Flows during the audit period were more similar to flows in the 2001–2004 period (Appendix F).

Ecosystem and raw Water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the catchment was available up until 2004 from the SCA’s monitoring site in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig (site E8361). This site was discontinued as a routine water quality monitoring site. No data were available for either the current audit period or the 2004–2007 period.

River water quality When last measured (during the period 2001–2004), median TN levels in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig were relatively high (median=0.68 mg/L). All TN levels measured in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig during the 2001–2004 period were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. When last measured (during the period 2001–2004), the median TP level in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig was high (median=0.06 mg/L). Most TP levels measured in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig during the 2001–2004 period were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. When last measured (during the period 2001–2004), the median conductivity level in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig was relatively low (median=0.174 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in Nerrimunga Creek at Minshall Trig during the 2001–2004 period were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. No recent data were available to enable an assessment of the current state of water quality in this sub-catchment.

Appendix C 154

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Nerrimunga Creek sub-catchment were available from twelve (12) sites over the last decade (Figure C71 and Table C34). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Two of these sites (16.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Nine of these sites (75%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (8.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre 2001) and these have been included in Table C34. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, E8361 and MMP51 (both edge only habitats), have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at E8361 have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at E8361 was Band A (2009). AusRivAs scores at MMP51 have generally been Band B (Significantly Impaired) with prior AusRivAs scores of Band A (Similar to Reference) in 2001, 2002 and 2005. The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP51 was Band B (2009).

Appendix C 155

Figure C71: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 156

Table C34: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Nerrimunga River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33127 -35.103100 149.881420 B 33140 -35.028430 149.928410 B 33149 -34.998150 149.945460 B 33012 (edge) -34.927920 149.837530 B 33012 (edge) -34.927920 149.837530 B 33033 (edge) -35.056420 149.873480 B 33033 (edge) -35.056420 149.873480 A E8361 -35.008940 149.932770 A A B A B B A B A MMP150 -34.927770 149.940120 B MMP186 -35.106020 149.849450 C MMP192 -35.061430 149.864000 B MMP51 -34.937140 149.844720 A A C B A B B B B MMP52 -35.089920 149.890970 A MMP71 -35.001680 149.889310 OEM B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 157

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C72. Tableland Swamp Flats Forest and Tableland Swamp Meadow were the most common wetland types in this sub-catchment. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C72: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Nerrimunga Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 158

Bungonia Creek

Figure C73: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C73 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 159

Pressures The Bungonia Creek sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Substantial areas of forested lands occur in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment including large areas of the Morton National Park and the Bungonia State Conservation Area. The Bungonia Creek sub-catchment also includes parts of the Shoalhaven Schedule 2 Special Area around the Shoalhaven River and areas around Lake Yarrunga in the Morton National Park. Severe gully erosion occurs in some areas of the catchment. Waterways in urban areas in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment include creeks and rivers within the Marulan township (SCA 2010d). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified STP and sewers in Barbers Creek as producing a moderate pathogen source rating (for the STP) and moderate phosphorus source rating. Grazing contributed a high suspended solids source rating in Barbers Creek. Gully erosion and grazing in Bungonia Creek contributed to a moderate phosphorus source loading and high to very high suspended solids source rating. Grazing in Jerrara Creek contributed a high suspended solids source rating. Relative to its size, Barbers Creek has a high water extraction entitlement (806 ML/year) (see Appendix E). Potential future pressures arise from weed infestations along the banks of tributary streams and further gully erosion. There is also a risk of dryland salinity (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land use categories in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C74. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (63%) followed by areas of grazing and improved pastures (29%) and urban and rural residential areas (4%).

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 2 gauging stations in the Bungonia Creek sub- catchment (Table C35). The median flow in Bungonia Creek at Bungonia during the current audit period was very low (median=0.326 ML/day). No flow was recorded on approximately 15% of days. The median flow during the current audit period was lower than the long-term median (1.028 ML/day) and lower than median flows during the 2004–2007 period. Flows during the audit period were more similar to flows in the 2001–2004 period (Appendix F). Average rainfall at Bungonia (Inverary Park; BoM data for Stn. 70012) during the current audit period (1.46 mm/day) was also lower than the long-term average at this site (1.85 mm/day

Appendix C 160

Bungonia Creek

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C74: Landuse in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Table C35: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment.

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215014 Bungonia 15/04/1981 1.028 0.277 0.324 0.326 Creek at Bungonia 215207 Shoalhaven 15/07/1977 348.6 174.5 132.6 132.7 River at Fossickers Flat

The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat during the current audit period (median=132.7 ML/day) was much lower than the long-term median (348.6 ML/day). Flows during the audit period were very similar to flows in the 2004–2007 period (Appendix F). The median flow in the 2001–2004 period (174.5 ML/day) was higher than the median flow in the current audit period, although flow exceedance curves were similar for the two periods (Appendix F).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Bungonia Creek catchment is available from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on the Shoalhaven River

Appendix C 161

at Fossickers Flat (E847). Water quality sampling also takes place in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga (DTA5).

River water quality The median TN level in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat was relatively high (median=0.4 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TN levels measured in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat were above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN levels during the audit period was lower than the 2004–2007 period (median=0.8 mg/L) but higher than the 2001–2004 period (median=0.3 mg/L). The median TP levels in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat was relatively high (median=0.03 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was much lower than the 2004–2007 period (median=0.084 mg/L) but higher than the 2001–2004 period (median=0.013 mg/L). The reason for the high median TP levels recorded in 2004– 2007 is unclear. The median conductivity level in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat was relatively low (median=0.111 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Shoalhaven River at Fossickers Flat were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.087 and 0.104 mS/cm, respectively).

Dam water quality The median TN levels was relatively low in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga (DTA5; median=0.3 mg/L). The 80th percentile of TN levels measured was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median TN level was slightly higher in previous periods (median=0.34 - 0.4) with the median measured in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga often above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The results during the current audit period possibly suggest a slight improvement in TN levels in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga compared to previous years. The median TP level was relatively low in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga (DTA5; median=0.005 mg/L). The 80th percentile of TP levels measured at DTA5 was above the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. Median TP levels have been slightly higher in some previous periods. During the current audit period, the median chlorophyll a level was moderate in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga (4.9 µg/L). The median chlorophyll a level at DTA5 was close to the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs. The median chlorophyll a level in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga was higher in the 2004–2007 period, but lower in the 2001–2004 and earlier periods (Appendix G). The median conductivity level was low in the Shoalhaven River Arm of Lake Yarrunga during the current (and past) audit period (0.1 mS/cm).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment were available from thirteen (13) sites over the last decade (Figure C75 and Table C36).

Appendix C 162

Macroinvertebrate Data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Nine of these sites (69.2%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Three of these sites (23.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (7.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C36. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, E847 and A8 (edge habitat only) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at E847 was Band A (2009) and at site A8 it was Band B (2009).

Appendix C 163

Figure C75: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 164

Table C36: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 A8 -34.853028 149.943360 B dry B B A B A B B E847 (edge) -34.817500 150.200760 OEM A B A B B OEM B A E847 (riffle) -34.817500 150.200760 A B B A OEM A A MMP148 -34.741780 149.990390 C MMP210 (edge) -34.829370 150.043380 A MMP210 (riffle) -34.829370 150.043380 A MMP229 (edge) 34.809720 149.994967 A MMP229 (riffle) 34.809720 149.994967 B MMP239 -34.784310 150.055710 A MMP48 -34.813250 149.951380 A MMP65 -34.758880 149.968890 A MMP98 -34.717460 150.058700 B SHOA05 (edge) -34.818300 150.198460 C A SHOA05 (riffle) -34.818300 150.198460 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 165

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C76. Riverbank Forest, Blue Mountains – Shoalhaven Hanging Swamp and Tableland Bog were the most common wetland types identified in the sub-catchment. Limited information was available to assess the condition of these wetlands over the course of the current audit period.

Figure C76: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Bungonia Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 166

Boro Creek

Figure C77: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Boro Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C77 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Boro Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 167

Pressures The Boro Creek sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 60% of the native riparian vegetation has been removed. Streambank erosion has been recorded along most of the creek. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified gully erosion in Upper Boro Creek as contributing a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from gully erosion, sedimentation of waterways, dryland salinity and new rural residential development (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major landuse categories in the Boro Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C78. The major land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation or natural areas (42 %) followed by areas of grazing and improved pastures (37 %) and abandoned or degraded land (11%).

Boro Creek

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C78: Landuse in the Boro Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 168

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from one gauging station in the Boro Creek sub- catchment (Table C37). Table C37: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Boro Creek sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215239 Boro Ck at 24/02/1994 4.191 3.243 2.346 2.026 Marlowe

The median flow in Boro Creek at Marlowe during the current audit period (median=2.026 ML/day) was lower than (more than half) the long-term median (4.191 ML/day). The median flow during the current audit period was also lower than median flow during the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long term water quality monitoring in the Boro Creek sub-catchment is available from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on Boro Creek at Marlowe (E890).

River water quality The median TN level in Boro Creek at Marlowe was moderate (median=0.2 mg/L) during the current audit period. The 80th percentile of TN levels measured in Boro Creek at Marlowe was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.17 and 0.3 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in Boro Creek at Marlowe was moderate (median=0.02 mg/L) during the current audit period. The 80th percentile of TP levels measured in Boro Creek at Marlowe was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was slightly higher than in previous periods (2001– 2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.0075 and 0.012 mg/L, respectively). The median conductivity level in Boro Creek at Marlowe was low (median=0.074 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in Boro Creek at Marlowe were below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.0795 and 0.115 mS/cm, respectively).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Boro Creek sub-catchment was available from seven (7) sites over the last decade (Figure C79 and Table C38). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (14.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A).

Appendix C 169

Four of these sites (57.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two of these sites (28.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, E890 and MMP33 (both edge only habitats) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at E890 have generally fluctuated between Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site was Band B (2009). AusRivAs scores at MMP33 were historically Band A (Similar to Reference) but since 2006 this site has scored Band B (Significantly Impaired) and Band C (Severely Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site was Band C (2009).

Appendix C 170

Figure C79: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Boro Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Boro Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 171

Table C38: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Boro Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 E890 -35.230210 149.846820 A B A B B B A B B MMP107 -35.208690 149.797350 B B MMP154 -35.139040 149.743200 B MMP263 -35.247920 149.892250 B MMP33 -35.181540 149.723730 A dry A A A B B C C MMP34 -35.192770 149.789670 A MMP63 -35.184260 149.789830 dry C Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 172

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C80. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub along the Shoalhaven River, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Tableland Swamp Flats Forest. Limited information was available to assess the condition of these wetlands over the current audit period.

Figure C80: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Boro Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 173

Mid Shoalhaven River

Figure C81: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C81 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 174

Pressures The Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment was considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). The average density of gully erosion in this sub-catchment was considered to be high. Mainly forested areas dominate the land in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment. Forested areas include large areas of the Morton National Park and the Nadgigomar, Bees Nest and Jerralong nature reserves. These areas generally have good water quality and natural flows. There are significant rural residential areas in the mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment, as well as small mines and quarries (SCA 2010e). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified grazing in Jerricknorra Creek as contributing a moderate phosphorus source rating and high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further gully erosion and resulting sedimentation, dryland salinity and river gravel extraction (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C82. Conservation or natural areas occupy the largest area extent of the sub- catchment (62 %), followed by areas of grazing and improved pastures (21%) and forestry land (9 %).

Mid Shoalhaven River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C82: Land use in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 175

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from 3 gauging stations in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment (Table C39). Table C39: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub- catchment Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215242 Corang 03/12/1994 18.926 13.431 14.233 14.782 River at Meangora 215004 Corang 08/09/1924 25.44 14.36 17.72 17.12 River at Hockeys 215208 Shoalhaven 07/11/1973 324.0 130.538 78.605 96.406 River at Hillview

The median flow in the Corang River at Meangora during the current audit period (median=14.782 ML/day) was slightly lower than the long-term median (18.926 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than median flows during the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007). The median flow in the Corang River at Hockeys during the current audit period (median=17.12 ML/day) was lower than the long-term median (25.44 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was similar to the median flow in the 2004–2007 period and slightly higher than the median flow during the 2001–2004 period. The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview during the current audit period (median=96.406 ML/day) was lower than (about half) the long-term median (324 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period, but lower than the median flow in the 2001–2004 period. High flows in the Shoalhaven River at Warri were uncommon during the current audit period (Appendix F).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Mid Shoalhaven River catchment is available from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring sites on the Shoalhaven River at Hillview (E861) and the Corang River (E8311).

River water quality The median TN level in the Corang River was relatively low (median=0.2 mg/L) during the current audit period. The 80th percentile of TN levels measured in the Corang River was below the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was lower than previous periods (Appendix G). The median TN level in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview was moderately high (median=0.38 mg/L) during the current audit period. The majority of TN levels measured in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview were above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to previous periods (Appendix G).

Appendix C 176

The median TP level in the Corang River was low (median=0.005 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TP levels measured in the Corang River were below the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was similar to previous periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.005 and 0.008 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview was moderate (median=0.021 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median of TP levels measured in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was similar to or slightly higher than previous periods (Appendix G). The median conductivity levels in the Corang River was low (median=0.054 mS/cm) during the audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Corang River were below the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.05 – 0.052 mS/cm). The median conductivity level in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview was low (median=0.096 mS/cm) during the audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Shoalhaven River at Hillview were below the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. Median conductivity levels during the audit period were similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.094 and 0.104 mS/cm, respectively).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment was available from nineteen (19) sites over the last decade (Figure C83 and Table C40). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Sixteen of these sites (84.2%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Two of these sites (10.5%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C40. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 177

Figure C83: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Note: this figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 178

Table C40: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33008 (edge) -35.254120 149.974120 A 33008 (riffle) -35.254120 149.974120 B 33052 (edge) -35.149780 149.957910 A 33052 (riffle) -35.149780 149.957910 A E8311 -35.145430 150.043170 A A X B B B R/A R/A A E861 (edge) -35.182080 149.953000 B X A B R/A A A A A E861 (riffle) -35.182080 149.953000 B A A MMP 264 (edge) -35.183500 150.020020 A MMP 264 (riffle) -35.183500 150.020020 A MMP159 (edge) -35.204450 150.051560 A MMP159 (riffle) -35.204450 150.051560 A MMP170 (edge) -35.182140 149.953690 A OEM MMP170 (riffle) -35.182140 149.953690 A OEM MMP238 (edge) -35.154670 150.031760 A MMP238 (riffle) -35.154670 150.031760 A MMP35 -35.165610 149.990280 B MMP66 -35.138240 150.067190 B A MMP69 -35.147220 149.956110 X MMP99 -35.235200 150.006700 A SHOA07 (edge) -35.154200 150.030500 A SHOA07 (riffle) -35.154200 150.030500 A SHOA08 (edge) -35.203400 150.050700 B SHOA08 (riffle) -35.203400 150.050700 B SHOA102 (edge) -35.151000 149.956200 A SHOA102 (riffle) -35.151000 149.956200 B Notes: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled. R/A denotes ‘Restricted access’

Appendix C 179

Two core sites E8311 and E861 have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at these sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at both of these sites was Band A (2009).

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C84. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub along the Shoalhaven River, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Tableland Swamp Flats Forest. Limited information exists on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment.

Figure C84: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Mid Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 180

Endrick River

Figure C85: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Endrick River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C85 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Endrick River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 181

Pressures The Endrick River sub-catchment was considered to have a low environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Much of the catchment is conserved in national parks (Figure C86). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified roads in the Upper Endrick River as contributing a high suspended solids source rating.

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Endrick River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C86. The main landuses in the sub-catchment is conservation and natural areas which occupy 88 % of the sub-catchment, followed by grazing or improved pasture land (11%).

Endrick River

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C86: Land use in the Endrick River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 182

Water availability

Surface water flow No recent flow data was available for the Endrick River sub-catchment.

Ecosystem and raw water quality The auditor was not made aware of any long-term water quality monitoring site in the Endrick River sub-catchment. Given its largely protected catchment, however, water quality could be expected to be good.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Endrick River sub-catchment was available from Five (5) sites over the last decade (Figure C87 and Table C41). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (20%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). One of these sites (20%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Three of these sites (60%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two core sites MMP11 and MMP12 have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have consistently rated Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP11 was Band A (2009) and Band X (2009) at site MMP12. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 183

Figure C87: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Endrick River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Endrick River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 184

Table C41: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Endrick River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33142 -35.126470 150.140560 B MMP11 -35.093470 150.077660 A A A A A A A A A MMP12 (edge) -35.086350 150.117340 A A A A B A A A X MMP12 (riffle) -35.086350 150.117340 B A A A B MMP13 -35.119400 150.084340 dry C B MMP151 -35.089160 150.119550 dry B MMP97 -35.053980 150.116730 dry Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 185

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C88. The major wetland types in the sub-catchment are Tableland Swamp Meadow and Riverbank Forest. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit period.

Figure C88: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Endrick River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

The auditor notes the discrepancy between the wetlands mapped by the SCA and DECCW along the eastern edge of the Endrick River sub-catchment. This discrepancy needs to be resolved.

Appendix C 186

Reedy Creek

Figure C89 Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C89 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 187

Pressures The Reedy Creek sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 50% of the native riparian vegetation has been removed. The average density of gully erosion in this sub-catchment was considered to be high. The Reedy Creek sub-catchment has little standing riparian vegetation and large numbers of farm dams. There are also significant rural residential areas in the sub-catchment (SCA 2010f). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified gully erosion in Reedy Creek and Sandhills Creek as contributing a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further gully erosion, sedimentation of waterways and new rural residential development (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major landuse categories in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C90. The main landuse in the sub-catchment are areas of grazing and improved pastures (54 %); followed by conservation and natural areas (30%); abandoned or degraded land (6 %); and urban and rural residential areas (5%).

Reedy Creek

Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C90: Land use in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 188

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from 2 gauging stations in the Reedy Creek sub- catchment (Table C42). Table C42: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215238 Reedy Ck at 18/02/1995 5.19 2.158 0.105 0.137 Manar 215002 Shoalhaven 02/09/1914 177.5 68.282 46.764 79.16 River at Warri

The median flow in Reedy Creek at Manar during the current audit period (median=0.137 ML/day) was very much lower than the long-term median (5.19 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007, but much lower than the 2001–2004 period. Medium and high flows were particularly uncommon during the current audit period (Appendix F). Inspection of the time series plot for flows in Reedy Creek at Manar (see Chapter 5 Main Report) shows a declining trend in flows which requires further assessment. The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Warri during the current audit period (median=79.16 ML/day) was lower than (about half) the long-term median (177.5 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than the median flows during the previous two periods (2004–2007 and 2001–2004). High flows in the Shoalhaven River at Warri were uncommon during the current audit period (Appendix F).

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment was available up until 2004 from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on Reedy Creek at Manar (E889). This site was discontinued as a routine water quality monitoring site. No water quality data was available for either the current audit period or the 2004–2007 period.

River water quality The median TN level in Reedy Creek at Manar in the last period monitored (2001– 2004) was moderate to high (median=0.48 mg/L). The median TN level measured in Reedy Creek at Manar in 2001–2004 was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. Median TN levels in 2001–2004 were similar to earlier periods (Appendix G). The median TP level in Reedy Creek at Manar in the last period monitored (2001– 2004) was low to moderate (median=0.022 mg/L). The median TP level in Reedy Creek at Manar in 2001–2004 was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TP level in 2001–2004 was slightly higher than previous periods (Appendix G). The median conductivity level in Reedy Creek at Manar in 2001–2004 were slightly elevated compared to most other sites in the Shoalhaven catchment, although still relatively low (median=0.152 mS/cm) (Appendix G). The 80th percentile of

Appendix C 189

conductivity levels measured in Reedy Creek at Manar in 2001–2004 was above the ANZECC guidelines for upland rivers. The median conductivity level in 2001–2004 was similar to the previous periods (Appendix G).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment was available from fourteen (14) sites over the last decade (Figure C91 and Table C43). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Seven of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (28.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Three of these sites (21.4%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C43. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, R7 and Reed1 (both with edge and riffle habitats) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired); however, the latest AusRivAs score for each core site (2009) has been Band C (Severely Impaired).

Appendix C 190

Figure C91: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 191

Table C43: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Reedy Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 34082 (edge) -35.183210 149.603460 A 34082 (edge) -35.183210 149.603460 A 34086 (edge) -35.233050 149.623970 C 34086 (edge) -35.233050 149.623970 C MMP108 -35.263940 149.603220 A MMP157 -35.217080 149.665230 A MMP194 -35.288600 149.698280 A MMP217 (edge) -35.342630 149.738090 A MMP217 (riffle) -35.342630 149.738090 A MMP258 -35.360600 149.858500 A MMP32 -35.342410 149.816700 B MMP72 -35.364660 149.817570 B R7 (edge) -35.333960 149.585900 A A B B A A A A C R7 (riffle) -35.333960 149.585900 C B Reed1 (edge) -35.309990 149.759000 A A A A B B A B C Reed1 (riffle) -35.309990 149.759000 A B B A B SHOA106 (edge) -35.439200 149.570200 B SHOA106 (riffle) -35.439200 149.570200 A SHOA570 -35.343600 149.736600 A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 192

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C92. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C92: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Reedy Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 193

Mongarlowe River

Figure C93: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C93 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 194

Pressures The Mongarlowe River sub-catchment was considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Gully erosion, dryland salinity and vegetation clearing (up to 35% cleared) were considered pressures in the sub- catchment. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments.

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C94. The main land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation and natural areas (42%); grazing and improved pastures (31%); forestry (13%); and abandoned or degraded land (7%).

Mongarlowe River

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C94: Land use in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 195

Water Availability

Surface Water Flow Recent flow data were available from 2 gauging stations in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment (Table C44). Table C44: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Mongarlowe River sub- catchment Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215007 Mongarlowe 02/01/1950* 17.997 NA 11.703 12.145 River at Monga 215210 Mongarlowe 08/11/1993 55.61 22.84 18.31 21.944 River at Mongarlowe

* All discharge data has been used for the Mongarlowe at Monga Gauging Station. There are a few years, from 1950–1952, when flow at this site was measured. There was then a large gap in records between 1952 and when records started again in 2004. The median flow in the Mongarlowe River at Monga (Stn. 215007) during the audit period (median=12.145 ML/day) was lower than the long-term median flow (17.997 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period. There is a suggestion that flows were higher in the 1950s (blue line in flow exceedance curve; Appendix F) but this apparent difference needs to be related back to rainfall records at that time. The median flow in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe (Stn. 215210) during the audit period (median=21.944 ML/day) was lower than (about half) the long-term median flow (55.61 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period, but similar to the median flow in the 2001–2004 period.

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment was available from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe (E822).

River water quality The median TN level in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe was moderate (median=0.345 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TN levels measured in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was higher than the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.16-0.2 mg/L). The median TP level in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe was moderate (median=0.037 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was higher than medians in the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.01 – 0.011 mg/L). The median conductivity level in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe was low (median=0.05 mS/cm) during the current audit period. All conductivity levels measured in the Mongarlowe River at Mongarlowe were below the ANZECC

Appendix C 196

guideline for upland rivers. The median conductivity level during the audit period was similar to the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.046 and 0.049 mS/cm, respectively).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment was available from fifteen (15) sites over the last decade (Figure C95 and Table C45). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (6.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Twelve of these sites (80%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Two of these sites (13.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two core sites, Mong1 and R13 (both with edge and riffle habitat) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores have been consistently Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at both core sites was Band A (2009). There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 197

Figure C95: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 198

Table C45: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33051 (edge) -35.261460 149.913710 B 33051 (edge) -35.261460 149.913710 B E822 -35.421944 149.936389 X MMP 272 -35.621800 149.910500 A MMP106 -35.468240 149.929730 A MMP160 -35.490940 149.923530 A MMP162 -35.430350 149.968430 A MMP216 -35.384360 149.927330 A MMP70 (edge) -35.416510 149.967410 A MMP70 (riffle) -35.416510 149.967410 B Mong1 (edge) -35.251230 149.921690 A A A A A B A A A Mong1 (riffle) -35.251230 149.921690 B A A A A A A R13 (edge) -35.543080 149.929740 X A X A A A A A A R13 (riffle) -35.543080 149.929740 A X A A B A SHOA1211 (edge) -35.250420 149.919980 X A A SHOA1211 (riffle) -35.250420 149.919980 A A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 199

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C96. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C96: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Mongarlowe River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 200

Braidwood

Figure C97 Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C97 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 201

Pressures The Braidwood sub-catchment was considered to have a high environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 60% of the native riparian vegetation has been removed. The average density of gully erosion in this sub-catchment was considered to be high. The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified grazing in the Boyle drainage unit as contributing a very high phosphorus source rating and high suspended solids source rating. Intensive animal production, grazing, Braidwood STP, landfills and stormwater were identified as impacting on Gillamatong Creek yielding a moderate to very high phosphorus source rating and (for the STP) a moderate pathogen source rating. In Jembaicumbene Creek, grazing contributed to a very high phosphorus source rating and gully erosion to a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further gully erosion and sedimentation in the lower reaches of Braidwood catchment. New rural residential development and mining for gold under prospecting leases were also identified as future pressures (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C98. The dominant land use in the sub-catchment is grazing and improved pastures (60%) followed by conservation or natural areas (24%) and land used for forestry purposes (9%).

Braidwood Creek

Waste disposal Urban and rural residential

Transport and utilities Services or recreation

Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial

Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C98: Land use in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 202

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data was available from 3 gauging stations in the Braidwood Creek sub- catchment (Table C46). Table C46: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215237 Gillamatong 13/03/1994 3.635 2.268 1.85 2.833 Ck 215241 Shoalhaven 29/08/1994 11.708 9.792 3.64 5.930 River at Bendoura 215209 Shoalhaven 08/11/1973 215.5 68.559 33.472 50.881 River at Mountview

The median flow in Gillamatong Creek during the audit period (median=2.833 ML/day) was lower than the long-term median flow (3.635 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was slightly higher than median flow during the 2004–2007 period and slightly lower than median flow during the 2001–2004 period. There appears to have been a relative increase in the high flows in Gillamatong Creek during the current audit period (see flow exceedance curve; Appendix F). Gillamatong Creek receives discharges from the Braidwood STP. The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Bendoura during the current audit period (median=5.93 ML/day) was lower than (about half) the long-term median flow (11.708 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period, but lower than the median flow in the 2001–2004 period. The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Mountview during the audit period (median=50.881 ML/day) was lower than (about a quarter) the long-term median flow (215.5 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period, but lower than the median flow in the 2001–2004 period.

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Braidwood sub-catchment is available from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood (E891).

River water quality The median TN level in Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood was high (median=0.63 mg/L) during the current audit period. Most TN levels measured in Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood were above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TN level during the audit period was similar to or higher than the previous two periods (2001–2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.45 and 0.6 mg/L, respectively). The median TP level in Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood was high (median=0.0905 mg/L) during the current audit period. The median TP level measured in Gillamatong

Appendix C 203

Creek at Braidwood was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TP level during the audit period was higher than in the previous two periods (2001– 2004 and 2004–2007; median=0.027 and 0.03 mg/L, respectively). The median conductivity level in Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood was relatively high (median=0.384 mS/cm) during the current audit period. The median conductivity level measured in Gillamatong Creek at Braidwood was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median conductivity level measured during the audit period was higher than the 2001–2004 period (median=0.284 mS/cm), but lower than the 2004– 2007 period periods (median=0.465 mS/cm).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment was available from twelve (12) sites over the last decade (Figure C99 and Table C47). Macroinvertebrate Data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (8.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Four of these sites (33.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Six of these sites (50%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (8.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C47. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, E860 and E891 (edge habitat only) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at E860 have been predominately Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site was Band A (2009). AusRivAs scores at E891 have been Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at this site was Band B (2009).

Appendix C 204

Figure C99: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 205

Table C46: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33027 (edge) -35.555070 149.835910 X 33027 (riffle) -35.555070 149.835910 A E860 (edge) -35.448790 149.721170 A X A A B A A A A E860 (riffle) -35.448790 149.721170 B A A E891 -35.425680 149.736550 B B B B B B B B B MMP163 -35.408810 149.636040 B MMP174 -35.417450 149.694440 C MMP19 -35.443650 149.630540 A MMP214 -35.441860 149.779510 B MMP260 -35.447480 149.835220 B MMP62 -35.501670 149.715830 A B MMP64 -35.411670 149.673890 B SHOA09 (edge) -35.443300 149.633100 A SHOA09 (riffle) -35.443300 149.633100 A SHOA501 (edge) -35.443600 149.779600 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 206

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C100. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest and Tableland Swamp Meadow. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C100: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Braidwood Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 207

Back and Round Mountain Creeks

Figure C101: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Back Creek and Round Mountain Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C101 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Back Creek and Round Mountain Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 208

Pressures The Back and Round Mountain creeks sub-catchment was considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Back Creek, Witts Creek, the lower reaches of Bourkes Creek and the section of the Shoalhaven River in this sub- catchment were identified as being almost completely devoid of native riparian vegetation. The average density of gully erosion was considered to be high (SCA 2007a). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified grazing and horticulture in the Ballalaba drainage unit as contributing a moderate to very high nutrient source loading and a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further gully erosion and sedimentation as well as mining for gold under prospecting leases (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land Use The major land-use categories in the Back Creek and Round Mountain Creek sub- catchment is shown in Figure C102. Approximately half of the sub-catchment is occupied by land utilised for grazing or improved pastures (50%) followed by land used for forestry (29%) and conservation and natural areas (19%).

Back Creek &

Round Mountain Creek

Transport and utilities Services or recreation Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial

Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C102: Land use in the Back Creek and Round Mountain Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 209

Water availability

Surface water flow No recent (or historic) flow data were available from the Back and Round Mountain Creeks sub-catchment

Ecosystem and raw water quality The auditor was not made aware of any long-term water quality monitoring site in the Back and Round Mountain creeks sub-catchment.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Back and Round Creek sub-catchment was available from fourteen (14) sites over the last decade (Figure C103 and Table C48). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. One of these sites (7.1%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Nine of these sites (64.3%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (28.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). Two core sites, MMP16 and MMP17 (both with edge and riffle habitat) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band B (Significantly Impaired). The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP16 was Band A (2009) and Band B (2009) at MMP17. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 210

Figure C103: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Back and Round Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Back and Round creeks sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 211

Table C48: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Back and Round Mountain Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 33003 -35.607400 149.646880 B 33139 -35.569500 149.625160 A 34177 -35.609380 149.617030 B MMP164 -35.575340 149.588170 X MMP165 -35.550530 149.592400 A MMP16 (edge) -35.606590 149.614470 A MMP16 (riffle) -35.606590 149.614470 A MMP171 -35.505750 149.698230 A MMP17 (edge) -35.509140 149.671960 B MMP17 (riffle) -35.509140 149.671960 A MMP18 -35.567800 149.693320 A MMP213 (edge) -35.572840 149.630310 A MMP213 (riffle) -35.572840 149.630310 A MMP95 -35.529790 149.644190 B Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 212

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C104. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest and Tableland Swamp Meadow. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C104: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Back Creek and Round Mountain creeks sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 213

Jerrabattgulla Creek

Figure C105: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C105 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment.

Appendix C 214

Pressures The Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment was considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 49% of the native riparian vegetation has been removed in this sub-catchment. Streambank erosion has been recorded in the upper section of the Shoalhaven River (SCA 2007a). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) identified grazing and gully erosion in the Wyanbene drainage unit as contributing a very high phosphorus source loading and a high suspended solids source rating. Potential future pressures arise from further streambank and gully erosion and associated sedimentation (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current Audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment are shown in Figure C106. The major land uses in the sub-catchment are areas of land used for grazing and improved pastures (43%), conservation and natural areas (29%) and forestry (26%)

Jerrabattgula Creek

Transport and utilities Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas Abandoned or degraded land

Figure C106 Land use in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 215

Water availability

Surface water flow Recent flow data were available from 1 gauging station in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment (Table C49). Table C49: Flow (in ML/day) at gauging stations in the Jerrabattgulla sub-catchment.

Date Long- 2001– 2004– 2007– Station records term 2004 2007 2010 number Site name commenced median median median median 215008 Shoalhaven 18/09/1950 47.15 24.84 18.16 25.32 River at Kadona

The median flow in the Shoalhaven River at Kadona during the current audit period (median=25.32 ML/day) was lower than (about half) the long-term median flow (47.15 ML/day). The median flow during the audit period was higher than the median flow during the 2004–2007 period, and similar to the median flow in the 2001–2004 period.

Ecosystem and raw water quality The auditor was not made aware of any long-term water quality monitoring site in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment.

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment was available from eighteen (18) sites over the last decade (Figure C107 and Table C50). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Three of these sites (16.7%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Richer than Reference’ (Band X). Ten one of these sites (55.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Four of these sites (22.2%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (5.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C50. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here.

Appendix C 216

Figure C107: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 217

Table C50: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 34166 -35.803650 149.630490 B 34185 -35.789950 149.639520 C 33150E -35.717360 149.648390 A 33150R -35.717360 149.648390 A 34076 (edge 1) -35.839010 149.616010 B 34076 (edge 2) -35.839010 149.616010 B 34084 (edge 1) -35.697570 149.568180 B 34084 (edge 2) -35.697570 149.568180 B Boggy -35.790390 149.639030 A MMP08 -35.789290 149.638690 A A A A OEM A B A MMP09 -35.681400 149.593000 A A B X A A A A X MMP10 -35.724850 149.648370 A MMP167 -35.760140 149.654860 A MMP168 -35.808170 149.559770 X MMP179 (edge) -35.732090 149.570830 X MMP179 (riffle) -35.732090 149.570830 A MMP200 -35.824880 149.629330 B MMP67 -35.690280 149.637500 A MMP94 (edge) -35.698610 149.584850 A MMP94 (riffle) -35.698610 149.584850 A SHOA11 (edge) -35.849900 149.542400 A SHOA11 (riffle) -35.849900 149.542400 A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 218

Two core sites, MMP08 and MMP09 (both edge habitat only) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores at both core sites have consistently been Band A (Similar to Reference). The latest AusRivAs rating at MMP08 was Band A (2009) and Band X (2009) at MMP09.

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C108. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C108: Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Jerrabattgulla Creek sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 219

Upper Shoalhaven River

Figure C109: Location of existing and historical water quality monitoring sites and gauging stations in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Note: Sites identified in Figure C109 is not a comprehensive list of all sites sampled in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment.

Appendix C 220

Pressures The Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment was considered to have a medium environmental stress rating (SCA 2007a). Approximately 40% of the native riparian vegetation has been cleared. Gully erosion has been controlled in parts of the sub- catchment (SCA 2007a). The SCA’s CDSS (SCA 2009a) did not identify any area in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment to be in the top 100 priority source sub-catchments. Potential future pressures arise from dryland salinity and, in the lower parts of the catchment, from new rural residential development (SCA 2007a).

State of the sub-catchment during the current audit period (1 July 2007 to 30 June 2010)

Land use Major land-use categories in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment are shown in Figure C110. The major land uses in the sub-catchment are conservation and natural areas (67%) areas of grazing and improved pastures (21%) and forestry (11%).

Upper Shoalhaven River

Transport and utilities Natural water and wetlands Mining, manufacturing or industrial Grazing or improved pastures Forestry Cultivation or intensive agriculture Conservation or natural areas

Figure C110 Land use in the Upper Shoalhaven sub-catchment Source: Data from SCA (2010)

Appendix C 221

Water availability

Surface water flow No recent flow data were available from the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment.

Ecosystem and raw water quality Long-term water quality monitoring in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment was available up until September 2001 from the SCA’s long-term river water quality monitoring site on Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura (E809). This site was discontinued as a routine water quality monitoring site. No water quality data were available for either the current audit period or the 2004–2007 period.

River water quality The median TN level in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in the last period monitored (2001–2004) was moderate to high (median=0.65 mg/L). Most TN levels measured in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in 2001–2004 were above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median TN levels were similar to earlier periods (Appendix G). The median TP level in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in the last period monitored (2001–2004) was moderate (median=0.043 mg/L). The median TP level in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in 2001–2004 was above the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers, but the sample size was small (n=9). The median TP level in 2001– 2004 was similar to previous periods (although the median level in 1998–2001 was low) (Appendix G). The median conductivity level in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in 2001–2004 was low (median=0.0955 mS/cm) (Appendix G). Most conductivity levels measured in Jembaicumbene Creek at Bendoura in 2001–2004 were below the ANZECC guideline for upland rivers. The median conductivity level in 2001–2004 was similar to the previous periods (Appendix G).

Biodiversity and habitats

Macroinvertebrates Data on macroinvertebrates in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment was available from eighteen (18) sites over the last decade (Figure C111 and Table C51). Macroinvertebrate data was primarily sourced from the SCA and DECCW monitoring programs. Ten of these sites (55.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Similar to Reference’ (Band A). Seven of these sites (38.9%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Significantly Impaired’ (Band B). One of these sites (5.6%) had their most recent AusRivAs health rating as ‘Severely Impaired’ (Band C). Macroinvertebrate data was also available at a number of sites from earlier periods (pre-2001) and these have been included in Table C51. There may be other macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the sub-catchment which have not been captured here. Two core sites, MMP06 and R8 (both with edge and riffle habitat) have been assessed each year since 2001. AusRivAs scores for both core sites have generally fluctuated between Band A (Similar to Reference) and Band X (Richer than Reference). The latest AusRivAs ratings at both sites were Band B (2009).

Appendix C 222

Figure C111: Location and AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Note: This figure is not a comprehensive list of all the sites that have been sampled in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment. Each site is represented by its most recent AusRivAs rating.

Appendix C 223

Table C51: AusRivAs ranking of macroinvertebrate monitoring sites in the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Site code Latitude Longitude Historic 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 34167 -35.934540 149.589390 C 34176 -35.872380 149.663340 A MMP06 (edge) -35.844660 149.640010 X X A X X A A A B MMP06 (riffle) -35.844660 149.640010 A B A B B B MMP07 (edge) -35.881950 149.564650 A A MMP07 (riffle) -35.881950 149.564650 A MMP199 -35.931400 149.568330 A MMP211 (edge) -35.872230 149.662760 A MMP211 (riffle) -35.872230 149.662760 A MMP269 (edge) -35.954900 149.539300 A MMP269 (riffle) -35.954900 149.539300 A MMP73 (edge) -35.884440 149.593060 B MMP73 (riffle) -35.884440 149.593060 A MMP93 -35.935040 149.589670 B R8 (edge) -35.890980 149.594960 B A A A X A X X B R8 (riffle) -35.890980 149.594960 B A A A B SHOA103 (edge) -35.862000 149.649100 B SHOA103 (riffle) -35.862000 149.649100 A SHOA104 (edge) -35.881960 149.564570 A A A B SHOA104 (riffle) -35.881960 149.564570 A X A A Note: Riffle and edge are specified where both habitats were sampled, otherwise it should be assumed that only edge habitat was sampled.

Appendix C 224

Wetlands The extent and location of wetlands mapped by the SCA (2010a) and DECCW (2010b) is shown in Figure C112. The most common wetland types in the sub- catchment are Tableland Swamp Flats Forest, Tableland Swamp Meadow and Shoalhaven Riparian Scrub. Limited information was available on the condition of wetlands in this sub-catchment during the current audit.

Figure C112 Forested and freshwater wetland vegetation communities of the Upper Shoalhaven River sub-catchment Source: DECCW (2010b) and SCA (2010a)

Appendix C 225

References ABC (2010). 702 ABC Sydney. Concerns mining drying-up historic Thirlmere Lakes. Posted October 11, 2010 10:04:00. . Accessed 26 October, 2010, ANZECC/ARMCANZ (2000). Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality. Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council and Agriculture and Resource Management Council of Australia and New Zealand. Canberra. Aurecon (2009). Groundwater response strategy – Investigation of Anomalous Groundwater Behaviour. Baal Bone Colliery Reference 24596-003. BMCC (2004). Upper Kedumba River Valley. Plans of Management Covering the Community Lands within “The Gully” Aboriginal Place, revised edition 2004. Blue Mountains City Council, Katoomba. BoM (2010). Climate Statistics for Australian Locations. Australian Government. Bureau of Meteorology. Accessed 26 October, 2010, Cardno Forbes Rigby (2007). Environmental Assessment for Modification to Dendrobium Area 3. Final Report November 2007. Reference 107055-01 Report 002. Revision 0. Cardno Forbes Rigby, Wollongong. Centennial Coal (2009). Springvale Colliery Subsidence Management Status Report. Four Monthly Update. 7th March 2009. CSIRO (2006). Sediment Source Tracing in the Lake Burragorang Catchment Report to the Sydney Catchment Authority. CSIRO Land and Water Science Report 47/07. DEC (2006). The Vegetation of the Western Blue Mountains. Unpublished report funded by the Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment Management Authority. Department of Environment and Conservation, Sydney. DECC (2007). 2007 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment. Report to the Minister for Climate Change, Environment and Water, NSW Government. Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW, Sydney. DECC (2009). Supplementary Submission to the Planning Assessment Commission Metropolitan Coal Project Environmental Assessment. 3 April 2009. DECCW (2008) Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (NSW) Montane peatlands and swamps of the New England, NSW North Coast, Sydney Basin, South East Corner, South Eastern Highlands and Australian Alps bioregions – endangered ecological community listing. Last Updated 12 February 2008. Accessed 2 November 2010. < http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/determinations/MontanePeatlandsEndSpListi ng.htm> DECCW (2009). Second Submission to the BHP Bulli Seam Environmental Assessment. NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. Sydney. DECCW (2010a). Report on Farmers Creek Lithgow, June 2010. Internal DECCW Report. DECCW (2010b). South Coast – Illawarra Vegetation Integration (SCIVI) Extant Vegetation Classification – ArcGIS shapefile layer. V14July2010. A revised

Appendix C 226

classification and map for the coast and tablelands. Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (NSW), Sydney. For more information see Tozer et al (2010) DEH (2005) Department of the Environment and Heritage (DEH) 2005, Nationally threatened Species and Ecological communities: Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone, Australian Government. DLWC (1998). Experimental environmental flows and related ecosystem monitoring and research of the Coxs River below Lyell Dam. An independent Expert Panel report to the Department of Land and Water Conservation. July 1996. Centre for Integrated Catchment Management, University of Western Sydney (Hawkesbury). Richmond. ISBN 1 86341 530 0. DSEWPaC (2010) Temperate Highland Peat Swamps on Sandstone. Last updated 5 February 2010. Accessed 27 October 2010. Environment Australia (2001). A Directory of Important Wetlands in Australia, Third Edition. Environment Australia, Canberra. GHD (2009).. Report for Highlands Source Project. Preliminary Environmental Assessment. Goulburn Mulwaree Council, Goulburn.. Gibbins, L. (2003). A Geophysical Investigation of Two Upland Swamps, Woronora Plateau, NSW, Australia. Honours Thesis, Macquarie University. HNCMA (2008a). Upper Coxs River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008c). Kowmung River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008d). Werriberri River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008e). Little River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008f). Nattai River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008g). Upper Nepean River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008h). Upper Wollondilly River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010,

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HNCMA (2008i). Wollondilly River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008j). Mulwaree River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, HNCMA (2008k). Wingecarribee River Subcatchment. Hawkesbury Nepean Catchment Management Authority, Last Modified: 08 Dec 2008. Accessed 26 October, 2010, Krogh, M. (2004). Assessment of Potential Causes Underlying the Collapse of Flatrock Swamp. Internal Sydney Catchment Authority Report. October 2004. Krogh, M. (2007). Management of Longwall Coal Mining Impacts in Sydney’s Southern Drinking Water Catchments. Australasian Journal of Environmental Management, 14, 155-165. Mills, K.W., and Huuskes (2004). The effects of mining subsidence on rockbars in the Waratah Rivulet at Metropolitan Colliery. In: The Proceedings of the 6th Triennial Conference on Mine Subsidence, Maitland October 2004. pp. 47-63. Mine Subsidence Technological Society. NOW (2010). Draft Water Sharing Plan for the Greater Metropolitan Region unregulated river water sources: background document May 2010 ISBN 978 1 74263 044 1. [NOTE: copyright is to State of New South Wales through the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water, 2010] NPWS (1997). Thirlmere Lakes National Park New Plan of Management. NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. NPWS, DEC and SCA (2007). Wingecarribee Swamp and Special Area Plan of Management 2007 (WSSAPoM). National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment and Conservation, Sydney Catchment Authority. SCA (2007a). Sustaining the Catchments. The Regional Plan for the drinking water catchments of Sydney and adjacent regional centres. Regional Plan – Overview September 2007. Department of Planning and Sydney Catchment Authority. ISBN: 978-1-876951-32-0 SCA (2007b). Dams of Greater Sydney and Surrounds. Woronora. Sydney Catchment Authority. SCA (2009a). Prioritising Catchment Actions. The catchment decision support system. 2009. Sydney Catchment Authority. SCA (2009b). Annual Water Quality Monitoring Report 2008-2009. Sydney Catchment Authority. SCA (2010a). Wetlands ArcGIS shapefile layer. ArcGIS Shapefile compiled using a combination of 2001 and 2008 digital aerial photography (both natural colour and infra-red). Sydney Catchment Authority. Wetland classification was conducted using the ANZECC standard as described in Chapter 2 of The Directory of Important Wetlands (Environment Australia 2001). SCA (2010b). Wollondilly River sub-catchment – Paddys River section. Water Quality Outcomes. Sydney Catchment Authority. Accessed 26 October 2010, SCA (2010c). Kangaroo River. Water Quality Outcomes. Sydney Catchment Authority. Accessed 26 October 2010,

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SCA (2010d). Nerrimunga River and Bungonia Creek sub-catchments. Water Quality Outcomes. Sydney Catchment Authority. Accessed 26 October, 2010, SCA (2010e). Mid Shoalhaven subcatchment. Water Quality Outcomes. Sydney Catchment Authority. Accessed 26 October, 2010, SCA (2010f). Reedy Creek, Boro Creek and Mongarlowe River subcatchments. Water Quality Outcomes. Sydney Catchment Authority. Accessed 26 October, 2010, SMEC (1998). Department of Land and Water Conservation. Coxs River System Analysis. Final Report. Project No. 31835. July 1998. SMEC Australia Pty. Ltd. North Sydney. Tozer, M.G., Turner, K., Keith, D.A., Tindall, D., Pennay,C., Simpson, C, MacKenzie, B., Beukers, P., and Cox, S. (2010) Native vegetation of southeast NSW: a revised classification and map for the coast and eastern tablelands. Cunninghamia (2010) 11(3): 359–406. WCA (2008a). Draft Lake Bathurst and The Morass Wetland Management Plan. Wetland Care Australia. Ballina. WCA (2008b). Management of Paddys River Wetlands. Draft Background Paper. Wetland Care Australia. Ballina. Young, A. R. M. (1982). Upland swamps (dells) of the Woronora Plateau, N.S.W. PhD thesis, University of Wollongong.

Appendix C 229 Appendix D Major projects in the Catchment

Table D1: Major projects in or adjacent to the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment by local government area (LGA)

Project job title LGA Decision Status Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Complex: Appin Ventilation DGRs Issued Shaft No. 6 Project Camden Gas Project: Stage 3 Campbelltown DGRs Issued Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Complex: Bulli Seam Assessment Operations Project South West Rail Link: South Campbelltown West Rail Link Stage B2 - Assessment Project Application Camden Gas Project: Spring Campbelltown Proponent Farm and Menangle Park - Reviewing Modification 1 Submissions Camden Gas Project: DA 75-4- Campbelltown Approved - Determination 2005 (Sugarloaf Farm) MOD 2 10/01/2010 Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Complex: West Cliff Coal Mine Approved - Determination - Surface Goaf Gas Drainage 07/12/2009 Project Modification 1 Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Approved - Complex: Appin Gas Drainage Determination 02/10/2009 Project Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Campbelltown Approved - Determination Modification 11 18/09/2009 Southern Sydney Freight Line: Campbelltown Modification 3 - Temporary loss Approved - Determination of transport facilities during 14/09/2009 construction Southern Sydney Freight Line: Campbelltown Approved - Modification 4 - Condition 43 Determination 18/08/2009 (Construction Hours) Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Approved - Complex: West Cliff CPP Determination 17/08/2009 Project Leafs Gully Gas-Fired Power Campbelltown Approved - Station: Leafs Gully Gas-Fired Determination 11/08/2009 Power Station Southern Sydney Freight Line: Campbelltown Approved - Modification 2 - Condition 29 Determination 31/07/2009 (Cabramatta Parking Plan)

230 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Project job title LGA Decision Status Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Approved - Complex: West Cliff Fuel Determination 04/03/2009 Facility Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Approved - Complex: West Cliff Gas Determination 08/12/2008 Drainage Project Camden Gas Project: Spring Campbelltown Approved - Determination Farm and Menangle Park 04/09/2008 Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Campbelltown Approved - Determination Concept Plan 04/09/2008 Appin-West Cliff Mining Campbelltown Approved - Complex: Water Supply Determination 26/09/2007 Pipieline Project South West Rail Link: Concept Campbelltown Approved - Determination Plan Application 29/08/2007 Woodlawn Wind Farm: Goulburn Woodlawn Wind Farm Mulwaree Assessment Modification 3 Woodlawn Waste Facility: Goulburn Exhibition Woodlawn Expansion Project Mulwaree Highlands Source Project: Goulburn Assessment Project Application Mulwaree Hanging Rock Gas-Fired Goulburn Power Station: Project Mulwaree DGRs Issued Application - 300MW Facility Marian Vale Quarry: P 06_0298 Goulburn (Marianvale Quarry & Mulwaree DGRs Issued Associated Industries) Goulburn Proponent Ardmore Park Quarry: Mulwaree Reviewing Modification 1 - Site Access Submissions Woodlawn Waste Facility: Goulburn Modification to receive regional Mulwaree Approved - Determination waste at the Woodlawn Waste 11/08/2010 Facility Woodlawn Wind Farm: Goulburn Approve - Woodland Wind Farm DA-250- Mulwaree Determination 13/07/2010 10-2004 MOD2 Woodlawn Wind Farm: Goulburn Approved - Woodlawn Wind Farm Mulwaree Determination 12/05/2010 Modification Capital Wind Farm: Goulburn Approved - Determination Modification 5 - turbine storage Mulwaree 23/12/2009 Marulan Gas Fired Power Goulburn Stations: Energy Australia Gas Mulwaree Approved - Determination Fired Power Station - Project 26/10/2009 Application

Appendix D 231 Project job title LGA Decision Status Marulan Gas Fired Power Goulburn Stations: Concept Plan - Gas Mulwaree Approved - Determination Fired Power Stations and 26/10/2009 Associated Infrastructure Marulan Gas Fired Power Goulburn Stations: Delta Electricity Gas Mulwaree Approved - Determination Fired Power Station - Project 26/10/2009 Application Ardmore Park Quarry: Modified Goulburn Approved - Determination Project Mulwaree 20/09/2009 Goulburn Approved - Lynwood Quarry: Modification 1 Determination Mulwaree 07/05/2009 Marulan South Quarry: Marulan Goulburn Approved - South Quarry - Exploratory Mulwaree Determination 17/03/2009 Test Pit Capital Wind Farm: Mod 4 - Goulburn Approved - Amendment to Condition 52 Mulwaree Determination 09/02/2009 (Construction Hours) Capital Wind Farm: Mod 3 - Goulburn Approved - Determination Relocation of two turbines Mulwaree 18/12/2008 Gunlake Quarry: P 07_0074 Goulburn Approved - Determination (Gunlake Quarry) Mulwaree 24/09/2008 Capital Wind Farm: Mod 2 - Goulburn Approved - Determination Four Additional Turbines Mulwaree 04/06/2008 Southern Distribution Hub: CP Goulburn Approved - Determination 06_0226 Mulwaree 30/11/2007 Woodlawn Waste Facility: P Goulburn Approved - Determination 06_0239 Mulwaree 06/11/2007 Capital Wind Farm: Mod 1 - Goulburn Approved - Condition 7_Planning Mulwaree Determination 03/08/2007 Agreement Woodlawn Mine: Zinc Copper Goulburn Undetermined - Withdrawn Project Mulwaree Big Hill/ Marulan Gas-Fired Goulburn Power Station: Project Mulwaree Withdrawn - Withdrawn Application - Marulan Gas Fired Power Station Angus Place Mine: Modification Lithgow to the Angus Place Coal DGRs Issued Project – 06_0021 MOD 1 Mount Piper Ash Placement Lithgow Project: Concept Plan Exhibition Application Mount Piper Ash Placement Project Mount Piper Ash Placement Lithgow Project: Project Application Exhibition Mount Piper Ash Placement Project

232 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Project job title LGA Decision Status Lithgow Proponent Baal Bone Mine: Completion of Reviewing Mining Submissions Lidsdale Coal Loader & Rail Lithgow DGRs Issued Siding Facility: Upgrade Project Invincible Mine: Open Cut Lithgow Proponent Extension Project - Modification Reviewing 3 Submissions Mount Piper Power Station Lithgow Extension: Concept Plan Approved - Application - New Base Load Determination 12/01/2010 Power Station (Mount Piper Extension) Airly Mine: Development Lithgow Approved - Determination Consent - Modification 2 21/08/2009 Invincible Mine: Open Cut Lithgow Approved - Expansion Project - Determination 12/08/2009 Modification 2 Mount Piper Power Station: Lithgow Approved - Project Application - Western Determination 27/06/2009 Rail Coal Unloader Invincible Mine: Open Cut Lithgow Approved - Expansion Project - Determination 12/01/2009 Modification 1 Invincible Mine: Open Cut Lithgow Approved - Determination Expansion Project 04/12/2008 Wallerawang Power Station : Lithgow Approved - Project Application - Kerosene Determination 26/11/2008 Vale Ash Dam Lamberts Gully Mine: Lithgow Approved - Determination Modification 1 03/09/2008 Invincible Mine: Open Cut Lithgow Approved - Determination Project - Modification 2 06/12/2007 Baal Bone Mine: Ventilation Lithgow Approved - Determination Shaft 24/10/2007 Emirates Luxury Resort: Lithgow Approved - 06_0310 MOD 1 - Modifcations Determination 10/10/2007 to Staff Accommodation Woodlawn Wind Farm: Palerang Woodlawn Wind Farm Assessment Modification 3 Woodlawn Wind Farm: Palerang Approve - Woodland Wind Farm DA-250- Determination 13/07/2010 10-2004 MOD2 Main Road 92 upgrade project: Palerang Modification 3 - Amend Approved - Determination Commitment 89.2 - Spoil 11/06/2010 Disposal

Appendix D 233 Project job title LGA Decision Status Woodlawn Wind Farm: Palerang Approved - Woodlawn Wind Farm Determination 12/05/2010 Modification Capital Wind Farm: Palerang Approved - Determination Modification 5 - turbine storage 23/12/2009 Main Road 92 upgrade project: Palerang Approved - Determination Modification 2 - Condition 23 02/06/2009 Capital Wind Farm: Mod 4 - Palerang Approved - Amendment to Condition 52 Determination 09/02/2009 (Construction Hours) Capital Wind Farm: Mod 3 - Palerang Approved - Determination Relocation of two turbines 18/12/2008 Capital Wind Farm: Mod 2 - Palerang Approved - Determination Four Additional Turbines 04/06/2008 Main Road 92 upgrade project: Palerang Approved - Determination Modification 1 - Condition 51 27/05/2008 Capital Wind Farm: Mod 1 - Palerang Approved - Condition 7_Planning Determination 03/08/2007 Agreement Capital Wind Farm: Project Palerang Approved - Determination Application - wind farm 07/11/2006 Highlands Source Project: Wingecarribee Assessment Project Application Green Valley Sand Project: Wingecarribee DGRs Issued Green Valley Sand Project New Berrima Clay/Shale: New Wingecarribee DGRs Issued Berrima Clay/Shale Hanging Rock Gas-Fired Wingecarribee Power Station: Project DGRs Issued Application - 300MW Facility Kangaloon Groundwater Wingecarribee Assessment Borefields: Project Application Southern Highlands Regional Wingecarribee Approved - Shooting Complex Hill Top: Determination 01/03/2010 Project application Southern Highlands Regional Wingecarribee Approve - Shooting Complex Hill Top: Gazettal 17/10/2008 State Significant Site Listing Southern Highlands Regional Wingecarribee Shooting Complex Hill Top: Undetermined - Withdrawn Modification 1 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Complex: Appin Ventilation DGRs Issued Shaft No. 6 Project Camden Gas Project: Stage 3 Wollondilly DGRs Issued Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Complex: Bulli Seam Assessment Operations Project

234 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Project job title LGA Decision Status Wilton Quarry Project: P Wollondilly DGRs Issued 08_0076 - Wilton Quarry Camden Gas Project: Spring Wollondilly Proponent Farm and Menangle Park - Reviewing Modification 1 Submissions Camden Gas Project: DA 75-4- Wollondilly Approved - Determination 2005 (Sugarloaf Farm) MOD 2 10/01/2010 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Complex: West Cliff Coal Mine Approved - Determination - Surface Goaf Gas Drainage 07/12/2009 Project Modification 1 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: Appin Gas Drainage Determination 02/10/2009 Project Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Wollondilly Approved - Determination Modification 11 18/09/2009 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: West Cliff CPP Determination 17/08/2009 Project Picton Sewerage Scheme: Wollondilly Approved - Modification to Picton Determination 30/03/2009 Sewerage Scheme Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: West Cliff Fuel Determination 04/03/2009 Facility Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: West Cliff Gas Determination 08/12/2008 Drainage Project Camden Gas Project: Spring Wollondilly Approved - Determination Farm and Menangle Park 04/09/2008 Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Wollondilly Approved - Determination Concept Plan 04/09/2008 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: Water Supply Determination 26/09/2007 Pipieline Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: Douglas North Determination 06/07/2007 Substation Project Camden Gas Project: EMAI Wollondilly Approved - Determination Modification 1 06/07/2007 Wollondilly Approved - Camden Gas Project: EMAI Determination 09/12/2006 Camden Gas Project: Wollondilly Approved - Determination Razorback 09/12/2006 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollondilly Approved - Complex: East Appin Switching Determination 29/07/2006 Station Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Complex: Appin Ventilation DGRs Issued Shaft No. 6 Project

Appendix D 235 Project job title LGA Decision Status Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Complex: Bulli Seam Assessment Operations Project Tallawarra Gas Turbine Power Wollongong Station: Project Application - Assessment Tallawarra Stage B Gas Turbine Power Station Metropolitan Mine: Wollongong Approved - Determination Replacement Drift Modification 08/09/2010 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Complex: West Cliff Coal Mine Approved - Determination - Surface Goaf Gas Drainage 07/12/2009 Project Modification 1 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: Appin Gas Drainage Determination 02/10/2009 Project Wollongong Approved - Apex: Gas Project Determination 23/09/2009 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: West Cliff CPP Determination 17/08/2009 Project Metropolitan Mine: Project Wollongong Approved - Determination Approval 22/06/2009 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: West Cliff Fuel Determination 04/03/2009 Facility Project 06_0305 Princes Hwy, Wollongong Approved - Determination Helensburgh: Golf resort 13/01/2009 Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: West Cliff Gas Determination 08/12/2008 Drainage Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: Water Supply Determination 26/09/2007 Pipieline Project Appin-West Cliff Mining Wollongong Approved - Complex: Douglas North Determination 06/07/2007 Substation Project NRE No. 1 Mine: Preliminary Unspecified DGRs Issued Works Project Council North West and South West Unspecified Growth Centres: Concept and Council Project Application - Water DGRs Issued Related Services for Remaining Precincts NRE No. 1 Mine: Underground Unspecified DGRs Issued Expansion Project Council Liddell Mine: Development Unspecified Approved - Determination Consent - Modification 4 Council 27/10/2009

236 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Project job title LGA Decision Status NRE No. 1 Mine: NRE No. 1 Unspecified Undetermined - Withdrawn Colliery Project (withdrawn) Council Wongawilli Mine: Continued Unspecified DGRs Issued Operations Project - Nebo Area Council Wongawilli Mine: Bathhouse Unspecified Approved - Determination Project Council 24/02/2010 Unspecified Proponent Pine Dale Coal Mine: Council Reviewing Yarraboldy Extension Submissions Camden Gas Project: Stage 3 Camden DGRs Issued Jacks Gully Waste Facility: Camden MOD 2 - update Lot numbers DGRs Issued and modify air filtration technology South West Rail Link: South Camden West Rail Link Stage B2 - Assessment Project Application Jacks Gully Waste Facility: Mod Camden 4 - Garden Organics Plant Assessment Input Camden Gas Project: Spring Camden Proponent Farm and Menangle Park - Reviewing Modification 1 Submissions Jacks Gully Waste Facility: Mod Camden Approved - 3 - Increased Greenwaste Input Determination 26/08/2010 and Gas Pipeline Camden Gas Project: DA 75-4- Camden Approved - Determination 2005 (Sugarloaf Farm) MOD 2 10/01/2010 Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Camden Approved - Determination Modification 11 18/09/2009 Camden Gas Project: Spring Camden Approved - Determination Farm and Menangle Park 04/09/2008 Camden Gas Project: Stage 2 Camden Approved - Determination Concept Plan 04/09/2008 South West Rail Link: Concept Camden Approved - Determination Plan Application 29/08/2007 Camden Gas Project: EMAI Camden Approved - Determination Modification 1 06/07/2007 Mulgoa, Wallacia and Penrith Silverdale Sewerage Scheme: Approved - Modificiaton to Mulgoa, Determination 31/05/2009 Wallacia and Silverdale Sewerage Scheme

Source: Department of Planning Major Projects Register Note: It is possible that some major projects affecting the Catchment may not have been included in this list. Some proposals listed, while within an LGA that covers part of the Catchment, may actually be entirely outside the Drinking Water Catchment.

Appendix D 237 Appendix E Water sharing plan management zones

Table E1: Water sharing plan management zones

Management zone Boundary Area Licences Licences Total entitlement Peak demand Hydro- logical stress In-stream value In- to Risk stream Regional plan sub- catchment Main of purpose licence value Hawkesbury–Nepean Upper Nepean and Upstream Warragamba Mulwaree River Includes the hydrologic catchment of 759 km2 23 1426 ML/yr 41.5 ML/day High High High Mulwaree 92.08% used Mulwaree River to the confluence of for irrigation the Mulwaree River and the purposes Wollondilly River Upper Wollondilly Includes the hydrological catchment 3369 km2 50 6574.2 9.2 ML/day High High High Upper 21.15% used River of the Wollondilly River at and above (Entire ML/yr Wollondilly and for irrigation river flow gauge 2122711 Wollondilly small part of purposes catchment) Wollondilly Lower Wollondilly Includes the hydrological catchment 91 4179.2 52 ML/day High High High Wollondilly 94.23% used River of the Wollondilly River below river ML/yr for irrigation flow gauge 2122711 purposes Upper Wingecarribee Includes the hydrological catchment 743 km2 31 696.9 ML/yr 30.8 ML/day High High High Wingecarribee 92.48% used River of the Wingecarribee River at and (Entire for irrigation above river flow gauge 212031 Wingecarribee purposes Lower Wingecarribee Includes the hydrological catchment catchment) 42 1339.7 30.8 ML/day High High High Wingecarribee 84.21% used River of the Wingecarribee River below ML/yr for irrigation river flow gauge 212031 purposes Nattai River Includes the hydrological catchment 1343 km2 12 125.1 0.9 ML/day High Medium Medium Nattai 60.75% used of Nattai River (Total for Nattai ML/year for industrial River and Lake purposes Little River Includes the hydrological catchment Burragorang 4 51 ML/year 0.1 ML/day High Medium Medium Little 74% used for of Little River Management irrigation Zones) purposes

238 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Management zone Boundary Area Regional Regional plan sub- catchment Main of purpose licence Licences Licences Total entitlement Peak demand Hydro- logical stress In-stream value In- to Risk stream value Lake Burragorang Includes the hydrological catchments 2 48 ML/year 2.1 ML/day High Medium Medium Lake 89% used for of Lake Burragorang and the excluding Burragorang irrigation Warragamba River at and above the Sydney purposes Warragamba Dam, including Catchment Warragamba Dam but excluding Authority other MZs Werriberri Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 160 km2 49 2394.8 9.7 ML/day High Medium Medium Werriberri 93.42% used of Werriberri Creek to the confluence ML/year for irrigation of Werriberri Creek and Lake purposes Burragorang Pheasants Nest Weir Includes the Nepean River at and 1188 km2 0 No licensed 0 High Medium Low Upper Nepean to Nepean Dam between Pheasants Nest Weir, (Total for Upper water use including Pheasants Nest Weir, and Nepean River Nepean Dam, not including Nepean Management Dam Zones) Maguires Crossing Includes the hydrological catchment 23 1268 15.4 ML/day High Medium Low Upper Nepean 77% used for of the Nepean River above and ML/year irrigation including Nepean Dam purposes Mid Cataract River Includes the Cataract River between 0 No licensed 0 High Medium Low Upper Nepean Broughton Pass Weir, including water use Broughton Pass Weir, and Cataract Dam, not including Cataract Dam Avon River Includes the Avon River between 0 No licensed 0 High Medium Low Upper Nepean Avon Dam, not including Avon Dam, water use and the confluence of Avon River and Cordeaux River Cordeaux River Includes the Cordeaux River 0 No licensed 0 High Medium Low Upper Nepean between Cordeaux Dam, not water use including Cordeaux Dam, and the confluence of Avon River and Cordeaux River Upper Nepean Includes the hydrological catchment 1 5 ML/year 15.4 ML/day High Medium Low Upper Nepean 0% used for Tributaries of Nepean River above Douglas Park (entire Upper irrigation Weir excluding other Upper Nepean purposes, Headwaters Nepean River MZs Management 40% used for Zone) industrial purposes, 40% used for recreational purposes

Appendix E 239

Management zone Boundary Area Regional Regional plan sub- catchment Main of purpose licence Licences Licences Total entitlement Peak demand Hydro- logical stress In-stream value In- to Risk stream value Wywandy Includes the hydrological catchment 368 km2 10 273.3 3 ML/day High Medium High Upper Coxs & 43.47% used of the Coxs River to the Lake Lyell ML/year Small part of Mid for irrigation exclusion zone 200 metres Coxs purposes downstream of the wall of Lake Lyell Dam Dharabuladh Includes the hydrological catchment 646 km2 22 911.5 67.1 ML/day High Medium High Mid Coxs 94.64% used of Coxs River between Wywandy MZ ML/year for irrigation and the confluence of Coxs River purposes and Jenolan River Jenolan River Includes the hydrological catchment 393 km2 1 132 Unknown High Medium High Mid Coxs 0% used for of the Jenolan River to the ML/year irrigation confluence of the Jenolan River and purposes, Coxs River and the hydrological 47% catchment of Coxs River between the domestic and confluence of Coxs River and stock, 47% Jenolan River and the confluence of industrial Kowmung River and Coxs River Kowmung River Includes the hydrological catchment 825 km2 3 151 0.6 ML/day Medium High High Kowmung & 100% used of Kowmung River to the confluence ML/year Small Part Lower for irrigation of Kowmung River and the Coxs purposes hydrological catchment of Coxs River between the confluence of Kowmung River and Coxs River and the confluence of Coxs River and Kedumba River Kedumba River Includes the hydrological catchment 158 km2 3 157 2.2 ML/day High Medium Low Lower Coxs 68% used for of Kedumba River to the confluence ML/year irrigation of Kedumba River and Coxs River purposes and the hydrological catchment of Coxs River between the confluence of Kedumba River and Coxs River and the confluence of Coxs River and Lake Burragorang as defined for Lake Burragorang MZ Hawkesbury and Lower Nepean rivers Grose River Includes the hydrological catchment 649 km2 48 1582.8 13.1 ML/day High High High Grose 84.7% used of Grose River to the confluence of ML/year for irrigation Grose River and Nepean River purposes

240 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Management zone Boundary Area Regional Regional plan sub- catchment Main of purpose licence Licences Licences Total entitlement Peak demand Hydro- logical stress In-stream value In- to Risk stream value Southern Sydney rivers Upper Woronora Includes the hydrological catchment 152 km2 2 62.9 1.5 ML/day High Medium Medium Woronora 100 % used River of Woronora River above Woronora (Total for ML/year for irrigation Dam Woronora Catchment) Shoalhaven Upper Shoalhaven Includes the hydrological catchment 573 km2 15 527 12.2 ML/day High Low High Upper 98% used for River of Jerrabattgulla Creek and the ML/year Shoalhaven and irrigation Shoalhaven River above the Jerrabattgulla purposes confluence of the Shoalhaven River Creek and Jerrabattgulla Creek Mid Shoalhaven Includes the hydrological catchment 1068 km2 17 1826 13.5 ML/day High High High Back & Round 80% used for River of the Shoalhaven River between the ML/year Mountain Creek; irrigation confluence of the Shoalhaven River Braidwood purposes and Jerrabattgulla Creek and the Creek, parts of Shoalhaven River and Mongarlowe Reedy Creek and River, excluding the hydrological Boro Creek catchments of Reedy Creek and Boro Creek Reedy Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 367 km2 7 279 3.4 ML/day High High Low Reedy Creek 100% used of Reedy Creek to the confluence of ML/year for irrigation Reedy Creek and the Shoalhaven purposes River Boro Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 210 km2 0 No licensed 0 ML/day Medium High Low Boro Creek of Boro Creek to the confluence of water use Boro Creek and the Shoalhaven River Mongarlowe River Includes the hydrological catchment 411 km2 18 359 0.36 ML/day Low High Low Mongarlowe 82.3% used of the Mongarlowe River to the ML/year for irrigation confluence of the Mongarlowe River purposes and the Shoalhaven River

Includes the hydrological catchment 2 Corang and Endrick 491 km 4 81 ML/year 1.31 ML/day Medium High Medium Endrick River & 94 % used of the Corang River to the confluence Rivers Mid Shoalhaven for irrigation of the Corang River and the purposes Shoalhaven River and the hydrological catchment of the Endrick River to the confluence of the Endrick River and the Shoalhaven River

Appendix E 241

Management zone Boundary Area Regional Regional plan sub- catchment Main of purpose licence Licences Licences Total entitlement Peak demand Hydro- logical stress In-stream value In- to Risk stream value Nerrimunga Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 476 km2 11 282 2.8 ML/day Low High Low Nerrimunga 98% used for of Nerrimunga Creek to the ML/year Creek irrigation confluence of Nerrimunga Creek and purposes the Shoalhaven River Bungonia Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 271 km2 8 50 ML/year 1.54 ML/day Low Medium Low Bungonia Creek 88% used for of Bungonia Creek to the confluence irrigation of Bungonia Creek and the purposes Shoalhaven River Shoalhaven River Includes the hydrological catchment 853 km2 includes 0 There is no 0 ML/day Medium High Low Parts of Mid Gorge of the Shoalhaven River between the Barbers Creek licensed Shoalhaven & confluence of the Shoalhaven River catchment water use Bungonia Creek and the Mongarlowe River and the confluence of the Shoalhaven River and the Kangaroo River, including Tallowa Dam, and excluding the hydrological catchment of Barbers Creek Barbers Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 9 806 2.8 ML/day Medium High Low Bungonia Creek 82% used for of Barbers Creek ML/year irrigation purposes Lower Kangaroo Includes the hydrological catchment 511 km2 8 3927 ML/day Medium High High Kangaroo River 6% used for River of Kangaroo River below the flow (includes ML/year irrigation reference point (Water Sharing Plan Yarrunga and purposes for Kangaroo River Order 2003) Fitzroy Falls MZ located at grid reference KG730541, catchments) Lot No., 24 DP 22827 Yarrunga Creek Includes the hydrological catchment 8 81 ML/year ML/day Medium High High Kangaroo River 88% used for of Yarrunga Creek at and below irrigation Fitzroy Falls Reservoir purposes Fitzroy Falls Includes all hydrological catchments 17 534 ML/day Medium High High Kangaroo River 95% used for of Fitzroy Falls Reservoir and above ML/year irrigation Fitzroy Falls Reservoir purposes

242 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Appendix F Flow exceedance curves

Flow exceedance curves (cumulative distribution 4 function) Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment

4 Empirical cumulative distribution functions have been calculated and plotted using R (see http://stat.ethz.ch/R-manual/R-devel/library/stats/html/ecdf.html ). Long-term medians calculated on daily data from the date records commenced up to and including 30/06/2007.

Appendix F 243

Stn 212008 Coxs River @ Bathurst Rd Stn 212058 Coxs River @ u/s Lake Lyell Note: This is below Lake Wallace

Stn 212042 Farmers Ck @ Mt Walker Stn 212055 Neubecks Ck @ u/s Walwang

------Entire Period

------Audit Period 2007/2010

------2004/2007

------2001–2004

------Pre June 1978 (ie Before Lake Wallace) ------Post June 1978 (ie After Lake Wallace) ------Post June 1992 (ie After filling of Lake Lyell) Legend

244 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Stn 212011 Coxs River @ Lithgow Stn 212013 Megalong Ck @ NarrowNeck

Stn 2122512 Coxs River @ Glenroy Bridge Stn 212045 Coxs River @ Island Hill Note: Records for 2122512 start in May 1999, Note: Records for 212045 start in Jan so all data is post construction of Lake Lyell 1981, i.e. after construction of Lake Wallace.

Stn 212250 Coxs River @ Kelpie Point Stn 212016 Kedumba River @ Maxwells Crossing

Appendix F 245

Stn 212291 Grose River @ Burralow Stn 212260 Kowmung River @ Cedar Ford

Stn 2122996 Tonalli River @ Fire Road W2 Stn 212244 Werriberri Ck @ Werombi (Site No 2)

Stn 2122809 Little River @ Fire Road W4I

246 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Stn 212280 Nattai River @ The Causeway Stn 2122801 Nattai River @ The Crags

Stn 2122341 Glenquarry Ck @ Alcorns Stn 212209 Nepean River @ McGuires Crossing

Stn 2122051 Nepean River @ Nepean Dam Inflow Stn 2122052 Burke River @ Nepean Dam Inflow

Appendix F 247

Stn 212204 Nepean River @ Avon Dam Road Stn 212203 Nepean River @ Pheasants Nest

Stn 2122111 Avon River @ Summit Tank Stn 2122112 Flying Fox No3 Creek @ Upper Avon

Stn 212210 Avon River @ Avon Weir Stn 2122201 Goondarrin Ck @ Kemira D’Cast

248 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Stn 212221 Cordeaux River @ Cordeaux Weir Stn 2122322 Loddon River @ Bulli Appin Road

Stn 212231 Cataract River @ Jordans Crossing Stn 212233 Cataract River @ Broughtons Pass Weir

Stn 212040 Kialla Creek @ Pomeroy

Appendix F 249

GMC Wollondilly River Site GMC Pejar Creek Site

GMC Downstream Pejar Site GMC Cardross Weir Site

GMC Rossiv site GMC Downstream Rossi Weir Site

250 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

GMC Bumana Creek Site GMC Sooley Creek Site

Stn 2122711 Wollondilly River @ Murrays Flat Stn 212271 Wollondilly River @ Golden Valley

Stn 212270 Wollondilly River @ Jooriland Stn 2122725 Mulwaree River @ The Towers Note: Blue line above represents flows prior to 2001 i.e. before 2000s transfers commenced

Appendix F 251

Stn 212274 Caalang Ck @ Maugers Stn 212275 Wingecarribee River @ Sheepwash Bridge

Stn 212031 Wingecarribee River @ Stn 212272 Wingecarribee River Bong Bong Weir @ Berrima

Stn 212009 Wingecarribee River @ Greenstead Note: In the above graphs, blue line represents flows prior to 2001 i.e. before 2000s transfers commenced

252 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Flow Exceedance Curves (Cumulative Distribution Function) Woronora Catchment

Appendix F 253

Stn 2132101 Woronora River Inflow Stn 2132102 Waratah Rivulet Inflow

254 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Flow Exceedance Curves (Cumulative Distribution Function) Shoalhaven Catchment

Appendix F 255

Stn 215233 Yarrunga Ck @ Wildes Meadow Stn 215234 Yarrunga Ck @ Fitzroy Falls

Stn 215220 Kangaroo River @ Hampden Bridge Stn 215215 Shoalhaven River @ D/S Tallowa Dam

Stn 215240 Nerrimunga Ck @ Minshull Trig Stn 215239 Boro Ck @ Marlowe

256 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Stn 215002 Bungonia Creek @ Bungonia Stn 215207 Shoalhaven River @ Fossickers Flat

Stn 215242 Corang River @ Meangora Stn 215004 Corang River @ Hockeys

Stn 215208 Shoalhaven River @ Hillview Stn 215008 Shoalhaven River @ Kadona

Appendix F 257

Stn 215238 Reedy Ck @ Manar Stn 215002 Shoalhaven River @ Warri

Stn 215210 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe Stn 215007 Mongarlowe River @ Monga Note: Blue line represents 1950s data.

Stn 215237 Gillamatong Ck Stn 215241 Shoalhaven River @ Bendoura

258 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Stn 215209 Shoalhaven River @ Mountview

Appendix F 259

Appendix G River Water Quality5

ANZECC Guideline Levels Used in Water Quality Assessment Analyte Upland Rivers Lakes & Reservoirs Total Nitrogen (mg/L) 0.250 0.350 Total Phosphorus (mg/L) 0.020 0.010 Conductivity (mS/cm) 0.350 0.350a Chlorophyll a (µg/L) nab 5 Dissolved Oxygen Saturation 90 - 110 90 - 110 (%) Filterable Reactive 0.015 0.005 Phosphorus (mg/L) Oxidised Nitrogen (mg/L) 0.015 0.010 pH 6.5 - 7.5 6.5 – 8.0 Total Aluminium (mg/L) 0.055c 0.055c Total Iron (mg/L) na na Ammonia (mg/L)d 0.013 0.010 Turbidity (NTU)d 2 - 25 1 - 20 na = None Available aColour coding in the Lakes and Reservoir conductivity table has been based on the ANZECC conductivity guideline level for upland rivers, as the value provided in the ANZECC guidelines for freshwater lakes and reservoirs (20–30 µS/cm equivalent to 0.02 – 0.03 mS/cm) is for Tasmanian lakes (ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000). The Auditor considers the colour coding used in the following conductivity tables serves as a useful representation of localised conductivity levels in these freshwater lake and reservoir systems and it enables a direct comparison with conductivity levels in the rivers that flow into these lakes and reservoirs. bColour coding in the chlorophyll a table has been based on ANZECC guideline levels for chlorophyll a in freshwater lakes and reservoirs and lowland rivers (ANZECC trigger level = 5 µg/L). The ANZECC guidelines do not provide a chlorophyll a trigger level for upland rivers because they recommend monitoring of periphyton rather than phytoplankton. The Auditor notes the ANZECC recommendation regarding chlorophyll a levels in upland rivers, but considers the colour coding used in the chlorophyll a tables to still be informative, enabling a direct comparison with chlorophyll a levels in the freshwater lake and reservoir systems into which these rivers flow. cValue is for protection of 95% of species in waters of pH>6.5 (see Table 3.4.1 ANZECC/ARMCANZ 2000). dTurbidity and Ammonia data were analysed but the results not tabulated

5 Treatment of Data and Colour Coding for Tables is described in Chapter 6 of the Main Report.

260 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment TN (mg/L) – Coxs River Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 Coxs River U/S Kangaroo Upper Coxs River 0.014* 0.335 Creek N=8 N=4 Neubecks Creek Upper Coxs River 0.025* 0.3 0.28 N=18 N=3 N=9 Coxs River D/S Sawyers Upper Coxs River 0.033* 0.15* 0.164* 0.68 0.5 0.8 Swamp Creek to Pipers N=40 N=1 N=1 N=19 N=48 N=12 Flat Creek Pipers Flat Creek Upper Coxs River 2.23* 0.283 0.3 0.3 0.4 N=3 N=23 N=69 N=94 N=26 Coxs River D/S Lake Upper Coxs River 0.079* 0.595 0.725 0.7 0.74 Wallace to Blowdown N=13 N=12 N=36 N=47 N=15 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.042* 0.33* 0.504* 1.4 Blowdown to N=30 N=1 N=1 N=5 Marrangaroo Creek Marrangaroo Creek Upper Coxs River 0.019* 0.2 0.1 N=15 N=1 N=2 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.011* 0.6 0.62 0.7 Marrangaroo Creek N=3 N=19 N=36 N=15 Farmers Creek near Lake Upper Coxs River 0.05* 2.32 2.7 1.9 Lyell N=7 N=19 N=36 N=14 Coxs River below Lake Mid Coxs River 0.035* 0.425* 0.64 0.61 0.745 0.9 Lyell to Glenroy N=65 N=4 N=13 N=36 N=50 N=13 River Lett Mid Coxs River 0.015* 0.3 0.21 N=34 N=1 N=4 Coxs River Downstream Mid Coxs River 0.037* 0.5 0.475 Glenroy to Duddawarra N=14 N=1 N=2 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Mid Coxs River 0.17 0.18 0.225 0.155 0.4 0.28 Point N=100 N=38 N=80 N=60 N=152 N=85 * TKN + NitrateN + NitirteN

Appendix G 261 TN (mg/L) – Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.135 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.3 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.178 0.315 0.18 0.17 0.5 0.4 N=106 N=72 N=68 N=53 N=120 N=172 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 1.93 2.59 0.36 0.345 0.4 0.43 Maxwells Crossing N=118 N=47 N=72 N=58 N=107 N=150 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 4.225 4.2 2.83 Mittagong STP N=38 N=51 N=98 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 1.81 2.065 1.68 1.06 1.2 0.98 N=261 N=48 N=62 N=53 N=102 N=99 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.33 0.32 0.29 0.74 0.4 0.29 Smallwoods Crossing N=251 N=35 N=52 N=88 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.12 0.07 0.07 0.35 0.15 0.1 W4I N=144 N=37 N=48 N=73 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.48 0.44 Sheepwash Bridge N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.85 1.165 1.04 0.84 0.7 0.52 Berrima N=83 N=32 N=49 N=57 N=63 N=81 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 1.2 1.245 1.21 1.06 1.05 0.72 Murrays Flat N=435 N=60 N=56 N=45 N=122 N=159 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.51 0.665 0.845 0.53 0.725 0.77 Golden Valley N=319 N=56 N=94 N=33 N=60 N=77 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 1.1 1.61 1.71 1.355 1.4 1.415 Towers Weir N=278 N=31 N=23 N=10 N=39 N=20 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.38 0.875 0.575 0.48 0.9 0.6 Joorilands N=102 N=66 N=74 N=79 N=165 N=133 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.37 0.33 0.44 0.87 0.6 0.415 Werombi N=148 N=50 N=68 N=99 N=158 N=160 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.58 0.66 0.59 0.52 0.24 Lake Nepean N=91 N=41 N=55 N=42 N=14 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.2 0.155 0.14 0.18 0.2 0.2 Lake Nepean N=103 N=48 N=68 N=133 N=141 N=194 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.805 0.375 0.4 0.4 McGuires Crossing N=28 N=42 N=40 N=42

262 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment TN (mg/L) - Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.11 0.23 0.15 0.19 N=4 N=1 N=8 N=157 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.13 0.2 0.08 N=5 N=96 N=12 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.23 0.2 0.18 0.3 0.3 5 Needles N=26 N=44 N=49 N=91 N=145

TN (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.27 0.41 0.375 0.38 0.5 0.575 Hampden Bridge N=163 N=53 N=70 N=92 N=423 N=118 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.89 0.53 0.34 0.65 @ Bendoura N=34 N=58 N=63 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.235 0.31 0.32 0.16 0.2 0.345 Mongarlowe N=58 N=58 N=123 N=51 N=48 N=86 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.26 0.45 0.385 0.3 0.8 0.4 Fossickers Flat N=38 N=72 N=72 N=43 N=66 N=128 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.38 0.44 0.42 0.38 0.405 0.38 Tallowa Dam N=21 N=27 N=36 N=43 N=38 N=44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.77 0.3 0.37 0.275 0.4 0.54 Mount View N=44 N=44 N=63 N=58 N=132 N=153 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.28 0.45 0.38 0.31 0.33 0.38 Hillview N=48 N=55 N=157 N=58 N=137 N=97 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.63 0.35 0.22 0.48 N=36 N=38 N=55 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.21 0.415 0.235 0.17 0.3 0.2 N=16 N=38 N=48 N=44 N=20 N=38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 1.04 0.91 0.355 0.45 0.6 0.63 Braidwood N=39 N=49 N=44 N=47 N=78 N=80 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 1.455 0.38 0.29 0.185 0.2 0.2 N=32 N=161 N=170 N=44 N=19 N=38 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.5 0.77 0.85 0.68 Minshull Trig N=8 N=79 N=64 N=17

Appendix G 263

TP (mg/L) – Coxs River Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 Coxs River U/S Kangaroo Upper Coxs River 0.008 0.019 Creek N=16 N=4 Neubecks Creek Upper Coxs River 0.012 0.005 0.02 N=30 N=3 N=9 Coxs River D/S Sawyers Upper Coxs River 0.053 0.234 0.006 0.36 0.255 0.09 Swamp Creek to Pipers N=51 N=13 N=1 N=19 N=42 N=12 Flat Creek Pipers Flat Creek Upper Coxs River 6.77 0.0085 0.03 0.03 0.03 N=10 N=24 N=72 N=82 N=26 Coxs River D/S Lake Upper Coxs River 0.03 0.024 0.165 0.19 0.4 Wallace to Blowdown N=30 N=12 N=36 N=41 N=15 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.023 0.2 0.12 0.1 Blowdown to N=38 N=1 N=1 N=5 Marrangaroo Creek Marrangaroo Creek Upper Coxs River 0.01 0.005 0.0095 N=33 N=1 N=2 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.012 0.0145 0.05 0.095 0.06 Marrangaroo Creek N=15 N=12 N=19 N=34 N=15 Farmers Creek near Lake Upper Coxs River 0.056 0.714 2 1.5 0.115 Lyell N=13 N=12 N=19 N=34 N=14 Coxs River below Lake Mid Coxs River 0.048 0.02 0.06 0.15 0.21 0.04 Lyell to Glenroy N=141 N=4 N=12 N=36 N=40 N=13 River Lett Mid Coxs River 0.012 0.005 0.0125 N=71 N=1 N=4 Coxs River Downstream Mid Coxs River 0.037 0.01 0.0305 Glenroy to Duddawarra N=39 N=1 N=2 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Mid Coxs River 0.008 0.01 0.01 0.007 0.01 0.012 Point n=102 N=38 N=80 N=60 N=146 N=82

264 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment TP (mg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.0105 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.021 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.008 0.01 0.009 0.009 0.01 0.013 N=107 N=72 N=68 N=53 N=117 N=170 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.425 0.5 0.02 0.0125 0.01 0.027 Maxwells Crossing N=121 N=47 N=72 N=58 N=105 N=147 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 0.0995 0.1 0.09 Mittagong STP N=38 N=45 N=58 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.495 0.55 0.545 0.062 0.04 0.05 N=263 N=48 N=62 N=53 N=102 N=99 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.018 0.01 0.01 0.0455 0.01 0.005 Smallwoods Crossing N=379 N=35 N=52 N=88 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.004 0.004 0.005 0.012 0.005 0.005 W4I N=145 N=37 N=48 N=73 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.0185 0.021 0.023 Sheepwash Bridge N=18 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.081 0.06 0.04 0.051 0.04 0.036 Berrima N=106 N=32 N=49 N=57 N=63 N=81 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.12 0.13 0.175 0.413 0.11 0.066 Murrays Flat N=452 N=60 N=56 N=45 N=122 N=159 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.023 0.03 0.04 0.015 0.03 0.034 Golden Valley N=330 N=56 N=94 N=33 N=60 N=77 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.045 0.09 0.11 0.1095 0.09 0.0965 Towers Weir N=279 N=31 N=23 N=10 N=39 N=20 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.014 0.03 0.0115 0.019 0.065 0.03 Joorilands N=103 N=66 N=74 N=79 N=156 N=131 GMC Rossi Weir Upper Wollondilly 0.03 0.04 N=4 N=32 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.019 0.02 0.018 Werombi N=233 N=50 N=67 N=99 N=150 N=148 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.0205 0.0025 Lake Nepean N=122 N=41 N=55 N=42 N=14 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.007 0.009 0.008 0.009 0.005 0.009 Lake Nepean N=140 N=48 N=68 N=133 N=141 N=194 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.025 0.0155 0.0155 0.01 McGuires Crossing N=34 N=42 N=40 N=42

Appendix G 265 TP (mg/L) - Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.003 0.013 0.005 0.005 N=48 N=1 N=8 N=157 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.003 0.0065 0.005 N=46 N=96 N=12 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.006 0.0075 0.005 0.005 0.007 5 Needles N=26 N=44 N=49 N=91 N=145

TP (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.012 0.03 0.02 0.026 0.026 0.052 Hampden Bridge N=171 N=53 N=70 N=92 N=423 N=106 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.04 0.04 0.01 0.043 @ Bendoura N=34 N=58 N=63 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.011 0.01 0.037 Mongarlowe N=61 N=58 N=123 N=51 N=48 N=86 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.01 0.03 0.01 0.013 0.084 0.03 Fossickers Flat N=104 N=72 N=72 N=43 N=66 N=128 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.013 0.01 0.005 Tallowa Dam N=32 N=27 N=36 N=43 N=38 N=44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.03 0.01 0.02 0.0155 0.02 0.036 Mount View N=44 N=44 N=63 N=58 N=132 N=153 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.0145 0.03 0.03 0.016 0.012 0.021 Hillview N=102 N=55 N=157 N=58 N=137 N=97 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.022 N=36 N=38 N=55 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.012 0.0075 0.02 N=16 N=38 N=48 N=44 N=20 N=38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.02 0.07 0.02 0.027 0.03 0.0905 Braidwood N=39 N=49 N=44 N=47 N=78 N=80 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.008 0.005 0.005 N=32 N=161 N=170 N=44 N=19 N=38 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.01 0.04 0.06 0.06 Minshull Trig N=8 N=79 N=64 N=17

266 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Conductivity (mS/cm) – Coxs River Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 Coxs River U/S Kangaroo Upper Coxs River 0.04 0.035 0.040 Creek N=16 N=8 N=24 Neubecks Creek Upper Coxs River 0.4 1.355 0.445 N=31 N=18 N=48 Coxs River D/S Sawyers Upper Coxs River 0.374 0.51 0.69 0.833 0.676 Swamp Creek to Pipers N=57 N=13 N=36 N=56 N=33 Flat Creek Pipers Flat Creek Upper Coxs River 0.440 0.29 0.375 0.447 0.464 N=10 N=21 N=71 N=94 N=26 Coxs River D/S Lake Upper Coxs River 1.08 0.658 0.794 0.785 0.761 Wallace to Blowdown N=33 N=12 N=36 N=48 N=15 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.344 0.694 0.465 1.6 Blowdown to N=37 N=1 N=1 N=5 Marrangaroo Creek Marrangaroo Creek Upper Coxs River 0.048 0.055 0.05 N=32 N=8 N=22 Coxs River D/S Upper Coxs River 0.182 0.356 0.925 1.128 1.081 Marrangaroo Creek N=15 N=12 N=36 N=43 N=15 Farmers Creek near Lake Upper Coxs River 0.37 0.205 0.266 0.281 0.242 Lyell N=13 N=12 N=35 N=51 N=53 Coxs River below Lake Mid Coxs River 0.197 0.519 0.293 0.378 0.633 0.506 Lyell to Glenroy N=134 N=4 N=24 N=72 N=80 N=31 River Lett Mid Coxs River 0.186 0.149 0.14 N=72 N=6 N=24 Coxs River Downstream Mid Coxs River 0.223 0.499 0.261 Glenroy to Duddawarra N=42 N=7 N=6 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Mid Coxs River 0.18 0.117 0.136 0.103 0.116 0.141 Point N=80 N=134 N=246 N=201 N=277 N=66

Appendix G 267 Conductivity (mS/cm) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.101 N=37 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.132 N=36 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.092 0.073 0.066 0.078 0.0775 0.072 N=92 N=152 N=208 N=207 N=248 N=90 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.1 0.073 0.067 0.063 0.065 0.075 Maxwells Crossing N=89 N=136 N=148 N=150 N=170 N=123 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 0.474 0.484 0.363 Mittagong STP N=34 N=51 N=99 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.2465 0.22 0.185 0.356 0.2435 0.354 N=84 N=131 N=102 N=112 N=192 N=58 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.2335 0.183 0.187 0.273 0.306 0.303 Smallwoods Crossing N=80 N=77 N=89 N=66 N=27 N=35 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.142 0.086 0.078 0.1455 0.136 0.136 W4I N=57 N=57 N=79 N=72 N=36 N=38 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.0915 0.103 Sheepwash Bridge N=16 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.1935 0.104 0.125 0.1665 0.119 0.127 Berrima N=72 N=78 N=99 N=138 N=97 N=50 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.6765 0.476 0.405 0.9625 0.4305 0.693 Murrays Flat N=110 N=217 N=300 N=68 N=170 N=88 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.431 0.353 0.4415 0.4515 0.577 0.3 Golden Valley N=104 N=267 N=324 N=132 N=137 N=37 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.747 0.3 0.5525 0.5975 0.353 0.778 Towers Weir N=78 N=73 N=78 N=86 N=61 N=15 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.365 0.345 0.329 0.341 0.172 0.194 Joorilands N=89 N=145 N=199 N=363 N=288 N=87 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.41 0.3 0.297 0.32 0.286 0.277 Werombi N=99 N=209 N=216 N=379 N=401 N=124 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.122 0.105 0.096 0.0945 0.105 Lake Nepean N=3 N=203 N=187 N=124 N=10 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.091 0.097 0.098 McGuires Crossing N=33 N=40 N=41 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.069 0.057 0.064 0.07 0.075 0.073 Lake Nepean N=11 N=295 N=184 N=383 N=352 N=191

268 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Conductivity (mS/cm) - Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.219 0.143 N=8 N=159 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.163 0.285 N=54 N=3 DS Waratah Rivulet DS PUR Woronora 0.192 N=537 US Waratah Rivulet US PUR Woronora 0.193 N=356 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.182 0.105 0.15 0.14 0.143 5 Needles N=57 N=118 N=118 N=148 N=147

Appendix G 269 Conductivity (mS/cm) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.0805 0.075 0.088 0.075 0.082 0.082 Hampden Bridge N=46 N=332 N=245 N=388 N=991 N=117 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.109 0.073 0.0955 @ Bendoura N=164 N=182 N=82 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.058 0.051 0.041 0.046 0.049 0.05 Mongarlowe N=21 N=126 N=106 N=180 N=137 N=91 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.134 0.098 0.087 0.104 0.111 Fossickers Flat N=161 N=209 N=272 N=162 N=142 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.097 0.096 0.107 0.1065 Tallowa Dam N=12 N=39 N=38 N=40 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.111 0.09 0.088 0.09 0.094 0.076 Mount View N=1 N=225 N=354 N=199 N=394 N=153 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.106 0.115 0.103 0.094 0.104 0.096 Hillview N=40 N=255 N=394 N=315 N=378 N=103 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.181 0.191 0.152 N=184 N=216 N=55 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.225 0.136 0.115 0.0795 0.074 N=162 N=138 N=89 N=20 N=37 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.193 0.153 0.284 0.465 0.384 Braidwood N=31 N=67 N=121 N=155 N=79 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.065 0.046 0.052 0.05 0.054 N=303 N=240 N=164 N=19 N=37 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.342 0.18 0.174 Minshull Trig N=215 N=77 N=17

270 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Chlorophyll a (µg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 0.88 0.4 0.3 0.5 0.9 0.9 Point n=3 N=11 N=74 N=45 N=54 N=41 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.4 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 2.4 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 1.3 0.2 0.65 0.6 0.7 N=13 N=65 N=46 N=53 N=43 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.53 1.1 0.5 0.7 0.8 0.4 Maxwells Crossing N=4 N=14 N=64 N=48 N=51 N=46 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 2 2.2 3.05 Mittagong STP N=35 N=38 N=40 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 7.5 2.15 1.4 1.8 1.9 N=12 N=48 N=51 N=54 N=41 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.36 2.05 1.3 2.2 2.5 2.35 Smallwoods Crossing N=1 N=6 N=48 N=31 N=28 N=38 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.3 0.1 0.65 0.7 0.6 W4I N=10 N=46 N=38 N=36 N=40 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 4.11 15.8 7.8 8.5 Sheepwash Bridge N=7 N=2 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 29.35 9.34 14.65 12.9 19.05 15.8 Berrima N=50 N=4 N=50 N=57 N=52 N=41 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 152.49 8.26 4.8 6.9 7.55 4.45 Murrays Flat N=1 N=10 N=54 N=45 N=48 N=46 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 2.99 1.8 1.45 2.15 5.9 3.25 Golden Valley N=1 N=8 N=58 N=32 N=45 N=40 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 16.05 7.85 5.1 12.55 10.45 Towers Weir N=6 N=22 N=10 N=12 N=14 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 1.5 0.9 2.85 8.15 7.6 Joorilands N=7 N=69 N=64 N=72 N=43 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.96 2.4 0.9 1.7 2.2 2.7 Werombi N=1 N=13 N=61 N=43 N=47 N=47 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 4.3 0.5 0.6 0.4 Lake Nepean N=5 N=53 N=17 N=14 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.3 0.1 0.3 0.4 0.3 Lake Nepean N=6 N=56 N=59 N=52 N=45 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 2.8 5.75 1.9 McGuires Crossing N=42 N=40 N=45

Appendix G 271 Chlorophyll a (µg/L) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 2.4 0.9 0.1 N=1 N=8 N=45 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.35 N=54 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.6 0.6 0.7 1.1 0.95 5 Needles N=15 N=43 N=49 N=54 N=50

272 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Chlorophyll a (µg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.24 2 0.5 1.4 2.15 1.6 Hampden Bridge N=1 N=15 N=66 N=75 N=86 N=41 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 2.25 0.6 2.2 @ Bendoura N=10 N=51 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.25 0.3 0.7 0.85 1.1 Mongarlowe N=8 N=35 N=51 N=48 N=41 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.5 0.7 1.6 3.7 2.7 Fossickers Flat N=15 N=62 N=41 N=22 N=43 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 1 1.55 2 2.8 3.3 Tallowa Dam N=10 N=36 N=43 N=39 N=45 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.5 0.65 1.3 2.2 1.7 Mount View N=10 N=62 N=51 N=59 N=39 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 1.65 1 2.15 3 3.5 Hillview N=16 N=49 N=58 N=55 N=41 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.5 0.5 1 N=9 N=54 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 1.4 1.3 1 2.35 3 N=10 N=46 N=44 N=20 N=39 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.9 0.9 1.6 1.9 2.55 Braidwood N=7 N=39 N=47 N=41 N=40 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.4 0.5 0.6 1.1 0.8 N=11 N=43 N=44 N=19 N=41 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 3.4 1.95 4.9 Minshull Trig N=4 N=20 N=5

Appendix G 273 Dissolved Oxygen Saturation (%) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 96.89 92.28 98.62 96.18 94 95.55 Point n=11 N=26 N=39 N=40 N=39 N=39 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 82.02 N=37 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 81.3 N=35 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 96.09 91.77 95.88 94.48 93. 26 99.08 N=11 N=25 N=39 N=37 N=40 N=44 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 82.17 83.905 89.82 90.99 88.23 92.055 Maxwells Crossing N=11 N=26 N=39 N=39 N=40 N=42 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 77.9 81.51 83.17 Mittagong STP N=31 N=39 N=59 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 90.87 84.875 93.77 90.25 90.02 96.59 N=9 N=26 N=35 N=41 N=41 N=40 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 83.71 92.05 92.185 87.645 89.415 89.64 Smallwoods Crossing N=11 N=23 N=36 N=28 N=28 N=36 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 91 89.45 92.67 91.3 89.445 88.105 W4I N=9 N=26 N=37 N=37 N=36 N=38 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 80.79 89.92 93.94 Sheepwash Bridge N=17 N=17 N=21 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 87.75 73.38 82.8 89.81 89.15 89.7 Berrima N=47 N=23 N=33 N=49 N=49 N=40 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 81.79 69.21 81.04 92.27 82.74 71.75 Murrays Flat N=18 N=24 N=35 N=39 N=39 N=41 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 88.525 89.89 97.96 101.94 89.64 89.74 Golden Valley N=14 N=25 N=35 N=25 N=40 N=39 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 93.9 88.68 78.07 94.295 101.695 79.99 Towers Weir N=13 N=19 N=9 N=4 N=10 N=13 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 100.52 99.2 96.695 99.52 98.975 95.235 Joorilands N=11 N=23 N=38 N=50 N=56 N=46 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 78.1 71.52 76.72 71.94 65.65 71.3 Werombi N=9 N=25 N=37 N=35 N=37 N=42 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 87.785 89.01 91.36 93.065 97.9 Lake Nepean N=10 N=27 N=35 N=8 N=10

274 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 89.955 88.47 92.5 91.42 89.47 97.7 Lake Nepean N=10 N=27 N=35 N=39 N=39 N=130 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 87.71 92.49 91.59 90.61 McGuires Crossing N=3 N=33 N=40 N=41

Dissolved Oxygen Saturation (%) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 89.72 99.3 N=8 N=100 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 96.81 54.8 N=50 N=3 DS Waratah Rivulet DS PUR Woronora 61.9 485 US Waratah Rivulet US PUR Woronora 77 321 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 89.98 95.41 91.7 87.8 96.6 5 Needles N=19 N=31 N=40 N=36 N=62

Appendix G 275 Dissolved Oxygen Saturation (%) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 93.78 95.9 97.41 96.43 98.62 106.36 Hampden Bridge N=4 N=26 N=31 N=51 N=39 N=101 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 75.26 73.57 85.81 81.96 @ Bendoura N=9 N=24 N=34 N=3 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 82.46 83.88 88.66 90.96 87.37 97.3 Mongarlowe N=15 N=26 N=34 N=39 N=40 N=91 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 89.64 92.32 98.36 100.07 93.95 99.8 Fossickers Flat N=4 N=25 N=32 N=29 N=15 N=92 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 88.38 92.21 96.98 98.85 98.63 99.02 Tallowa Dam N=4 N=26 N=32 N=39 N=38 N=41 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 89.45 84.15 91.11 93.93 96.41 98.93 Mount View N=12 N=26 N=34 N=39 N=40 N=117 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 89.93 87.5 91.88 96.91 96.22 101.5 Hillview N=15 N=26 N=34 N=39 N=36 N=65 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 84.74 76.8 83.49 88.07 N=14 N=26 N=34 N=3 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 72.78 66.76 72.67 74.65 66.82 58.49 N=14 N=26 N=34 N=39 N=20 N=37 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 81.04 53.7 64.68 70.26 69.79 93.75 Braidwood N=14 N=25 N=34 N=38 N=36 N=80 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 81.68 83.31 88.75 89.47 83.64 90.94 N=6 N=26 N=34 N=35 N=19 N=37 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 87.56 74.55 74.74 86.85 Minshull Trig N=8 N=20 N=15 N=3

276 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Filterable reactive phosphorus (mg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 0.007 0.005 0.005 0.004 0.0025 0.0025 Point n=22 N=33 N=74 N=45 N=129 N=51 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.007 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.012 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.007 0.004 0.005 0.005 0.0025 0.0025 N=35 N=35 N=65 N=46 N=104 N=53 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.075 0.43 0.01 0.007 0.0025 0.0025 Maxwells Crossing N=32 N=35 N=64 N=48 N=99 N=81 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 0.0275 0.021 0.014 Mittagong STP N=36 N=46 N=79 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.262 0.72 0.69 0.0475 0.0125 0.007 N=200 N=17 N=49 N=52 N=92 N=43 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.009 0.006 0.006 0.009 0.0025 0.0025 Smallwoods Crossing N=215 N=29 N=48 N=57 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.002 0.0015 0.003 0.004 0.0025 0.0025 W4I N=90 N=32 N=47 N=63 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.01 0.006 0.006 Sheepwash Bridge N=7 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.031 0.02 0.01 0.014 0.007 0.0025 Berrima N=17 N=11 N=49 N=57 N=63 N=48 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.048 0.13 0.13 0.386 0.033 0.0065 Murrays Flat N=365 N=17 N=55 N=45 N=120 N=74 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.01 0.008 0.01 0.008 0.006 0.0025 Golden Valley N=245 N=15 N=59 N=33 N=58 N=38 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.016 0.04 0.065 0.05 0.021 0.004 Towers Weir N=229 N=9 N=22 N=10 N=39 N=16 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.0045 0.006 0.007 0.006 0.0025 0.0025 Joorilands N=14 N=50 N=69 N=71 N=165 N=66 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.006 0.0025 0.0075 0.007 0.0025 0.0025 Werombi N=37 N=40 N=62 N=80 N=150 N=84 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.0055 0.0045 0.007 0.007 0.0015 Lake Nepean N=18 N=16 N=55 N=42 N=14

Appendix G 277 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.0015 0.0035 0.004 0.005 0.0025 0.0025 Lake Nepean N=16 N=24 N=58 N=128 N=102 N=69 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.0095 0.006 0.0035 0.0025 McGuires Crossing N=4 N=42 N=40 N=42

Filterable reactive phosphorus (mg/L) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.0015 0.006 0.0025 0.0025 N=2 N=1 N=8 N=80 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.0025 0.004 0.003 N=2 N=88 N=1 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.0025 0.003 0.003 0.0025 0.0025 5 Needles N=26 N=44 N=49 N=91 N=120

278 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Filterable reactive phosphorus (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.008 0.01 0.01 0.013 0.0025 0.004 Hampden Bridge N =81 N =44 N =70 N =78 N =404 N =57 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.01 0.01 0.008 0.024 @ Bendoura N =30 N =31 N =51 N =9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.02 0.006 0.007 0.007 0.0045 0.0025 Mongarlowe N =38 N =27 N =45 N =51 N =48 N =41 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.006 0.007 0.008 0.0075 0.0025 0.0025 Fossickers Flat N =55 N =41 N =61 N =42 N =61 N =54 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.007 0.01 0.007 0.006 0.0025 0.0025 Tallowa Dam N =4 N =27 N =36 N =43 N =38 N =44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.01 0.008 0.01 0.009 0.0025 0.003 Mount View N =36 N =33 N =62 N =52 N =127 N =39 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.006 0.009 0.01 0.007 0.0025 0.0025 Hillview N =21 N =43 N =57 N =58 N =138 N =49 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.005 0.005 0.006 0.012 N =34 N =36 N =54 N =7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.006 0.0085 0.008 0.007 0.0025 0.004 N =14 N =34 N =48 N =44 N =20 N =38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.008 0.01 0.01 0.012 0.009 0.0025 Braidwood N =37 N =40 N =42 N =47 N =63 N =40 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.009 0.004 0.004 0.004 .0025 0.0025 N =7 N =31 N =43 N =44 N =19 N =39 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.0065 0.006 0.008 0.011 Minshull Trig N =8 N =21 N =20 N =5

Appendix G 279 Oxidised nitrogen (mg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 0.005 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.018 0.01 Point n=92 N=32 N=74 N=46 N=123 N=48 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.02 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.02 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.005 0.02 0.03 0.01 0.095 0.015 N=96 N=35 N=65 N=47 N=101 N=51 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 1.41 1.85 0.12 0.19 0.143 0.138 Maxwells Crossing N=108 N=35 N=64 N=52 N=97 N=77 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 3.3 4.29 3.64 Mittagong STP N=36 N=42 N=39 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.95 1.67 1.4 0.72 0.7175 0.9 N=247 N=17 N=49 N=52 N=92 N=43 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.11 0.0585 0.015 Smallwoods Crossing N=333 N=29 N=48 N=57 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.05 0.02 0.005 W4I N=133 N=33 N=47 N=41 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.27 0.1 0.065 Sheepwash Bridge N=17 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.075 0.5 0.41 0.3 0.17 0.104 Berrima N=90 N=11 N=49 N=57 N=63 N=48 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.18 0.49 0.35 0.11 0.227 0.011 Murrays Flat N=423 N=17 N=55 N=45 N=120 N=74 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.005 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.015 0.005 Golden Valley N=304 N=15 N=59 N=33 N=57 N=38 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.005 0.82 0.21 0.13 0.177 0.079 Towers Weir N=264 N=9 N=22 N=10 N=39 N=16 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.005 0.17 0.02 0.015 0.178 0.0175 Joorilands N=85 N=63 N=69 N=72 N=156 N=64 GMC Rossi Weir Upper Wollondilly 0.03 0.005 N=21 N=35 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.13 0.04 0.07 0.075 0.1445 0.0805 Werombi N=206 N=40 N=62 N=56 N=142 N=72

280 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.22 0.24 0.31 0.32 0.1435 Lake Nepean N=97 N=16 N=55 N=18 N=14 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.005 Lake Nepean N=95 N=24 N=58 N=62 N=101 N=69 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.33 0.085 0.1 0.218 McGuires Crossing N=29 N=42 N=40 N=42

Oxidised nitrogen (mg/L) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 N=13 N=1 N=8 N=80 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.01 0.03 0.01 N=14 N=88 N=12 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.02 0.02 0.01 0.063 0.057 5 Needles N=26 N=44 N=49 N=91 N=120

Appendix G 281 Oxidised nitrogen (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.12 0.14 0.1 0.11 0.14 0.135 Hampden Bridge N=169 N=47 N=70 N=78 N=403 N=45 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.22 0.005 0.005 0.01 @ Bendoura N=27 N=31 N=51 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.005 0.005 0.005 Mongarlowe N=46 N=27 N=45 N=51 N=48 N=41 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.13 0.016 Fossickers Flat N=100 N=41 N=62 N=42 N=61 N=54 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.07 0.11 0.08 0.11 0.1535 0.116 Tallowa Dam N=23 N=27 N=36 N=43 N=38 N=44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.01 0.01 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 Mount View N=26 N= 33 N=62 N=52 N=127 N=39 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.005 0.01 0.005 0.005 0.01 0.005 Hillview N=25 N=43 N=57 N=58 N=138 N=49 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 N=23 N=36 N=54 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.01 0.01 0.0075 0.005 0.005 0.005 N= 4 N=34 N= 48 N=44 N=20 N=38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.01 0.115 0.01 0.01 0.04 0.005 Braidwood N=27 N=40 N=43 N=47 N=63 N=40 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 N=4 N=31 N=43 N=44 N=19 N=39 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.0075 0.01 0.005 0.01 Minshull Trig N=4 N=21 N=20 N=5

282 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment pH – Hawkesbury–Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 7.9 7.53 7.6 7.5 7.5 7.435 Point n=84 N=27 N=40 N=42 N=64 N=38 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 7.4 N=37 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 7.25 N=36 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 7.955 7.63 7.5 7.3 7.2 7.3 N=76 N=27 N=39 N=39 N=41 N=43 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 6.925 7.01 7.2 7 6.8 6.9 Maxwells Crossing N=82 N=26 N=39 N=41 N=40 N=42 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 7.2 7.15 7.09 7.24 Mittagong STP N=1 N=32 N=39 N=59 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 7.64 7.5 7.72 7.3 7.3 7.61 N=83 N=26 N=35 N=41 N=48 N=37 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 7.59 7.34 7.4 7.2 7.19 7.2 Smallwoods Crossing N=277 N=23 N=37 N=30 N=28 N=36 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 7 7.15 6.9 6.7 6.7 6.71 W4I N=67 N=26 N=37 N=39 N=36 N=36 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 7.53 6.9 6.9 Sheepwash Bridge N=18 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 8.32 7.26 7.25 7.2 7 7.205 Berrima N=125 N=23 N=34 N=49 N=49 N=40 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 7.805 7.56 7.63 7.9 7.5 7.4 Murrays Flat N=92 N=26 N=35 N=39 N=39 N=39 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 7.805 7.98 7.87 8.2 7.4 7.4 Golden Valley N=88 N=25 N=35 N=25 N=39 N=38 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 8.26 7.8 7.92 8 8 8.33 Towers Weir N=88 N=20 N=11 N=4 N=10 N=13 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 8.28 8.245 7.95 7.7 7.4 7.6 Joorilands N=84 N=24 N=39 N=51 N=85 N=47 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 7.63 7.07 7 6.8 6.615 6.725 Werombi N=204 N=25 N=38 N=139 N=88 N=42 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 7.205 7.31 7.1 7.2 7.2 Lake Nepean N=104 N=27 N=35 N=8 N=10

Appendix G 283 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 6.685 7.13 6.9 6.7 6.78 6.2 Lake Nepean N=122 N=26 N=35 N=39 N=40 N=130 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 7.09 7.1 7 7.06 McGuires Crossing N=35 N=33 N=40 N=41 pH – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 6.09 6.5 5.8 N=51 N=7 N=96 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 6.98 7.2 6.63 N=52 N=50 N=3 GO51 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 7.43 7.1 6.9 6.8 6.6 5 Needles N=18 N=34 N=41 N=53 N=60

284 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment pH – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 7.25 7.36 7.3 7.1 7 6.8 Hampden Bridge N=177 N=26 N=34 N=51 N=57 N=101 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 7.4 7.26 7.08 7.1 @ Bendoura N=9 N=24 N=34 N=3 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 7.11 7.27 7.05 7 6.8 6.6 Mongarlowe N=35 N=26 N=34 N=40 N=41 N=91 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 7.62 7.42 7.5 7.4 7.14 7 Fossickers Flat N=113 N=25 N=33 N=29 N=15 N=92 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 7.35 7.23 7.2 7 7.08 7.1 Tallowa Dam N=41 N=25 N=33 N=39 N=38 N=41 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 7.6 7.47 7.5 7.75 7.6 6.9 Mount View N=15 N=26 N=35 N=40 N=71 N=115 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 7.53 7.66 7.4 7.7 7.6 7.2 Hillview N=38 N=26 N=35 N=40 N=55 N=63 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 6.93 7.5 7.2 7.1 N=14 N=26 N=34 N=3 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 6.91 7.02 6.76 6.5 6.35 6.3 N=15 N=26 N=34 N=39 N=20 N=35 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 7.21 7.39 7.27 7.3 7.21 7.4 Braidwood N=15 N=25 N=34 N=39 N=36 N=80 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 7.01 7.27 6.7 6.7 6.23 6.32 N=6 N=26 N=34 N=35 N=19 N=34 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 7.82 7.26 7.18 7.1 Minshull Trig N=8 N=20 N=16 N=3

Appendix G 285 Total Aluminium (mg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E083 Coxs River @ Kelpie Lower Coxs 0.0245 0.019 0.08 0.01 0.16 0.07 Point N=86 N=37 N=80 N=50 N=140 N=81 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.062 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.159 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.028 0.099 0.034 0.0165 0.1 0.08 N=92 N=62 N=68 N=48 N=114 N=164 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.07 0.109 0.1185 0.053 0.255 0.47 Maxwells Crossing N=103 N=41 N=72 N=53 N=98 N=138 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 0.472 0.5215 0.59 Mittagong STP N=35 N=40 N=39 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.1245 0.246 0.046 0.024 0.367 0.3 N=40 N=26 N=49 N=51 N=104 N=98 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.032 0.026 0.025 0.225 0.124 0.04 Smallwoods Crossing N=144 N=35 N=52 N=63 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.017 0.021 0.019 0.056 0.047 0.03 W4I N=68 N=37 N=47 N=41 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.067 0.116 Sheepwash Bridge N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.098 0.1685 0.203 0.183 0.418 0.46 Berrima N=40 N=32 N=48 N=57 N=63 N=81 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.1205 0.084 0.0995 0.03 1.515 0.12 Murrays Flat N=52 N=17 N=56 N=45 N=118 N=159 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.116 0.245 0.1265 0.02 0.055 0.21 Golden Valley N=49 N=21 N=74 N=33 N=60 N=77 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.0425 0.315 0.578 0.4085 1.09 0.195 Towers Weir N=34 N=9 N=23 N=10 N=39 N=20 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.0965 0.6005 0.1945 0.13 0.93 0.49 Joorilands N=86 N=66 N=74 N=73 N=157 N=113 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.095 0.1155 0.193 0.0705 0.37 0.26 Werombi N=165 N=50 N=69 N=56 N=144 N=144 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.127 0.124 0.115 0.1885 0.04 Lake Nepean N=105 N=41 N=55 N=18 N=14

286 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.063 0.0935 0.143 0.07 0.1145 0.18 Lake Nepean N=119 N=48 N=62 N=65 N=140 N=193 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.359 0.0535 0.12 0.09 McGuires Crossing N=21 N=42 N=40 N=42

Total Aluminium (mg/L) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.077 0.138 0.055 0.31 N=33 N=1 N=8 N=153 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.049 0.101 0.005 N=37 N=95 N=12 GO515 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.1205 0.096 0.045 0.393 0.57 Needles N=26 N=44 N=49 N=90 N=139

Appendix G 287 Total Aluminium (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.135 0.277 0.2685 0.319 0.4 0.53 Hampden Bridge N=106 N=53 N=70 N=81 N=422 N=105 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.255 0.142 0.098 0.669 @ Bendoura N=34 N=33 N=51 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.101 0.15 0.1335 0.069 0.084 0.32 Mongarlowe N=61 N=42 N=60 N=51 N=48 N=86 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.1495 0.286 0.4385 0.171 2.415 0.785 Fossickers Flat N=60 N=47 N=72 N=43 N=66 N=128 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 0.435 0.374 0.2925 0.163 0.1235 0.08 Tallowa Dam N=64 N=27 N=36 N=43 N=38 N=44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.2585 0.323 0.356 0.1065 0.145 0.47 Mount View N=44 N=39 N=63 N=58 N=128 N=153 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.328 0.696 0.6745 0.1495 0.174 0.2 Hillview N=49 N=51 N=94 N=58 N=136 N=96 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.0535 0.5705 0.351 0.948 N=36 N=38 N=55 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.302 0.527 0.387 0.226 0.16 0.18 N=16 N=37 N=48 N=44 N=20 N=38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.013 0.01 0.01 0.005 0.056 0.28 Braidwood N=39 N=26 N=43 N=47 N=73 N=79 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.342 0.4495 0.266 0.253 0.15 0.2 N=32 N=60 N=53 N=44 N=19 N=39 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.147 1.18 1.24 3.43 Minshull Trig N=8 N=25 N=21 N=17

288 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Total Iron (mg/L) – Hawkesbury-Nepean Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E110 Hollander River Kowmung 0.148 N=38 E120 Tuglow River Kowmung 0.387 N=37 E130 Kowmung River Kowmung 0.039 0.119 0.0575 0.06 0.14 0.16 N=93 N=62 N=68 N=47 N=114 N=164 E157 Kedumba River @ Lower Coxs 0.23 0.191 0.304 0.2265 0.405 1.86 Maxwells Crossing N=101 N=41 N=72 N=52 N=98 N=138 E203 Gibbergunyah Creek @ Nattai 0.351 0.295 0.33 Mittagong STP N=35 N=40 N=39 E206 Nattai River @ The Crags Nattai 0.355 0.661 0.174 0.116 0.615 0.465 N=40 N=26 N=49 N=51 N=104 N=98 E210 Nattai River @ Nattai 0.32 0.281 0.343 0.8055 0.8085 0.65 Smallwoods Crossing N=245 N=35 N=52 N=62 N=28 N=37 E243 Little River @ Fireroad Little 0.075 0.115 0.129 0.4205 0.36 0.33 W41 N=69 N=37 N=47 N=40 N=36 N=39 E303 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.42 0.268 0.3975 Sheepwash Bridge N=1 N=17 N=16 E332 Wingecarribee River @ Wingecarribee 0.37 0.673 0.3985 0.43 0.661 0.7 Berrima N=39 N=32 N=48 N=57 N=63 N=81 E409 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.3995 0.586 0.3645 0.173 1.495 0.72 Murrays Flat N=52 N=17 N=56 N=45 N=118 N=159 E450 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.315 0.686 0.5095 0.237 0.6 1.01 Golden Valley N=49 N=21 N=74 N=33 N=60 N=77 E457 Mulwaree River @ Mulwaree 0.162 0.547 0.583 0.732 1.12 0.38 Towers Weir N=35 N=9 N=23 N=10 N=39 N=20 E488 Wollondilly River @ Wollondilly 0.204 0.513 0.3205 0.2875 1.34 0.78 Joorilands N=86 N=66 N=74 N=72 N=157 N=113

GMC Rossi Weir Upper Wollondilly 0.37 0.415 N=23 N=36 E531 Werriberri Creek @ Werriberri 0.979 1.1065 1.28 0.7365 2.065 1.1 Werombi N=205 N=50 N=69 N=54 N=144 N=144 E601 Nepean River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.908 0.913 0.779 0.8265 0.735 Lake Nepean N=124 N=41 N=55 N=18 N=14

Appendix G 289 E602 Burke River @ Inflow to Upper Nepean 0.704 0.8 0.7315 0.764 0.7 0.64 Lake Nepean N=141 N=48 N=62 N=65 N=140 N=193 E697 Nepean River @ Upper Nepean 0.8535 0.662 0.597 0.635 McGuires Crossing N=34 N=42 N=40 N=42

Total Iron (mg/L) – Woronora Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E677 Woronora River Inflow Woronora 0.355 1.52 0.215 0.39 N=60 N=1 N=8 N=153 E678 Waratah Rivulet Woronora 0.225 0.655 0.8295 N=60 N=95 N=12 GO515 Woronora River @ The Woronora DS Dam 0.31 0.299 0.2945 0.25 0.339 0.52 Needles N=3 N=26 N=44 N=49 N=90 N=139

290 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Total Iron (mg/L) – Shoalhaven Catchment Site Site name Sub-catchment Period code Historic 1995/1998 1998– 2001– 2004/2007 2007/2010 2001 2004 E706 Kangaroo River @ Kangaroo River 0.43 0.45 0.473 0.556 0.61 0.76 Hampden Bridge N=179 N=53 N=70 N=81 N=422 N=105 E809 Jembaicumbene Creek Upper Shoalhaven 0.980 1.191 0.81 1.19 @ Bendoura N=34 N=33 N=51 N=9 E822 Mongarlowe River @ Mongarlowe 0.457 0.429 0.395 0.347 0.392 0.525 Mongarlowe N=61 N=42 N=60 N=51 N=48 N=86 E847 Shoalhaven River @ Bungonia 0.34 0.345 0.456 0.351 2.955 1.165 Fossickers Flat N=111 N=47 N=72 N=43 N=66 N=128 E851 Shoalhaven River @ D/S 2.7 5.42 3.31 3.93 2.95 0.97 Tallowa Dam N=49 N=27 N=36 N=43 N=38 N=44 E860 Shoalhaven River @ Braidwood Creek 0.492 0.545 0.588 0.473 0.605 0.76 Mount View N=44 N=39 N=63 N=58 N=128 N=153 E861 Shoalhaven River @ Mid Shoalhaven 0.452 0.64 0.752 0.382 0.466 0.6 Hillview N=49 N=51 N=94 N=58 N=136 N=96 E889 Reedy Creek @ Manar Reedy Creek 0.293 0.790 0.715 1.55 N=36 N=38 N=55 N=7 E890 Boro Creek @ Marlowe Boro Creek 0.548 0.838 0.678 0.657 1.04 1.0 N=16 N=37 N=48 N=44 N=20 N=38 E891 Gillamatong Creek @ Braidwood Creek 0.154 0.503 0.543 0.858 0.86 1.47 Braidwood N=39 N=26 N=43 N=47 N=73 N=79 E8311 Corang River Mid Shoalhaven 0.918 0.398 0.375 0.338 0.34 0.32 N=32 N=60 N=53 N=44 N=19 N=39 E8361 Nerrimunga Creek @ Nerrimunga River 0.327 0.928 1.46 5.16 Minshull Trig N=8 N=25 N=21 N=17

Appendix G 291 Dam and Reservoir Water Quality TN (mg/L) Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995– 1998– 2001– 2004– 2007– 1998 2001 2004 2007 2010 TC1 Thompsons Ck Dam Upper Coxs River 0.326 0.391 0.41 0.65 N=11 N=36 N=47 N=12 Lake Lyell Upper Coxs River 0.66 0.743 0.755 0.93 1.89 N=51 N=11 N=42 N=56 N=42 Lake Wallace Upper Coxs River 0.7 0.716 0.7 0.7 N=11 N=36 N=36 N=12

DLC1 Lower Cascade Dam Grose 0.19 0.26 0.25 0.27 0.2 0.2 N=66 N=39 N=33 N=39 N=60 N=77 DTC1 Top Cascade Dam Grose 0.25 0.36 0.36 0.36 0.3 0.175 N=66 N=39 N=25 N=54 N=63 N=88 DGC1 Greaves Creek Dam Grose 0.15 0.22 0.205 0.225 0.2 0.13 N=68 N=39 N=26 N=42 N=65 N=74 DWC1 Woodford Creek Dam Grose 0.24 0.3 0.29 N=68 N=39 N=12

DWA2 Lake Burragorang @ 500m Lake Burragorang 0.3 0.26 0.3 0.235 0.23 0.27 u/s Dam Wall 61 157 204 252 262 263 DWA9 Lake Burragorang @ 14km Lake Burragorang 0.31 0.25 0.3 0.23 0.24 0.28 u/s Dam Wall N=63 N=158 N=205 N=233 N=250 N=237 DWA12 Lake Burragorang @ 9km Lake Burragorang 0.3 0.26 0.3 0.24 0.255 0.29 u/s Coxs River N=68 N=157 N=223 N=233 N=230 N=231 DWA19 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.775 0.555 0.29 0.28 Kedumba River Arm N=58 N=74 N=78 N=97 DWA21 Lake Burragorang @ Coxs Lake Burragorang 0.28 0.23 0.28 0.25 Arm 37km u/s Dam N=76 N=72 N=78 N=114 DWA27 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.3 0.26 0.31 0.24 0.25 0.3 Wollondilly Arm 23km u/s N=69 N=160 N=219 N=231 N=236 N=201 Dam DWA39 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.31 0.32 0.34 0.29 0.3 Wollondilly Arm 40km u/s N=63 N=128 N=216 N=225 N=6 Dam

RPR1 Lake Prospect @ Midlake Prospect 0.44 0.26 0.29 0.27 0.28 0.2 N=65 N=180 N=266 N=133 N=234 N=207

292 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 DWO1 Lake Woronora @ Dam Wall Woronora 0.19 0.23 0.22 0.19 0.2 0.2 N=80 N=51 N=26 N=58 N=47 N=87 DWO3 Woronora River 3km u/s Woronora 0.2 Dam Wall N=31 DWO4 Woronora Dam U/S Island Woronora 0.2 Waratah R. 3km u/s N=30

DCA1 Lake Cataract @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.17 0.23 0.22 0.24 0.21 0.2 N=57 N=38 N=25 N=34 N=89 N=115 DCA2 Lake Cataract @ Cataract Upper Nepean 0.17 0.215 Arm 5km U/S N=42 N=14 DCA3 Lake Cataract @ Lodden Upper Nepean 0.165 0.205 Arm 4.5km U/S N=40 N=14

DCO1 Lake Cordeaux @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.2 0.25 0.26 0.31 0.3 0.295 N=47 N=38 N=24 N=33 N=88 N=108 DCO3 Lake Cordeaux @ Junction Upper Nepean 0.2 0.29 of Kentish Ck & Cordeaux R N=31 N=13 DCO4 Lake Cordeaux @ Upper Nepean 0.205 0.28 Goondarin Ck N=30 N=13

DAV1 Lake Avon @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.16 0.25 0.2 0.2 N=52 N=15 N=62 N=138 DAV6 Lake Avon @ 7km u/s Dam Upper Nepean 0.14 0.2 0.2 Wall N=36 N=27 N=15 DAV7 Lake Avon @ Upper Avon Upper Nepean 0.17 0.22 0.21 0.19 0.2 0.2 Valve Chamber N=97 N=51 N=25 N=49 N=96 N=109

DNE2 Lake Nepean @ 300m u/s Upper Nepean 0.36 0.41 0.38 0.33 0.38 0.31 Dam Wall N=82 N=37 N=25 N=36 N=35 N=77 DNE5 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 1 Upper Nepean 0.35 0.4 N=74 N=9 DNE7 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 2 Upper Nepean 0.36 0.48 0.3 0.32 N=73 N=9 N=9 N=9

Appendix G 293

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010

DWI1 Wingecarribee lake @ Outlet Wingecarribee 0.47 0.495 0.61 0.46 0.4 0.3 N=52 N=28 N=29 N=66 N=103 N=108

DFF6 Lake Fitzroy Falls @ Dam Kangaroo River 0.38 0.35 0.37 0.52 0.4 0.3 Wall 53 N=39 N=28 N=55 N=79 N=181

DBP1 Kangaroo Valley WFP Raw Kangaroo River 0.35 0.37 Water N=15 N=1

DTA1 Lake Yarrunga @ 100m Kangaroo River 0.35 0.36 0.37 0.37 0.4 0.31 from Dam Wall N=43 N=39 N=37 N=35 N=83 N=104 DTA3 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.345 0.37 0.37 0.355 0.4 0.3 and Yarrunga Jn. N=43 N=39 N=26 N=36 N=45 N=77 DTA5 Lake Yarrunga @ Bungonia 0.35 0.36 0.35 0.38 0.4 0.3 Shoalhaven River N=43 N=39 N=33 N=16 N=41 N=78 DTA8 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.375 0.315 0.31 0.4 0.3 R at Bendeela PS N=14 N=14 N=20 N=35 N=60 DTA10 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.34 0.36 0.37 0.38 0.4 0.3 Arm Reed Island N=43 N=32 N=23 N=19 N=33 N=78

Pejar Pejar Dam Upper Wollondilly

Sooley Sooley Dam Upper Wollondilly

294 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment TP (mg/L) Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 TC1 Thompsons Ck Dam Upper Coxs River 0.0065 0.02 0.02 0.02 N=12 N=36 N=41 N=12 Lake Wallace Upper Coxs River 0.026 0.062 0.153 0.16 0.08 N=23 N=12 N=36 N=34 N=12 Lake Lyell Upper Coxs River 0.432 0.14 0.235 0.24 0.1 N=90 N=12 N=42 N=53 N=41

DLC1 Lower Cascade Dam Grose 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 N=218 N=39 N=33 N=39 N=60 N=81 DTC1 Top Cascade Dam Grose 0.005 0.009 0.009 0.007 0.005 0.0025 N=163 N=39 N=25 N=54 N=63 N=88 DGC1 Greaves Creek Dam Grose 0.005 0.006 0.006 0.006 0.005 0.005 N=170 N=39 N=26 N=42 N=65 N=74 DWC1 Woodford Creek Dam Grose 0.01 0.01 0.0075 N=189 N=39 N=12

DWA2 Lake Burragorang @ 500m Lake Burragorang 0.007 0.005 0.006 0.004 0.005 0.005 u/s Dam Wall N=521 N=158 v204 N=252 N=262 N=263 DWA9 Lake Burragorang @ 14km Lake Burragorang 0.006 0.005 0.006 0.004 0.005 0.005 u/s Dam Wall N=207 N=158 N=205 N=233 N=250 N=237 DWA12 Lake Burragorang @ 9km Lake Burragorang 0.006 0.006 0.006 0.005 0.005 0.005 u/s Coxs River N=177 N=158 N=223 N=235 N=230 N=231 DWA19 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.03 0.06 0.01 0.014 Kedumba River Arm N=330 N=74 N=78 N=97 DWA21 Lake Burragorang @ Coxs Lake Burragorang 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.012 Arm 37km u/s Dam N=289 N=72 N=78 N=114 DWA27 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.006 0.005 0.006 0.005 0.005 0.005 Wollondilly Arm 23km u/s N=174 N=160 N=219 N=231 N=236 N=201 Dam DWA39 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.008 0.01 0.01 0.011 0.025 Wollondilly Arm 40km u/s N=65 N=134 N=216 N=225 N=6 Dam

RPR1 Lake Prospect @ Midlake Prospect 0.004 0.006 0.006 0.006 0.005 0.005 N=69 N=168 N=266 N=133 N=234 N=207

Appendix G 295

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 DWO1 Lake Woronora @ Dam Wall Woronora 0.003 0.003 0.004 0.003 0.005 0.005 N=533 N=51 N=26 N=58 N=47 N=87 DWO3 Woronora River 3km u/s Woronora 0.003 Dam Wall N=134 DWO4 Woronora Dam U/S Island Woronora 0.003 Waratah R. 3km u/s N=127

DCA1 Lake Cataract @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.004 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 0.005 N=528 N=38 N=25 N=34 N=89 N=115 DCA2 Lake Cataract @ Cataract Upper Nepean 0.0045 0.0045 Arm 5km U/S N=142 N=14 DCA3 Lake Cataract @ Lodden Upper Nepean 0.004 0.0045 Arm 4.5km U/S N=138 N=14

DCO1 Lake Cordeaux @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.005 0.007 0.007 0.007 0.005 0.005 N=462 N=38 N=24 N=33 N=88 N=108 DCO3 Lake Cordeaux @ Junction Upper Nepean 0.006 0.01 of Kentish Ck & Cordeaux R N=116 N=13 DCO4 Lake Cordeaux @ Upper Nepean 0.007 0.007 Goondarin Ck N=118 N=13

DAV1 Lake Avon @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.003 0.004 0.005 0.005 N=555 N=15 N=62 N=138 DAV6 Lake Avon @ 7km u/s Dam Upper Nepean 0.003 0.004 0.005 Wall N=136 N=27 N=15 DAV7 Lake Avon @ Upper Avon Upper Nepean 0.005 0.005 0.006 0.005 0.005 0.005 Valve Chamber N=627 N=51 N=25 N=49 N=96 N=109

DNE2 Lake Nepean @ 300m u/s Upper Nepean 0.009 0.008 0.009 0.007 0.007 0.005 Dam Wall N=450 N=37 N=25 N=36 N=35 N=77 DNE5 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 1 Upper Nepean 0.008 0.01 N=187 N=9 DNE7 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 2 Upper Nepean 0.009 0.01 0.009 0.009 N=181 N=9 N=9 N=9

296 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010

DWI1 Wingecarribee lake @ Outlet Wingecarribee 0.01 0.02 0.03 0.019 0.017 0.0075 N=237 N=28 N=29 N=66 N=103 N=108

DFF6 Lake Fitzroy Falls @ Dam Kangaroo River 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.019 0.01 0.005 Wall N=148 N=39 N=28 N=55 N=79 N=181

DBP1 Kangaroo Valley WFP Raw Kangaroo River 0.01 0.019 Water N=63 N=1

DTA1 Lake Yarrunga @ 100m Kangaroo River 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.011 0.009 0.005 from Dam Wall N=270 N=39 N=37 N=35 N=83 N=104 DTA3 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.0125 0.01 0.005 and Yarrunga Jn. N=123 N=39 N=26 N=36 N=45 N=77 DTA5 Lake Yarrunga @ Bungonia 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.0135 0.005 0.005 Shoalhaven River N=90 N=39 N=33 N=16 N=41 N=78 DTA8 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.01 0.015 0.02 0.016 0.013 R at Bendeela PS N=123 N=14 N=20 N=35 N=60 DTA10 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.01 0.02 0.02 0.022 0.01 0.01 Arm Reed Island N=89 N=32 N=23 N=19 N=33 N=78

Pejar Pejar Dam Upper Wollondilly 0.04 N=13

Sooley Sooley Dam Upper Wollondilly 0.04 N=26

Appendix G 297 Chlorophyll a (µg/L) Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 Thompsons Ck Dam Upper Coxs River 5 2.8 2.5 2 N=10 N=33 N=30 N=12 Lake Wallace Upper Coxs River 5 6 3.5 2 N=12 N=33 N=30 N=12 Lake Lyell Upper Coxs River 28.3 5 5 7.8 3.6 N=2 N=12 N=39 N=48 N=42

DLC1 Lower Cascade Dam Grose 2.7 3.8 2.6 2.2 2.6 1.9 N=255 N=39 N=33 N=37 N=79 N=104 DTC1 Top Cascade Dam Grose 2.74 6.3 6.8 4.4 3.8 2 N=190 N=39 N=25 N=41 N=87 N=115 DGC1 Greaves Creek Dam Grose 2.71 3.1 3.3 3.3 4.7 1.9 N=193 N=39 N=26 N=38 N=89 N=97 DWC1 Woodford Creek Dam Grose 3 4.2 2.65 N=176 N=39 N=12

DWA2 Lake Burragorang @ 500m Lake Burragorang 2 2.4 2.8 2.5 2.8 5.2 u/s Dam Wall N=881 N=153 N=236 N=250 N=261 N=273 DWA9 Lake Burragorang @ 14km Lake Burragorang 1.62 2.3 2.8 2.2 3 4 u/s Dam Wall N=254 N=152 N=237 N=233 N=252 N=251 DWA12 Lake Burragorang @ 9km Lake Burragorang 1.75 2.3 2.8 2.35 3.1 3.9 u/s Coxs River N=221 N=153 N=218 N=234 N=237 N=233 DWA19 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 10.085 19.5 5.8 4.4 Kedumba River Arm N=488 N=75 N=79 N=135 DWA21 Lake Burragorang @ Coxs Lake Burragorang 5.705 3.7 4.9 2.8 Arm 37km u/s Dam N=282 N=74 N=77 N=154 DWA27 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 1.6 2.1 2.7 2.2 2.7 4.1 Wollondilly Arm 23km u/s N=210 N=154 N=216 N=231 N=236 N=214 Dam DWA39 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 2.055 4.2 5 3.8 Wollondilly Arm 40km u/s N=62 N=125 N=215 N=269 Dam

RPR1 Lake Prospect @ Midlake Prospect 2.3 3.6 3 1.8 3 2.7 N=94 N=187 N=265 N=82 N=201 N=224

298 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 DWO1 Lake Woronora @ Dam Wall Woronora 1.7 1.5 1.4 1.25 0.8 0.8 N=507 N=49 N=26 N=48 N=69 N=115 DWO3 Woronora River 3km u/s Woronora 1.74 Dam Wall N=144 DWO4 Woronora Dam U/S Island Woronora 1.53 Waratah R. 3km u/s N=142

DCA1 Lake Cataract @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 3.1 2.8 3.7 3.85 4.4 4.8 N=440 N=38 N=25 N=34 N=101 N=115 DCA2 Lake Cataract @ Cataract Upper Nepean 3.3 2.7 Arm 5km U/S N=167 N=14 DCA3 Lake Cataract @ Lodden Upper Nepean 3.69 2.95 Arm 4.5km U/S N=165 N=14

DCO1 Lake Cordeaux @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 4.4 4.25 5.2 5.1 6.1 6.55 N=396 N=38 N=24 N=35 N=85 N=108 DCO3 Lake Cordeaux @ Junction Upper Nepean 4.88 4.8 of Kentish Ck & Cordeaux R N=131 N=13 DCO4 Lake Cordeaux @ Upper Nepean 5.15 5.5 Goondarin Ck N=133 N=13

DAV1 Lake Avon @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 2.7 1.6 2.95 2.8 N=510 N=15 N=82 N=138 DAV6 Lake Avon @ 7km u/s Dam Upper Nepean 2.2 3 4.1 Wall N=139 N=27 N=15 DAV7 Lake Avon @ Upper Avon Upper Nepean 3.81 4.45 4.7 4.35 5 5.8 Valve Chamber N=572 N=50 N=25 N=52 N=98 N=106

DNE2 Lake Nepean @ 300m u/s Upper Nepean 3.1 3.8 3.15 3.2 4.4 3.65 Dam Wall N=495 N=38 N=26 N=38 N=32 N=78 DNE5 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 1 Upper Nepean 3.64 4.5 14 N=184 N=15 N=2 DNE7 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 2 Upper Nepean 4.28 5.2 16.1 3.25 4.9 N=181 N=15 N=2 N=8 N=9

Appendix G 299

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010

DWI1 Wingecarribee lake @ Outlet Wingecarribee 7.2 8.1 7.2 7.65 10.95 10.2 N=254 N=35 N=19 N=50 N=106 N=137

DFF6 Lake Fitzroy Falls @ Dam Kangaroo River 6.08 4.3 5.9 10.65 13.5 11.1 Wall N=165 N=39 N=27 N=36 N=55 N=81

DBP1 Kangaroo Valley WFP Raw Kangaroo River Water

DTA1 Lake Yarrunga @ 100m Kangaroo River 3.01 3.2 3.5 3.55 4 4.9 from Dam Wall N=249 N=39 N=38 N=44 N=82 N=107 DTA3 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 3.95 4.5 4.9 4.6 5.35 5.7 and Yarrunga Jn. N=150 N=38 N=27 N=44 N=44 N=81 DTA5 Lake Yarrunga @ Bungonia 1.92 2.3 2.3 2.7 5.65 4.9 Shoalhaven River N=119 N=39 N=34 N=39 N=76 N=105 DTA8 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 1.9 6.2 8.7 6.5 11.8 9.55 R at Bendeela PS N=114 N=1 N=1 N=11 N=50 N=78 DTA10 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 7.4 10.7 10.65 8.8 9.1 10.15 Arm Reed Island N=128 N=33 N=24 N=39 N=58 N=108

Pejar Pejar Dam Upper Wollondilly

Sooley Sooley Dam Upper Wollondilly

300 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment Conductivity (mS/cm) Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 TC1 Thompsons Ck Dam Upper Coxs River 0.266 0.321 0.512 0.590 N=10 N=35 N=46 N=12 Lake Wallace Upper Coxs River 0.469 0.607 0.802 0.765 0.779 N=23 N=10 N=36 N=35 N=12 Lake Lyell Upper Coxs River 0.189 0.301 0.415 0.647 0.520 N=114 N=10 N=37 N=-60 N=63

DLC1 Lower Cascade Dam Grose 0.065 0.072 0.073 0.066 N=111 N=102 N=117 N=107 DTC1 Top Cascade Dam Grose 0.054 0.067 0.057 0.046 N=111 N=100 N=111 N=114 DGC1 Greaves Creek Dam Grose 0.021 0.036 0.0205 0.019 N=111 N=100 N=156 N=105 DWC1 Woodford Creek Dam Grose

DWA2 Lake Burragorang @ 500m Lake Burragorang 0.196 0.175 0.171 0.184 0.164 u/s Dam Wall N=10 N=42 N=621 N=300 N=682 DWA9 Lake Burragorang @ 14km Lake Burragorang 0.191 0.171 0.18 0.184 0.162 u/s Dam Wall N=10 N=66 N=233 N=246 N=278 DWA12 Lake Burragorang @ 9km Lake Burragorang 0.189 0.167 0.181 0.181 0.156 u/s Coxs River N=10 N=66 N=175 N=222 N=243 DWA19 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.12 0.144 0.144 Kedumba River Arm N=7 N=66 N=79 DWA21 Lake Burragorang @ Coxs Lake Burragorang 0.11 0.143 0.139 Arm 37km u/s Dam N=9 N=66 N=77 DWA27 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.207 0.18 0.185 0.188 0.165 Wollondilly Arm 23km u/s N=10 N=66 N=176 N=228 N=267 Dam DWA39 Lake Burragorang @ Lake Burragorang 0.23 0.199 0.194 0.179 0.176 Wollondilly Arm 40km u/s N=9 N=63 N=155 N=58 N=12 Dam

RPR1 Lake Prospect @ Midlake Prospect 0.194 0.202 0.261 0.259 N=22 N=1765 N=927 N=2278

Appendix G 301

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010 DWO1 Lake Woronora @ Dam Wall Woronora 0.085 0.095 0.11 0.111 N=36 N=99 N=180 N=183 DWO3 Woronora River 3km u/s Woronora 0.0905 Dam Wall N=6 DWO4 Woronora Dam U/S Island Woronora 0.09 Waratah R. 3km u/s N=6

DCA1 Lake Cataract @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.067 0.0785 0.087 0.081 N=37 N=84 N=177 N=202 DCA2 Lake Cataract @ Cataract Upper Nepean Arm 5km U/S DCA3 Lake Cataract @ Lodden Upper Nepean Arm 4.5km U/S

DCO1 Lake Cordeaux @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.071 0.082 0.088 0.088 N=32 N=93 N=177 N=192 DCO3 Lake Cordeaux @ Junction Upper Nepean of Kentish Ck & Cordeaux R DCO4 Lake Cordeaux @ Upper Nepean Goondarin Ck

DAV1 Lake Avon @ Dam Wall Upper Nepean 0.067 0.069 0.071 N=36 N=241 N=214 DAV6 Lake Avon @ 7km u/s Dam Upper Nepean 0.067 0.065 Wall N=28 N=18 DAV7 Lake Avon @ Upper Avon Upper Nepean 0.0495 0.065 0.07 0.074 Valve Chamber N=36 N=132 N=247 N=174

DNE2 Lake Nepean @ 300m u/s Upper Nepean 0.0675 0.082 0.086 0.08 Dam Wall N=30 N=105 N=102 N=129 DNE5 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 1 Upper Nepean 0.054 N=3 DNE7 Lake Nepean @ Aerator 2 Upper Nepean 0.085 0.085 N=27 N=131

302 2010 Audit of the Sydney Drinking Water Catchment

Site code Site name Sub-catchment Period Historic 1995–1998 1998–2001 2001–2004 2004–2007 2007–2010

DWI1 Wingecarribee lake @ Outlet Wingecarribee 0.079 0.089 0.088 N=102 N=112 N=132

DFF6 Lake Fitzroy Falls @ Dam Kangaroo River 0.0685 0.08 0.091 0.093 Wall N=84 N=89 N=105 N=147

DBP1 Kangaroo Valley WFP Raw Kangaroo River 0.058 0.1 Water N=16 N=1

DTA1 Lake Yarrunga @ 100m Kangaroo River 0.089 0.0965 0.103 0.0995 from Dam Wall N=39 N=80 N=102 N=110 DTA3 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.077 0.089 0.1005 0.096 and Yarrunga Jn. N=39 N=81 N=84 N=117 DTA5 Lake Yarrunga @ Bungonia 0.096 0.1 0.105 0.1 Shoalhaven River N=39 N=81 N=102 N=111 DTA8 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.078 0.085 0.092 0.099 R at Bendeela PS N=116 N=75 N=83 N=113 DTA10 Lake Yarrunga @ Kangaroo Kangaroo River 0.073 0.088 0.098 0.094 Arm Reed Island N=39 N=83 N=84 N=117

Pejar Pejar Dam Upper Wollondilly

Sooley Sooley Dam Upper Wollondilly

Appendix G 303 www.environment.nsw.gov.au