Regional water availability report Weekly edition 10 May 2021

WaterInsights now presents most of the content from this report and is updated in real time. This report will be phased out over coming weeks. To assist this transition to WaterInsights this report includes links to the relevant sections on WaterInsights.

1 Contents

1. Overview ...... 3

2. System risks ...... 3

3. Climatic Conditions ...... 4

4. Southern valley based operational activities ...... 6

4.1 Murray Valley ...... 6

4.2 Lower Darling valley ...... 8

4.3 Murrumbidgee valley ...... 10

5. Central valley based operational activities ...... 13

5.1 Lachlan valley ...... 13

5.2 Macquarie valley ...... 15

6. Northern valley based operational activities ...... 17

6.1 Namoi valley ...... 17

6.2 Gwydir valley ...... 19

6.3 Border Rivers ...... 20

6.4 Barwon- system ...... 21

7. Coastal valley based operational activities ...... 23

7.1 Bega river ...... 23

7.2 Hunter valley ...... 24

7.3 Toonumbar Dam ...... 25

8. Rural Dam Levels ...... 26

9. More Information ...... 26

Water availability weekly report 2 1.Overview

WaterNSW manages and operates 42 dams and storages to deliver water for environmental, domestic, town water, stock, industrial and irrigation purposes across the state. WaterNSW storages provide supplies to all the major river systems in Western NSW, Greater Sydney, the Southern Highlands, Shoalhaven Bay as well as the Hunter, Bega, and Iron Pot valleys in coastal NSW.

The total active storage percentage of rural water supplies on 10 May 2021 was 58.03%. Which is an increase of 1.03% since last week.

The total storage level of urban water supplies on 10 May 2021 was 99.1 %. This was an increase of 3.5% since last week.

2.System risks

Algal alerts are current for many storages and river sections. Algae WaterNSW is working with BOM in assessing the likelihood of filling NSW storages, with high storage levels and wet catchment conditions, and preparing for airspace operations and flood operations. All floodplain landholders are recommended to review their flood operations plans and be aware of any notifications from BoM and SES. WaterNSW is working with DPIE-W and Snowy Hydro to reduce the risks of filling and spilling Blowering and Burrinjuck Dams this winter/spring. This includes limiting releases from Snowy into Blowering Dam, while ensuring water availability for next year. Any floods and floodplain flows that occur in the coming months, including the current flood flows in the Barwon-Darling system, may also trigger poor water quality, particularly low dissolved oxygen for fish, as floodwaters may pick up significant amounts of accumulated leaf litter. Forecast inflows to Menindee lakes from the current flows in the Upper Darling River and tributaries are expected to be approximately 800-1,000 GL. Recent rainfall over most catchments has resulted in increased allocation in most valleys and the additional inflow is likely to contribute to the commencing allocations in the next water year. Operational plans are being reviewed because of the inflows. Essential maintenance activities are planned across most valleys as irrigation demand is dropping over next few months.

Water availability weekly report 3 3.Climatic Conditions

A cold front is bringing a cold southwest to southerly change to southern and western . A high-pressure system will be centred near Tasmania later today in the wake of the front, with low pressure troughs subsequently developing over the inland of New South Wales and off the coast. By Wednesday the high should be over the southern Tasman Sea and the low-pressure troughs will continue to affect the state.

For the first part of the week, the coastal regions of the state are predicted to receive negligible rainfall, with higher falls of up to 25mm predicted for the far northern and southern regions. The central to western regions are predicted to remain dry. As the week progresses the state is predicted to remain dry apart for negligible rainfall along the coastal fringes.

Figure 2a – First 4-day forecast (11 – 14 May 21) Figure 2b – Following 4-day forecast (15–18 May 21)

Climate outlook overview

Issued: 6 May 2021

Rainfall for winter (June to August) is likely to be above average for NSW (chance of exceeding median is greater than 60%). Eastern parts of NSW have roughly equal chances of above or below average rainfall (chance of exceeding median is close to 50%).

The outlook pattern for June is similar to winter, but much of eastern Australia has only slightly increased chances of above average rainfall.

Water availability weekly report 4 ENSO Outlook: INACTIVE The ENSO Outlook is INACTIVE. This means the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is neutral with no indication that El Niño or La Niña will develop in the coming months. During this time, other influences, such as the Madden–Julian Oscillation or localised sea surface temperatures, are likely to play a bigger role in affecting Australian rainfall patterns. All seven climate models surveyed by the Bureau suggest a neutral ENSO state is the most likely scenario through the remainder of the southern hemisphere autumn and winter.

Bureau climatologists routinely monitor the tropical Pacific for any signs of developing ENSO events, regardless of the ENSO Outlook status.

Water availability weekly report 5 4.Southern valley based operational activities

4.1 Murray Valley

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

is currently at 42 percent of active capacity and releasing 5,167 ML/d. The release will vary to meet the regulated flow demands.

 Release downstream of Yarrawonga Weir is at approximately 4,400 ML/d and is likely to decrease over the next week.

 The offtake flow (about 1,200ML/d) will decrease in line with Yarrawonga decreasing flows.

 The Gulpa Creek offtake flow (220 ML/d) and will remain below the channel capacity of 240 ML/d.

 Stevens Weir level is at approximately 4.60 m and will vary to supply environmental water to system. Planning is underway to lower the Stevens for winter maintenance starting from 15 May 2021, when the diversion to Wakool Main Canal of Murray Irrigation Limited will cease.

 Currently, the water level upstream of Wakool District Main Canal Regulator is approximately 1.787 m.

 Flow downstream of Stevens Weir is approximately 600 ML/d. The flow will reduce over the week to about 600/day.

 Flows into Colligen Creek is about 164 ML/day (target 170 ML/d), is 38 ML/day (target is 30 ML/d) and Yallakool Creek flow is 143 ML/day (target is 170ML/d) will be varied to meet the operational requirements and to match the hydrograph required for the environmental water delivery in the Wakool River.

 Flow in the at Mallan School is currently at approximately 180ML/d and will remain steady over the week.

 Merran Creek flow upstream of its confluence with Wakool is approximately 50 ML/d with the flow forecast to increase gradually over the week.

 Flow in Wakool River at Stoney Crossing is currently at approximately 465 ML/d and

 Flow at is approximately 4,300ML/d. The native fish pulse water orders placed by DPIE-EES will be on top of the IVT delivery orders for May 2021 meaning the flows at Balranald will reach up to about 5,900 ML/day by second week of May.

 Lake Victoria is currently holding approximately 214GL or 32 percent of active capacity. The flow to South Australia is at approximately 3,442 ML/d.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 The e-Water delivery into Wakool, Yallakool and Colligen system is continuing, as per the hydrograph provided by the water holder.

Water availability weekly report 6 Water availability on: WaterInsights

 The Water Allocation Statement (WAS) by the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) (dated 3 May 2021) Confirmed that in the NSW Murray Valley Local Water Utility (LWU) and Domestic and Stock (D&S) allocation are at 100 percent. High Security (HS) allocation is at 97 percent. The total allocation for 2020-21 to the general security category increased to 50 percent, with an average GS carryover of approximately 21 percent, this means the NSW Murray total GS water availability has reached approximately 71 percent of entitlement. Starting allocations

 The next water allocation statement will be published on Monday, 17 May 2021.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The NSW Murray Regulated River water source remains at Drought Stage 1, meaning all allocated water can now be delivered under normal regulated river operations. Despite the small improvements, drought conditions persist.

Water quality on water-quality-algae

 Potential Blue Green Algae issues:

o Red Alerts are in place along the central and lower at the following locations: /Echuca, , Euston, Mt Dispersion, Red Cliffs, Buronga, Merbein, Curlwaa, Wentworth and Fort Courage.

o A Red Alert previously issued for the Neimur River at Barham/ Rd has been lifted has been lifted.

 For more information, please visit the Water Quality Algae section of the WaterNSW website.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Maintenance activities are nearing completion in the Stevens Weir gates and super structure under the Coatings Program. However, the maintenance activities are not expected to impact normal river operations or weir levels.

 Planning is underway for essential maintenance of Stevens Weir, Edward River Offtake, Gulpa Creek Offtake, Yallakool Creek Offtake, Wakool Offtake, Colligen Creek Offtake, New Merran Cutting Regulators between Mid-May, and end of July. The actual dates of maintenance will be finalised in consultation with key stakeholders.

Water availability weekly report 7 4.2 Lower Darling valley

Storage and release status: on: WaterInsights

 The Menindee Lakes system collectively holds approximately 718 GL of total volume of water (or 38 percent of active capacity), is releasing approximately 510 ML/d.

 Lake Wetherell and Lake Pamamaroo Inlet Regulator has been fully opened to increase the storage level into Menindee and Cawndilla.

 Menindee Inlet Regulator is open and the transfer of water has commenced.

 The status of individual lakes are as follows: Tandure – 89.7 percent, Lake Wetherell –77.7 percent, Lake Pamamaroo – 107 percent, Copi Hollow – 112 percent, Lake Menindee - 21 percent, Lake Cawndilla - 11 percent.

Note: Storage levels and volumes in Lake Menindee are indicative only and are estimated using best practice.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 The Water Sharing Plan minimum flows for May are 200ML/d at Weir-32. Environmental orders have increased the total flow to 500ML/d.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 Forecast inflows to the lakes from the current flows in the Upper Darling River and tributaries are expected to be approximately 800-1000GL. There is significant uncertainty in the forecast inflows due to flow breakout onto the flood plains in the Barwon-Darling System.

 WaterNSW is monitoring the situation closely, based on flows seen upstream, Lakes Pamamaroo and Wetherell will be surcharged with additional inflows stored in Lake Menindee.

 The WAS by DPIE (dated 3 May 2021) confirmed that all high priority entitlements have received a full allocation including all LWU, D&S and HS licences, in accordance with the Water Sharing Plan. GS allocation has increased by 70% to 100%. Availability of allocation on individual licences is subject to account limits as per the rules in the Water Sharing Plan.

 The next water allocation statement will be published on Monday 17 May 2021.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Lower Darling Regulated River water source is assessed to be in Drought Stage 1

Water quality: water-quality-algae

 Amber alerts have been reported for the Darling River at Menindee and Pooncarie.

 Amber alerts are current for Lake Wetherell site 2,3, and 4; Lake Tandure site 8; Lake Pamamaroo site 10; and Copi hollow

 Green alter is current for Lake Wetherell Site 1; and Darling River at Tapio.

 For more information visit the Water Quality Algae section of the WaterNSW website.

Water availability weekly report 8 Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Nil.

Water availability weekly report 9 4.3 Murrumbidgee valley

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Burrinjuck Dam is currently at 78.9 percent of active capacity releasing 3,600 ML/day and increasing as flows from Blowering Dam are cut back.

 Blowering Dam is currently at 80.3 percent of active capacity with flows decreasing to 560ML/day for a recreational Fly-fishing event taking place over the next two weekends.

 The Beavers Creek offtake flow is approximately 100 ML/d this flow will increase as the gates are fully opened today in line with the water sharing plans for May 2021, as the high flows from the fish pulse are going past this will increase the flows from Beaver's offtake during this week.

 Berembed Weir is approximately 4.86 m and will remain steady over the next week.

 Bundidgerry storage is currently at approximately 4.00 m and will vary over the week depending on the diversions by Murrumbidgee Irrigation.

 Gogeldrie Weir is at approximately 6.010 m and will vary marginally over the week. Over the next week

 The Tombullen storage is at 0.00 m.

 Hay Weir is at approximately 5.85 m will be used to meet any downstream demands including eWater. The minimum operating level for Hay Weir is 6.0m for the month of May 2021.

 The water level at Maude Weir is approximately 3.6 m, the weir pool will steadily drop to 3.0M while maintenance is being carried out on the Nimmie Regulator. The gates have also been pulled above water level during this week while the fish pulse comes through so the level can be managed.

 Redbank Weir is currently at 5.00 m to supply environmental water to Western Lakes in Lowbidgee via North Redbank Channel which commenced on Thursday 15th April.

 Flow at Balranald is approximately 4299ML/d to meet end of system target flows for the month of May. The native fish pulse water orders placed by DPIE-EES will be on top of the IVT delivery orders for May 2021 meaning the flows at Balranald will reach up to about 5,900 ML/day by second week of May.

 The current diversion into Creek is about 300 ML/day to meet system requirements. The flow into the Yanco arm below Tarabah Weir will stay steady at about 30ML/d while the split into the Colombo arm is approximately 250 ML/d with the flow remaining steady over the week.

 The end of system target at Darlot is currently 50 ML/day in addition to customer water orders below Darlot. Part of the IVT clearance to about 2 GL during May 2021.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

Water availability weekly report 10  Planned Environmental Water Flow Rules are fully complied with at both Balranald and Darlot.

 The eWater delivery to Western Lakes in Lowbidgee via North Redbank Channel has commenced. It is expected that about 25GL will be delivered during the event over a 9- week period.

 The eWater orders for the native fish pulse at Balranald are scheduled to be delivered as a piggyback event on top of the IVT delivery in the first three weeks of May 2021. A total volume of about 30 GL under The Living Murray account and up to 5 GL of Commonwealth eWater is planned to be delivered during the event.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 For the Inter Valley Transfer (IVT) account from Murray to Murrumbidgee, please refer to the Murrumbidgee IVT Account Status section of WaterNSW website.

 The WAS by DPIE (dated 15 April 2021) Confirmed that all licence categories receive full allocation for the current water year.

 Indicative allocation for 2021-22 on 1 July 2021 shows that full (100%) allocation can be expected for towns, domestic and stock access licences, and subcategory high security entitlements. It is forecast that high security allocation will receive 95% of entitlement in accordance with the water sharing plan and carryover commitments (estimated to be 30%) should be met on 1 July. General security allocations may start around 25% per cent based on current forecasts.

 The next water allocation statement will be published on Monday 17 May 2021.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Murrumbidgee Regulated River Water Source is at Drought Stage 1, meaning all allocated water can now be delivered under normal regulated river operations.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 While Burrinjuck Dam at has come off red alert, Burrinjuck Dam at Good Hope is back on Red alert for blue-green algae.

 Lake Wyangan North has a Red status for blue green algae.

 Lake Wyangan South in Griffith has a Red status for blue green algae.

 Burrinjuck Dam, Woolgarlo, Burrinjuck Waters State Park and at the Dam wall are on Amber alert for blue-green algae.

 The at Hay Weir Buoy and at Balranald are on Amber alert for blue- green algae.

 Blowering Dam at the dam wall, the Murrumbidgee River downstream of Burrinjuck Dam Wall, Gogeldrie Weir, and Redbank Weir are on Green alert for blue-green algae.

 Lake Albert in is on Green alert for blue-green algae.

Water availability weekly report 11  There are no other blue-green algal alerts.

 For more information, please visit the Water Quality Algae section of the WaterNSW website.

Unplanned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Nil

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Planning is underway at Burrinjuck Dam for the inspection of emergency coaster gates including hydraulic cylinder fittings; essential annual works on HEPS 5 branch, 90” FDC and penstock inspection and patch painting in three stages over a period of up to 9-weeks starting from end of April 2021. The planned maintenance will limit the maximum release capacity to about 9,000 ML/day through the low-level valves and approximately 5,000 via High Level Outlet No. 3 (Stony Sluice) depending on the storage level.

 Planning is underway to carryout essential maintenance in the bifurcate works at the Blowering Dam during the third week of July 2021. During the proposed work, release of water from the Blowering Dam will be temporarily stopped. Any system demands on Murrumbidgee will be met from Burrinjuck Dam. Flows in the River, downstream of Blowering Dam, will be disrupted during the planned maintenance for about 48 to 72 hours. The break in supply is likely to cause moderate impacts on downstream water users – especially in the absence of tributary flows from Basin Creek and Goobarragandra River.

 Work is underway for the essential maintenance on the channel below Nimmie Creek offtake structure. The works are expected to be complete by June 2021. This will impact any deliveries to Lowbidgee via these offtakes until end of June 2021.

 Maude Weir maintenance has been completed and filling of the weir will start, however, the maximum water level will still be limited to 3.0m until all maintenance works are complete at Nimmie Creek offtake structure.

 Planning is underway to carryout essential winter maintenance of Berembed and Gogeldrie Weirs between late May and early July 2021. This will impact the delivery of water to MI Main Canal, MI Sturt Canal and CICL Main Canal. Berembed Weir maintenance is scheduled between 30/6/21 and 9/7/21, while the Gogeldrie Weir maintence is scheduled between 14/6/21 and 5/7/21. The water levels in the weirs will be low for about two to three weeks prior and after the above maintenance windows.

Water availability weekly report 12 5.Central valley based operational activities

5.1 Lachlan valley

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Carcoar Dam is currently at 31.6 percent of capacity and is releasing approximately 2 ML/d.

is currently at 69.7 percent of capacity and is releasing approximately 240 ML/d to meet system demand.

 Lake Cargelligo is currently at approximately 69.5 percent of capacity and is expected to remain steady at around 69 % to the end of this week.

 Releases downstream of the Brewster Weir are around 530 ML/d. Releases are forecast to reduce to around 450 - 500 ML/d during the week as the delivery of Stock and Domestic replenishments in lower Lachlan continues.

 Lake Brewster storage on 5th May 2021 was 21.72 percent of capacity with a volume of approximately 31,571 ML.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 As a result of the rain, the tributary flows in Belubula are continuing. Currently, end of system flow condition is met by flow provided by tributaries.

 Delivery of EWA water started on Tuesday 20 April d/s of Brewster weir with an initial target of 130ML/d at . The delivery will continue to end of June 2021 and approximately over 8 GL will be used.

Water Availability on: WaterInsights

 The WAS published by DPIE on 10th May 2021confirmed that an additional allocation of 4 percent has been made to GS licence holders, bringing the total allocation this year to 68 percent.

 The allocation increase last month has elevates the total volume of water in GS accounts above 75%, which means that the Wyangala and Brewster Environmental Water Allowances (EWAs) are credited with a total of 20 gigalitres (GL) in line with the water sharing plan.

 Replenishment flows to the effluent creeks in the Lower Lachlan have commenced using tributary flows from autumn rainfall and water stored in Lake Brewster. Approximately 25 GL will be delivered to the effluent creeks by the end of the water year.

 Based on historical inflows, there is about a 10% chance that the major storages within the system will spill by the end of June 2021. Should a spill occur, general security accounts will be reset and equalised in accordance with the water sharing plan.

 In Belubula, access to uncontrolled flow event has been extended and will cease at 9am on Friday 14 May 2021.

Water availability weekly report 13  The WAS published by DPIE on 25 March 2021 for Belubula confirmed that there is no change to allocations in the Belubula regulated river water source.

 In Belubula, GS water access licence holders have zero percent allocation but will have access to account water that has been carried over from the previous Water Year (2019- 20).

 Water operations update for Belubula can be found at the Belubula operations section of the WaterNSW website.

Water Quality water-quality-algae

 The Wyangala Storage results (29th April 2021) showed moderately increasing productivity at all sites. The storage is now on Amber Alert Level.

 The Carcoar Storage latest samples (21st April 2021) show reduced productivity with some cyanobacteria detected in the upstream sample. Downstream showed no cyanobacteria detected. Storage is now at Green Alert Level.

 The Lake Brewster Sample results from the 26th April 2021 show lake Brewster inlet, and regulator C on Green alert, while the Outlet Channel is on No alert.

 Results from Lake Cargelligo on 20th April 2021 show increased productivity across the storage. Green and flood alga dominate the assemblage at all sites, however Aphanizomenonace (ae unknown), and Dolichospermum flos-aqua/planctonicum sp. are now present downstream in the Lachlan. Some other cyanobacteria were detected. System is now on amber alert.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Maintenance on Wyangala Dam penstock will begin next week and is expected to be completed in early July 2021. The penstock outage will reduce the maximum release capacity to 250 ML/day.

 Irrigation demand will be low throughout these months, so this dam release capacity combined with continued high tributary flows should be adequate to meet water orders. Water users are encouraged to check with WaterNSW for more details.

Water availability weekly report 14 5.2 Macquarie valley

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Burrendong Dam is at 57.4 percent of active capacity and currently releasing approximately 50 ML/d. Releases are expected to be steady at around 50 ML/d this week.

 Windamere Dam is currently at 33.7 percent of active capacity and currently releasing 13 ML/d. Releases are forecast to remain steady at about 13 ML/d at the end of this week.

 Rainfall and inflows this year have delayed the second phase of the transfer from Windamere to Burrendong February 2022. The transfer will leave a minimum of 70 GL in Windamere Dam, which provides a very secure supply for local demand for the next five to seven years.

Environmental Water operations on: WaterInsights

Environmental watering event at Marebone finished on 4th Feb 2021, and planning was underway for a small autumn event to start around 15th March. However, due to rain and Translucent flows in March the event was put on hold.

 The translucent flow period runs from 15 March to 30 November at Burrendong Dam.

 Translucent environmental water from Windamere Dam is deliverable all through the year when inflows to the Dam meet the relevant triggers, subject to storage volume being more than 110 GL. Translucent environment water condition was triggered on 23rd March 2021, translucent releases were made up to 1st April; however, the release has since ended as the inflow triggers were not met .

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 The WAS published by DPIE on 14th April 2021confirmed that an additional allocation of 29 percent has been made to GS licence holders, bringing the total allocation this year to 63 percent.

 LWU, S&D licences and HS allocations have 100 percent entitlement.

 All HS licence categories received 100 percent allocation on 1July 2020.

 Trade from the Cudgegong Valley down to the Macquarie water source can resume in accordance with the Water Sharing Plan.

 Burrendong Dam didn’t spill by the end of February 2021; therefore, the general security and EWA carryover volumes spill protection was not necessary. The general security and EWA carryover volumes spill protection ended on 28th February 2021.

 Burrendong Dam has so far gained approximately 5,100 ML in the month of May 2021.

 Carryover evaporation reduction in Macquarie and Cudgegong has been applied on carryover balances of General Security and High Security accounts at the end of the third quarter of the 2020-21 Water Year.

Water availability weekly report 15  A 2 percent carryover evaporation reduction was applied to GS and HS licence carryover balance in Macquarie and Cudgegong.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 Macquarie Regulated River Water Source is assessed to be at Drought Stage 1, normal operations.

 Due to recent rainfall and tributary inflows, all S&D replenishment for 20-21 have been completed.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Burrendong Dam: Results for the 27th April show reducing productivity near the Dam. Algae numbers have reduced. Storage is now at Amber alert.

 Windamere dam: Results for 27th April 2021 show increasing productivity across the storage. The assemblage has shifted to Microcystis sp. Downstream results showed very few cyanobacteria present. Windamere Dam is now on Red alert.

 The Cudgegong river d/s of Windamere dam is on Green alert. However, due to the Red Alert on Windamere dam, stock and domestic users should be vigilant and be on the lookout for algae scums and use alternate water if algae sums become evident.

 The cold-water pollution curtain at Burrendong is damaged and the curtain is not in operation. WaterNSW is assessing the damage.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Burrendong Penstock Maintenance outage 3rd May to 2nd July 2021- During this outage releases from Burrendong dam will be made through a bypass outlet with the max discharge capacity of 220ML/d.

 Any inability to deliver translucent releases triggered during the maintenance outage will be subsequently made good in consultation with environmental water holders.

 As a result of limited release, if water enters FMZ before 31 August 2021, the carryover allocations remaining in the water accounts in Macquarie will not spill until 31 August 2021.

 Water users intending to store carryover allocations in on-farm storages will be able to order water from any tributary flows during the outage and on completion of the outage in mid- July.

Water availability weekly report 16 6.Northern valley based operational activities

6.1 Namoi valley

Storage, release and inflow status on: WaterInsights Upper Namoi and Lower Namoi

 Split Rock Dam is at 29.20 percent of active capacity - up from 29.09 percent a week ago. It is currently releasing about 5 ML/d.

 Keepit Dam is at 66.3 percent of active capacity, up from 65.76 percent a week ago. It is currently releasing about 4 ML/d.

 Chaffey Dam is at 59. percent of active capacity, up from 58.13 percent a week ago. It is currently releasing 3 ML/d.

 The Pian Creek replenishment flow has been completed from flows below Keepit Dam.

 For regular updates, refer to the Operations Update section of WaterNSW website.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights Upper Namoi and Lower Namoi

 There are no current orders for the release of environmental water in the Namoi Valley.

 Planned environmental releases of 3 ML/d from Chaffey Dam continue as the dam has risen above the 20 percent trigger in the Chaffey pipeline authorisation.

Water availability on: WaterInsights Upper Namoi and Lower Namoi

 The Water Allocation Statement, published by DPIE (dated 11 May) confirmed that in the Peel Valley both Local water utility (LWU), Domestic and Stock (D&S) allocations total 100 percent and Peel General Security (GS) allocation has received an increase by 16% resulting in 77% allocation for the current water year. Environmental Contingency Allowance (ECA) account also increases by the same percentage.

 The latest Water Allocation Statement, published by DPIE (dated 7 May 2021) confirmed an increase in GS allocations in the Lower Namoi Valley by 6 per cent. GS allocation the Lower Namoi Valley is at 88.6 per cent for the current water year.

 All other categories of licence in the Upper and Lower Namoi Regulated River Water Source remain unchanged as well.

Water availability weekly report 17 Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights Upper Namoi and Lower Namoi

 The Peel Valley is in Drought Stage 1. Commissioning of the Chaffey to Dungowan pipeline is complete and operation of the pipeline commenced on 17 June 2020 and have now ceased as the dam is above 20 percent. Operational flow targets below Chaffey will be for water-on-order and release will increase when needed.

 The Upper Namoi Valley is at Drought Stage 1. Releases will be used to supply water orders in the Manilla River from Split Rock Dam to the junction with the Namoi River. For customers located on the Namoi River (below Manilla), water orders will be supplied (where possible) using the inflows from the Namoi Unregulated River. Customers wishing to take water from their HS, GS or S&D licences are reminded to place an order for their water.

 The Lower Namoi is at Drought Stage 1 under the Incident Response Guide.

 The Lower Namoi Operations updates.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Split Rock Dam is on a Green Alert Level in the storage.

 Keepit Dam is on an Amber Alert Level in the storage; and

 Chaffey Dam is on an Amber Alert Level in the storage.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights Upper Namoi and Lower Namoi

 Mollee Fishway is currently unavailable due to infrastructure failure.

Water availability weekly report 18 6.2 Gwydir valley

Storage, release and inflow status on: WaterInsights

 Copeton Dam is at 41.05 percent of active capacity up from 40. 84 percent last week. Copeton Dam is currently releasing about 31ML/d.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 Planned environmental “3 Tributary” water continues to be delivered as per water sharing plan rules.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 The latest Water Allocation Statement published by DPIE -Water (dated 7 May 2021) confirmed that general security allocation in the Gwydir received increase by 2.3% so GS allocation is at 57.1 percent of general security entitlement for the 2020-21 Water Year. Environmental Contingency Allowance (ECA) account increased by the same.

 Approximately 5 percent of the GS has been carried over the 2020-21 Water Year.

 LWU licence holders and D&S access licence holders have 100 percent entitlement and HS licence holders have 100 percent.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Recent Blue Green Algae (BGA) sampling at Copeton shows Copeton on a Red Alert Level in the storage.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Gwydir Valley is in Drought Stage 1. Management action will focus on ensuring water is available for critical needs for as long as possible.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 No supply interruptions are expected.

Water availability weekly report 19 6.3 Border Rivers

Storage, release and inflow status on: WaterInsights

 Pindari Dam is at 49.0 percent of capacity. Around 5,000 ML is planned to be released from Pindari Dam as translucent payback water which commenced on 7 May. Current release is around 700ML/day and will drop gradually over coming days.

 Glenlyon Dam is at 53.4 percent of capacity. Releases ceased.

 Boggabilla Weir winter drawdown has commenced last week.

 Recent rainfall has generated significant inflow and triggered supplementary access in Border Rivers. For supplementary access announcements, please refer to the Supplementary Announcements section of WaterNSW website.

 For regular updates, please refer to the Operations Update section of WaterNSW website.

Environmental Water operations on: WaterInsights

 Translucent payback release commenced on 7 May 2021 and expected to release around 5,000ML from Pindari Dam during May.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 The latest Water Allocation Statement, published by DPIE -Water (dated 11 May 2021) has provided additional 22% allocation for General Security A class licences which brings the total allocation for General Security A class to 100%. General Security B class licences also received 47% allocation.

 There are no temporary water restrictions and operations is now returned to normal condition.

 All licence categories, except GS, have received full allocations.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Border Rivers are in Drought Stage 1.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Recent Blue Green Algae (BGA) sampling at Pindari shows a red alert level.

Planned supply interruptions on: WaterInsights

 Pindari dam low level valve maintenance work has been completed.

Water availability weekly report 20 6.4 Barwon-Darling River system

River flow status on: WaterInsights

 Significant rainfall and flooding across the catchments of Northern NSW and Southern Queensland during late March 2021 has generated substantial inflows into the Barwon-Darling. This event will also provide significant inflows to the Menindee Lakes system.

 Most of the inflows are arrived from the Border, Gwydir and Namoi catchments and notable volumes are also arrived from the Culgoa, Bogan, Macquarie and the Moonie.

 Based on current forecast, around 1000-1200 GL is expected at Wilcannia from this event (since 29 Jan 2021). Around 800-1000GL is now forecast to reach Lake Wetherell.

 For regular updates, please refer to the Operations Update section of WaterNSW website.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 Environmental licence holders have also elected to ‘protect’ their share of access and this Active Environmental Water (AEW) is being actively managed down the river system.

 Planned Environmental Water (PEW) is water in the system that is below the Commence to Pump conditions for access licences. From 9am 12th January 2021 to 24 January, access was not available in all Management Zones because of the activation of the Resumption of Flow rule which was relaxed on 9am 24 January.

 Barwon Darling full Active Management has commenced. The flow class announcements indicate the amount of Active Environmental Water at each location.

Water Availability on: WaterInsights

 The WAS, published by DPIE -Water (dated 1 July 2020) confirmed 100 percent allocation for all licence classes in the Barwon Darling Unregulated River water source.

 According to the amended WAS, published 1 July 2020, flow class announcements will be made every day when the flow class availability is A class or above. Please refer to the Water Insights Portal for recent flow class announcements.

 From 9:00am, 12th January 2021, access was not available in all Management Zones because of the activation of the Resumption of Flow rule.  The Resumption of Flow rule is further relaxed from 9:00am, 29 January 2021 and currently normal access is available for all management zones. The relaxation of the Resumption of Flow rule is based on the current forecast exceeding the flow requirements under the Water Sharing Plan.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Barwon Darling unregulated river water source is assessed to be in Drought Stage 1.

Water availability weekly report 21 Water availability weekly report 22 7.Coastal valley based operational activities

7.1 Bega river

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Brogo Dam is at 105 percent of capacity and spilling.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 There are no current additional operations.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 Water Allocation Statement published by DPIE on 19 March 2021 confirms that the General Security AWD to is increased to 50 percent, and 100 percent for all other licence categories.

 Access to Supplementary and Uncontrolled flows has recommenced in all river sections until further notice.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Recent sampling (3 November 2020) continue to show very low productivity across the storage. No cyanobacteria were observed upstream. The assemblage is dominated by small counts of diatoms. Downstream showed a minor cyanobacterial detection. Storage remains on green alert.

Planned supply interruptions

 Nil.

Water availability weekly report 23 7.2 Hunter valley

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Glenbawn Dam is currently at 57 percent of capacity. Releases from the dam were ceased due to recent rain and increase in tributary inflows.

 Glennies Creek Dam is at 58 percent of capacity and releases were ceased due to rain and increase in tributary inflows.

 Lostock Dam is at 101 percent of capacity and spilling.

Environmental Water operations on: WaterInsights

 Currently, all environmental flow targets are being met by tributary flows.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 Supplementary and uncontrolled flow access in available in all sections.

 The total GS AWD is 100 percent for this water year. Carryover is equivalent to approximately 23 percent of the total share component. HS and all other categories received 100 percent allocation.

 An additional 100 per cent increase in allocation has been made to supplementary access licences in hunter. This will make the total allocation of 200 per cent to supplementary access licence this year.

 At the beginning of the year EWA account has been credited with 20 GL in accordance with the Water Sharing Plan. However, no usage from EWA so far this year.

 Paterson Valley allocations are at 100 percent for all licence categories.

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Hunter Regulated River water source is assessed to be at Drought Stage 1 normal operations.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Recent samples (8 Mar 2021) at Glenbawn shows that Microcystis sp. is still present at all upstream sites however overall productivity has declined. Downstream results showed no cyanobacteria present. Storage is now at Amber Alert Level.  Recent sampling results (8 March 2021) at Glennies Creek Dam show that productivity is increasing again across the storage. Assemblage is mixed with small counts of cyanobacteria and green alga present. Storage is now at Amber alert level.  Recent BGA results for Lostock dam shows the upstream assemblage is dominated by flood alga. No cyanobacteria were observed. Downstream results showed a minor Microcystis sp. detection. Storage is now at Amber Alert Level.

Planned supply interruptions:

 Nil

Water availability weekly report 24 7.3 Toonumbar Dam

Storage and release status on: WaterInsights

 Toonumbar Dam is at 101.1 percent of capacity and spilling.

Environmental water operations on: WaterInsights

 No current additional operations.

Water availability on: WaterInsights

 All licence categories have 100 percent availability.

 Full allocations already announced for all entitlement holders in the 2020-21 Water Year.

 WaterNSW held the ROSCCO meeting in CASINO on 1 April 2021 and provided an updated- on water operation.

 WaterNSW invited guest speakers from various organisations who provided information to the group on Compliance issues (NRAR), rural metering framework (DPIE) and regional water strategy (DPIE).

Drought operation measures on: WaterInsights

 The Drought Stage level has eased from Drought Stage 2 to normal operations.

Water quality water-quality-algae

 Sample results for Toonumbar Dam (15 Mar 21). The storage is remaining on Red alert.

Planned supply interruptions:

 Scheduled works for replacement of the 610” valve started on the 19th of April 2021as per the plan. The outage is expected to be for 3 weeks. During this time no water will be released from the valves.

 Outage communication plan was discussed with customers in recent ROSCCo meeting held at Casino on 1 April 2021.

 The ongoing work has experienced some minor delays and expected to finish by end of this week.

Water availability weekly report 25 8. Rural Dam Levels

Rural Dam levels are available on WaterInsights

9. More Information

More information Subscribe to our customer information (weekly water availability reports, e-newsletters, etc.) at waternsw.com.au/subscribe.

Water availability weekly report 26