Barwon-Darling Customer Advisory Group - Minutes of Meeting
Location: Video Conference Date: 2 July 2020 Time: 9.30am
Present: Ian Cole (Chair), Jeff Sowiak, Bruce Coward, Tim Hosking, Michael Urquhart, Greg Hill, Jason Wilson, David Stockler, Jonathan Dickson, Toni Hayes, Andrew Scott, David Swift-Hoadley, Michael Smith, Steed Leonard, Emma Oates, Enrico Proietti and Sonia Townsend. The following staff attended for specific agenda items: D Berry, P Saha, A Langdon, T Fulford (2.1-2.4), A Fisher, B O’Neill (3.2), R Cocks (3.4). Meeting Opened: 9.30am. 1. Introduction: 1.1 Welcome and introductions 1.2 Apologies: Lindsay White, Bill Murray, David Miller, Jay Murray. 1.3 Confirmation of Agenda Items: Additional items tabled for discussion: Gauge at Brewarrina – refer discussion at agenda item 2.2 Progress of Nyngan and Cobar Drought Water Security Project (Nyngan/Cobar pipeline) – taken on notice. An update will be provided out of session. Action BD2007.01: WaterNSW to provide an update on the Nyngan to Cobar Drought Water Security Project to the Barwon-Darling CAG out of session. Responsibility: D Green 1.4 Declaration of Interest(s) Declarations of interest were sought from attendees in relation to the meeting’s agenda items. No interests were declared. Items included in the agenda are not considered confidential unless declared as such. 1.5 Minutes of Previous Meeting, 27 February 2020: Agenda item 2.1 – Water System Operations Report – discussion on use of “applauded” in the sentence “Members applauded the actions of DPIE and the Minister to place the embargo” (referring to Section 324 Order, February 2020). Members felt this was an accurate representation of sentiment expressed.
- Resolved the minutes of meeting held on 27 February 2020 be confirmed as a correct record. Taken as read. J Sowiak/T Hosking carried 1.6 Actions arising from minutes - See action sheet attached.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw 2. Water Delivery 2.1 Water System Operations Report (A Scott) A full allocation was announced for all licences in Barwon-Darling at the start of the water year. The Northern Basin First Flush Event followed an extensive period of hot and dry conditions with record low rainfall and record low inflows. It included significant inflows from across the Northern Basin including the Border, Moonie, Gwydir, Namoi, Culgoa, Bokhara, Macquarie, Bogan and Warrego systems. Involved a large number of Temporary Water Restrictions being placed on extractions in the Northern Basin. Issues were raised regarding communication and decision-making processes which resulted in the appointment of an Independent Panel to assess the management of the event https://www.industry.nsw.gov.au/water/allocations-availability/northern-basin-first-flushassessment The event resulted in around 585GL of inflow into the Menindee Lakes system. WaterNSW published regular Operations Updates throughout the event at https://www.waternsw.com.au/supply/regional-nsw/operations-updates 2.2 Water Quality (T Fulford) WaterNSW provided a water quality and algal update for the Central West Region as at 1 July 2020 (refer attached).
For more information go to www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae or call the NSW algae hotline 1800 999 457. Gauge at Brewarrina The Gauge at Brewarrina was again tabled for discussion. Per action BD1907.01, completed 31 October 2019: The EC/temp sensor is already sitting 300–400mm below the crest of the weir and the lowering of the sensor would not cover the problem of stratification of the stagnant water in the pool. The purpose of this sensor is to collect EC/temp for long term salt loading in normal flow conditions, as per the requirements of the client. It is not practical to drop the sensor without major works. If this is still required and the Council is prepared to cover the costs; we could possibly install a lower temporary line, but this would have implications for when the flow conditions return to normal as the sensor would need to be returned to its current location in order to be representative of the stream conditions. 2.3 Active Management Update (A Scott) WaterNSW presented an overview of Active Management, which is being implemented in unregulated systems in the Barwon-Darling, Gwydir and Macquarie Bogan valleys to ensure held environmental flows travel downstream. These water systems have unique environmental elements and wetlands and existing access rules do not adequately benefit the environment. The Commonwealth and NSW Government have bought water in these unregulated systems to further protect environmental water when releases are made from regulated systems.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw From 1 July 2020 the amended water sharing plans for these unregulated water sources come into effect and will include rules for active management, so that releases of held environmental water remain in the river to achieve intended environmental outcomes. New rules for active management, resumption of flow rules, Individual Daily Extraction Components (IDEC) and expression of interest presented and discussed. Active Management commenced in the Barwon-Darling system on 1 July and will be implemented in the Gwydir and Macquarie Bogan systems from 1 December, noting that conditions notification to licence holders is planned in the coming months to enliven the clauses. Detailed information about the environmental water reforms and what it means be found at the environmental water hub www.industry.nsw.gov.au/water/environmental-water-hub For the Barwon-Darling, from 1 July 2020: All Unregulated River and Unregulated A, B & C Class licence holders must check WaterInsights every time they wish to pump. Licence holders need to view the announcements on WaterInsights to determine if they can pump or not. Licence holders identified above must also comply with their Individual Daily Extraction Component (IDEC) which limits the volume of water that can be taken each day. The share of a daily flow equals 100% of IDEC unless otherwise announced. Announcements will include all the necessary details including whether or not the ‘resumption of flow’ rules have been applied. From 1 December 2020: Unregulated A, B & C Class licence holders must: Ensure that they have an Expression of Interest lodged with WaterNSW for more equitable sharing of water between licence holders. No longer rely on river gauge data to ascertain when they can or cannot pump. They must check the WaterInsights Portal every time they wish to pump
The IDEC can be found on the NSW Water Register at https://waterregister.waternsw.com.au/water- register-frame Action BD2007.02: WaterNSW to provide instructions, including screenshots, on where to find the IDEC. Responsibility: A Scott Barwon-Darling Water extended an invitation to WaterNSW to attend the Barwon-Darling Water AGM to present on active management to constituents. Date in August to be confirmed by Ian Cole with Water System Operations. Flow Class announcements will be made via the Water Insights portal (refer agenda item 2.4). 2.4 WaterInsights Update (A Scott) - The WaterInsights Portal is an initiative by WaterNSW where customers can view 66 water sources from the14 valleys, the Barwon-Darling and an initial group of groundwater and surface water sources in the Murrumbidgee region.
- The portal incorporates current data and curated information including water availability information, storage and release information, gauged flow and level data, operations updates and Annual Operations Plans, water availability reports and balances, notices of key operations information including outages and restrictions and links to other relevant reports.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw - Information from the Murray Darling Basin Authority and DPIE’s environmental holdings is also included.
- The portal can be accessed on WaterNSW’s website at www.waternsw.com.au/waterinsights/water- insights 3. Presentations/Consultation: 3.1 Regulatory Economics – Pricing Determination Engagement (J Dickson) Rural Determination: As discussed at previous meetings, members supported WaterNSW’s proposal of a 2-year determination, locking in WaterNSW revenues at 20/21 levels (noting inflation), deferral of Customer Juries and adjusting the 20-year rolling average and IPART cost shares. The only change to these proposed principles in the Final Draft submitted to IPART is the change from a 2-year determination to a 1-year determination. During preparations with IPART it became clear a 2-year deferral would not be supported. WAMC (Water Administration Ministerial Corporation) Determination: WaterNSW has heard broad consistency from customers on the key messages proposed around transparency (understanding what you are paying for across Agencies), cost reflectivity (paying a fair price reflective of the costs to deliver) and value for money (to provide
least cost solutions). There is no change to these proposed principles in the Final Draft, which was submitted to IPART on 30 June 2020. NRAR and DPIE will make a joint submission to IPART, however there will be a single determination made for all Agencies. WaterNSW’s submissions will be published as part of IPART’s review process at www.ipart.nsw.gov.au 3.2 Major Projects Update (A Fisher) As previously advised, in October 2019 the Prime Minister and NSW Premier announced the planning and delivery of three new or augmented dams in NSW (Wyangala Dam raising, and construction of new dams on the Mole River and Dungowan Creek). The projects have been identified as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI) projects in the Water Supply (Critical Needs) Act 2019. The projects are focussed around drought resilience to provide significant improvement in water security and reliability, flood mitigation improvements downstream of Wyangala Dam and potential benefits to the Barwon-Darling system. Delivery timelines, project delivery models, current status, program challenges, key delivery milestones and community and stakeholder engagement presented and discussed. The projects have been fast-tracked with early works to commence October 2020 and main wall construction expected October 2021. There will be more detailed consultation with CAGs and community groups as the projects progress. Members commented that construction of a new dam on the Mole River Dam is a lot of money for a storage of 100GL which will only benefit the Border Rivers. WaterNSW advised that there is still a lot of work to be done to understand the benefits and this will be looked at in the final business case (FBC). Funding has only been committed for the FBC, not
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw construction. Mole sits at the top of the system, also benefiting the Barwon-Darling and Lower Darling systems (refer also action BD2002.02 below). Western Weirs Update (A Fisher) - The NSW Government has committed to funding the development of a strategic business case to look at holistic management and operation of the weirs in the Barwon-Darling unregulated and Lower Darling regulated systems to support remote community water supplies and environmental and other benefits.
- The program has been identified as a CSSI Project (per previous agenda item) and is in the very early stages. Current status and key project delivery milestones presented and discussed.
- Members expressed confusion about the project and what it is intended to do. WaterNSW advised that it is currently only a study to quantify what the next steps might be - is there benefit to progress, which weirs might be candidates, is it worth more investigation for raising or decommissioning, looking at regulation to control flows etc. Is currently only funded for the Strategic Business Case, which needs to be done to determine whether worthwhile to progress further.
- WaterNSW has made contact with all Far Western Councils, however engagement has been limited in the COVID-19 environment.
- Members stated it would be reticent to take too many weirs out as weir pools have proven to be very good for fish refuge in the drought versus a dry river.
- Concerns expressed that Western Weirs and Wilcannia Weir are separate projects and may not gel together at the end of the day. There is a lot of consultation occurring around WRPs, active management and these other projects.
- Concerns around consultation fatigue, which could affect community engagement. The community needs detailed information on who is going to the community and when. WaterNSW advised that DPIE has been involved in conversations and we are aware that there has been multiple engagement. Wilcannia Weir Update (J Dickson/B O’Neill) Stakeholders were advised in June that the Wilcannia Weir project has a new timeline to have shovels in the ground as early as August 2021, with construction work starting in October 2021. This timeline has some changes because of COVID-19 restrictions and the need for further seasonal biodiversity studies under a more in-depth planning approval pathway (fact sheet attached). Members stated they believe the delay is not related to COVID-19 but to the EIS fish studies and the community is very disappointed that it has been pushed back 12 months, particularly when other projects have been fast-tracked. WaterNSW advised that the delay is a combination of both. The proposed fish studies were due to take place in April (seasonal change), however due to COVID-19 have been pushed back to the next seasonal change in September. The REF assessments had a risk associated with potentially impacting federal list species. WaterNSW saw this risk as unacceptable due to its additional timelines so have course- corrected and taken the EIS pathway (refer pg 2 of fact sheet). The new timeline is based on a risk analysis to mitigate the delays incurred by COVID-19 and avoid increased project delays in the future.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw For more information please email [email protected]. 3.3 CAG/ROSCCo Update (J Dickson) During the last CAG round, members questioned the background of the ROSCCos (River Operations Stakeholder Consultative Committee) and why WaterNSW was holding 2 meetings when members previously gained the information they valued in the one meeting. - Recent Government reports indicated that finding information on operational water issues is not easy for many community members. In response, WaterNSW has adapted the drought format of ROSCCos as a means of reaching a wider audience, including local irrigators, large employers and water related businesses. - WaterNSW surveyed ROSCCo attendees in recent meetings for feedback. There was broad acceptance that the ROSCCo is a useful forum to communicate river operations and education, incorporating broader community participation.
- WaterNSW has agreed that where possible, ROSCCo meetings will follow immediately after a CAG, however there will be times when they will not align due to operational requirements. When not aligned, a full and detailed water operations update will be provided at the CAG.
- Members questioned the need for both meetings and reasons for convening a ROSCCo at all. WaterNSW advised that establishment of ROSCCos was originally drought driven in terms of highlighting a broader understanding of water and river flow management. It now encompasses more than just drought issues and involves a wider customer and community base than the CAG (and may include DPIE and NRAR). It is intended they will be held on a regular and ongoing basis, which we will endeavour to dovetail with CAGs when location suits. - Where a CAG and ROSCCo is held on the same day/location, Operations will be presented as part of the ROSCCo. Where a CAG is held separately a full and detailed Operations update will be provided. WaterNSW is happy to be flexible/reactive with the ROSCCo format as needed. 3.4 Water Reform Implementation Plan (WRIP) Update (D Swift-Hoadley) Metering update: The Water Renewal Taskforce was disbanded on 30 June 2020 with WaterNSW overseeing the operational implementation of the reform. Irrigation Australia has a list of certified meter installers on its website www.irrigationaustralia.com.au/ and WaterNSW has developed a DQP portal for Duly Qualified Persons to enter validation certification. There is a list of compatible data logging and telemetry devices (LIDs) and solutions on DPIE’s website at https://www.industry.nsw.gov.au/water/metering/telemetry/list-of-compatible-data-logging-and- telemetry-devices-and-solutions. WaterNSW’s DAS (data acquisition service) is a cloud-based system to securely collect and store water usage data. WaterNSW advised that there has been a vendor delay with LIDs. There are currently 3 on the approved list and will be available in the next 2 weeks by the vendor. DQPs will be able to order through the DQP portal from mid-July. It is estimated there will be 1200 sites requiring this for 1 December. New reporting and recording obligations are being introduced and updated work approval and licence conditions are being mailed out (refer agenda item 3.6).
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw Customers should be aware that start dates for metering compliance still apply. Existing licence and approval conditions apply until the new dates come into effect. To be compliant, customers need to be aware of their compliance dates, understand their approval and obligation, engage a DQP to discuss options and lodge relevant certificates and understand their recording and reporting obligations. 3.5 Fixed Fee Rebate update (E Oates) The NSW Government has confirmed the fixed fee rebate will again be applied to WaterNSW invoices for approved users. WaterNSW continues to advocate for further rebates to assist those with no access to water. The rebate will be applied quarterly to bills for 2020/21, up to $1000 per quarter. Customers do not need to do anything in order to receive the rebate.
For more information go to www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/climate-and-emergencies/droughthub 3.6 WSP Conditions Notice (J Dickson) Conditions notifications are being prepared with DPIE to send notifications over the next few months (timeline presented). Conditions come into effect once customers are notified. The new WSP commenced 30 June and is in effect today and includes new amendments. 4. General Business: 4.1 CEWO Water Management Plans (J Wilson) The Commonwealth Environmental Water Office is finalising its annual environmental watering plans for the 2020/21 water year and will send the link to the website to CAG members in the near future. Meeting Review and Close
Next Meeting: Thursday 29 October 2020 Meeting closed: 12.00pm
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw Barwon-Darling Customer Advisory Group – Actions – 2 July 2020
Carried forward actions Action No. Action Responsibility Status BD2002.01 Add the following statement to the minutes of the 31 T Hayes Complete. October 2019 meeting, agenda item 3.1, “the Barwon- Darling CAG does not support the Customer Jury process”. BD2002.02 Provide the Barwon-Darling CAG with additional A Fisher Complete. information on the benefits of Mole Dam to the Barwon- The principle objective of the Mole River Dam project is to Darling system. provide long-term water supply security for the Border Rivers region. The dam would enable sustained on-farm productivity as a result of more reliable and secure water supply. The dam would also help secure existing jobs and create new opportunities from the increased reliability for agricultural production. The dam project improves security of town water supply and provides flood mitigation. The dam would also provide potential benefits for the downstream Barwon-Darling system through increased flow reliability and associated environmental health outcomes. By keeping the Border Rivers running more often in dry sequences, more supplementary water events may also make it to the Menindee Lakes more often, improving the ecosystem health and overall water security and reliability for the north and far west of the state. This benefit is maximised when undertaken in conjunction with the Western Weirs program, which in itself would further maximise the water savings in better managing (or regulating) all flow scenarios, from low flows to floods. These benefits will be more fully explored as the investigations and design for the project progress and will be documented in the final Environmental Impact Statement and Business Case to be developed by mid-2021.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw New actions Action No. Action Responsibility Status BD2007.01 WaterNSW to provide an update on the Nyngan to Cobar D Green Drought Water Security Project to the Barwon-Darling CAG out of session. BD2007.02 WaterNSW to provide instructions, including screenshots, A Scott on where to find the IDEC.
Contact us Call us on 1300 662 077 Visit us at waternsw.com.au waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW Provide feedback on “Your Voice” at oursay.org/waternsw Algae Alerts for the Central West Region
1st July 2020 This blue-green algal alert report is based on routine algae monitoring at sites in the Central West Reporting Area. These sites are monitored by WaterNSW and local councils. Summary
The Red alert at Windamere Dam is now on Amber Alert.
Chifley Dam remains on Amber Alert. Algae concentrations have reduced, another low result is required to lift the amber alert.
WaterterNSW in conjunction with councils in the Central West are continuing to monitor algae levels.
Results Table
Site Description Latest Sample Toxic BGA BGA Current Previous BGA Dominant Comments Date Biovolume Biovolume Status Status Toxic Taxa (mm3/L) (mm3/L) (based on Latest Sample)
Lake Windamere Potentially toxic, taste 22-Jun-2020 0.32 0.32 Green Amber Dam Wall & odour
Lake Windamere Microcystis - Potentially toxic, taste 22-Jun-2020 3.23 3.36 Amber Red Station 4 Unknown & odour
Cudgegong River 22-Jun-2020 0.02 0.02 No Alert Green D/S Windamere Dam
Oberon Station 18-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert
Chifley Dam Microcystis 02-Jun-2020 0.27 0.27 Amber * Amber (composite sample) aeruginosa
Chifley Dam Raw green Amber Riparian 02-Jun-2020 0.02 0.02
Macquarie River at No Alert Green Bathurst 02-Jun-2020 0.*00 0.00
Lake Burrendong 17-Jun-2020 Red Dam Wall Stn 1 0.01 0.01 No Alert
Lake Burrendong 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Mookerawa 17-Jun-2020 Lake Burrendong 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Cudgegong 17-Jun-2020
Macquarie River No Alert No Alert D/S Burrendong Dam 17-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00
Macquarie River U/S No Alert Wellington 26-May-2020 0.03 0.03 Amber
Macquarie River at Ponto Road 27-May-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert Green Geurie
Macquarie River at No Alert Dubbo 27-May-2020 0.00 0.00 Green
Macquarie River at No Alert Narromine 26-May-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert
Macquarie River at 26-May-2020 No Alert Warren Weir 0.00 0.00 No Alert
Bogan River at 0.00 0.02 No Alert Green Gongolgon 10-June-2020
Blue Green Algae Report for the Barwon Region 30th June 2020 This blue-green algal alert report is based on routine monitoring at sites in the Barwon Algae Reporting Area. These sites are monitored by WaterNSW and local councils.
Summary
Copeton Dam is now on Red Alert. Algae concentrations have reduced. No Alert is in place for the Gwydir River below the storage. Pindari Dam is on Amber Alert. Pindari downstream (Severn River) has a Green Alert in place. Split Rock Dam is on Green Alert. The Manila River downstream of Split Rock Dam is also on Green Alert. Malpas Dam is on Green Alert. Dumaresq Dam has No Alert. Malpas and Dumaresq Dams are being managed by Armidale Regional Council. Namoi River at Walgett is on Green Alert. Livestock owners are reminded to continue to check stock water supplies for blue-green algae and to remove stock from foreshores where surface scum is visible or blue-green algae are suspected. Site Description Latest Toxic BGA BGA Current Previous BGA Dominant Comments Sample Date Biovolume Biovolume Status Status Toxic Taxa (mm3/L) (mm3/L) (based on Latest Sample)
Chaffey Downstream 17-Jun-2020 0.00 0.02 No Alert Amber
Chaffey Dam Station 2 17-Jun-2020 0.00 0.01 No Alert Amber (Mid storage)
Chaffey Dam Station 1 17-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert Amber (Aerator)
Copeton Dam Station 22-June-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert Green 1 (Dam Wall)
Copeton Dam Kiosk 22-Jun-2020 0.04 0.05 Green Green
Copeton Dam 22-Jun-2020 0.05 0.05 Green Red Wonulla
Copeton Dam Microcystis - 22-Jun-2020 0.28 0.29 Amber Amber Northern Foreshore aeruginosa Potentially toxic, taste & odour Copeton Downstream 22-Jun-2020 0.01 0.01 No Alert No Alert . (Gwydir River)
Keepit Dam Station 1 11-May-2020 0.01 0.01 No Alert Green (Dam Wall)
Keepit Recreation 11-May-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert Amber Area
Keepit Downstream 11-May-2020 0.01 0.01 No Alert Red (Namoi River)
Pindari Dam Station 1 Microcystis - cf 22-Jun-2020 0.74 0.74 Amber Amber Potentially toxic, taste (Dam Wall) flos-aquae & odour
Pindari Dam Station 1.78 1.79 Microcystis - 01-Jun-2020 Amber Red Potentially toxic, taste 2/3 Unknown & odour site no longer suitable Pindari Dam Station ------for algae sampling Boat Ramp due to low dam levels Pindari Downstream 09-Jun-2020 0.18 0.18 Green Green (Severn River) Split Rock Downstream (Manilla 09-Jun-2020 0.00 0.10 Green Green River) Split Rock Dam Station 09-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00 Green Green 1 (Dam Wall)
Split Rock Recreation 09-Jun-2020 0.00 0.01 Green Amber Area Macintyre River at 15-May-2020 0.00 0.01 No Alert Red Lake Inverell
Macintyre River at Only sampled in times ------No Alert Amber Inverell (Middle Ck) of higher risk
Macintyre River at 01-Jun-2020 0.00 0.035 No Alert No Alert Boggabilla Weir
Narrabri Creek at 13-May-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Narrabri
Barwon River at 01-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert Amber Mungindi
Namoi River at 09-Jun-2020 0.00 0.17 Green --- Walgett Barwon River at Dangar Bridge 09-Jun-2020 0.00 0.00 No alert (Walgett)
Malpas Dam 23-Apr-2020 0.23 Green Red
Dumaresq Dam 23-Apr-2020 0.11 -- No Alert Green
Algae Alerts for the Far West Region
1st July 2020 The Far West Blue-Green Algal Reports are based on samples collected by various councils; Moree Plains, Walgett, Brewarrina, Bourke and Central Darling Shire Councils and WaterNSW.
Summary
There are no Red or Amber alerts in the Far West RACC region.
Green Alert for Namoi River at Walgett.
Due to the expanse of the Darling River, there are many areas for which we do not have BGA results. Therefore, water users should treat the Barwon - Darling River with caution, especially when conditions for algal growth are favourable such as low river flows combined with persistent hot and sunny weather conditions. Use the closest sites that have results as a guide to your location of interest.
These alert levels apply to non-human consumptive or recreational contact and stock alert warnings. Drinking water safety thresholds are much more stringent. Results Table
Site Description Latest Toxic BGA BGA Current Previous BGA Dominant Toxic Comments and Sample Date Biovolume Biovolume Status Status Taxa River Flows (ML/day) (mm3/L) (mm3/L) (based on Latest Sample)
Namoi River at 09/06/2020 0.00 0.17 Green No Alert Flow: 0 Walgett
Barwon River at 01/06/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Flow: 80 Mungindi
Barwon River at 01/06/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Flow: 28 Collarenebri
Barwon River at Flow: 4 Walgett 09/06/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Dangar Bridge Barwon River 10/06/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert Brewarrina Weir Flow: 47 Bogan River at 10/06/2020 0.00 0.02 Flow: 39 Gongolgon No Alert No Alert Darling River at Bourke/ 16/06/2020 0.00 0.01 No Alert Flow: 93 Boat Ramp Darling River at Bourke Weir 09/04/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert
Darling River at ‘Rose Isle’ ------No Alert No Alert
Darling River at Flow: 36 16/06/2020 0.01 0.01 Louth No Alert No Alert Darling River at Tilpa (Tilpa ------No Alert No Alert Flow: 214 Weir) Darling River at ‘Trevallyn’ ------Red
Darling River at Flow: 311 Wilcannia 03/06/2020 0.00 0.00 No Alert No Alert
Darling River at ------‘Caulpaulin’ Rivers Red and Ambers Alerts Station Code Sitename Date AMBER RED N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 22-Aug-19 A N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 25-Sep-19 A N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 31-Oct-19 R N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 27-Nov-19 A N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 18-Dec-19 R N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 8-Jan-20 A N1036 Barwon River at Brewarrina 3-Feb-20 A
N1037 Barwon River at Collarenebri 3-Dec-19 A N1037 Barwon River at Collarenebri 7-Jan-20 A N1037 Barwon River at Collarenebri 3-Feb-20 A
N1029 Barwon River at Mungindi 7-Jan-20 A N1029 Barwon River at Mungindi 3-Feb-20 A
N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 1-Jul-19 A N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 25-Jul-19 A
N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 18-Dec-19 R N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 8-Jan-20 R N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 3-Feb-20 R N1034 Bogan River at Gongolgon 9-Mar-20 A
N1308 Commissioners Waters 18-Nov-19 R N1308 Commissioners Waters 19-Nov-19 N1308 Commissioners Waters 9-Dec-19 R N1308 Commissioners Waters 13-Jan-20
N1039 Darling River at Louth 17-Dec-19 A N1039 Darling River at Louth 15-Jan-20 R N1039 Darling River at Louth 15-Mar-20
Darling River at North Bourke Bridge (Boat N1076 Ramp) 16-Jan-20 A
N1045 Darling River at Tilpa 6-Feb-20 R
N1309 Gara River at Blue Holes 9-Dec-19 N1309 Gara River at Blue Holes 13-Jan-20 A N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 15-Oct-19 N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 6-Nov-19 A N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 4-Dec-19 R N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 8-Jan-20 A N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 14-Jan-20 A N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 4-Feb-20 R N1031 Macintyre River at Boggabilla Weir 13-Feb-20
N1312 Macintyre River at Goondiwindi Boat Ramp 11-Feb-20 A
N1030 Macintyre River at Inverell (Middle Creek) 8-Jul-19 A
N1030 Macintyre River at Inverell (Middle Creek) 9-Dec-19 A N1030 Macintyre River at Inverell (Middle Creek) 13-Jan-20 A N1030 Macintyre River at Inverell (Middle Creek) 30-Jan-20 A
N1067 Macintyre River at Lake Inverell 8-Jul-19 A N1067 Macintyre River at Lake Inverell 22-Jul-19 A
N1067 Macintyre River at Lake Inverell 13-Jan-20 R N1067 Macintyre River at Lake Inverell 30-Jan-20
N1306 Macintyre River at Malgarai 23-Sep-19 R
N1033 Macquarie River at Dubbo 29-Jan-20 A
N1170 Macquarie River at Narromine 29-Jan-20 A
N1069 Macquarie River at Ponto Road Geurie 26-Feb-20 A
N1068 Macquarie River at U/S Wellington 29-Jan-20 A
N1068 Macquarie River at U/S Wellington 9-Mar-20 A
N1169 Macquarie River at Warren Weir 23-Oct-19 A N1169 Macquarie River at Warren Weir 26-Nov-19 R N1169 Macquarie River at Warren Weir 11-Dec-19 N1169 Macquarie River at Warren Weir 18-Dec-19 A
N1311 Mehi River at Gundare 7-Jan-20 A
N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 16-Oct-19 A N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 8-Nov-19 A N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 2-Dec-19 A N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 9-Dec-19 R N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 21-Jan-20 R N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 6-Feb-20 N1042 Darling River at Wilcannia 17-Feb-20 R
Alert Definitions for Recreational Waters Alert Definitions as specified in The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) Guidelines for Managing Risks in Recreational Water 2008. The use of these guidelines is endorsed by the Scientific Subcommittee of the NSW Algal Advisory Group.
RED ALERT These alert levels represent 'bloom' conditions. Water will appear green or discoloured and clumps or scums could be visible. It can also give off a strong musty or organic odour. Algae may be toxic to humans and animals. Contact with or use of water from red alert areas should be avoided due to the risk of eye and skin irritation. Drinking untreated or boiled water from these supplies can cause stomach upsets. Alternative water supplies should be sought or activated carbon treatment employed to remove toxins. People should not fish when an algal scum is present. Owners should keep dogs away from high alert areas and provide alternative watering points for stock.
AMBER ALERT Blue-green algae may be multiplying and the water may have a green tinge and musty or organic taste and odour. The water should be considered as unsuitable for potable use and alternative supplies or prior treatment of raw water for domestic purposes should be considered. The water may also be unsuitable for stock watering. Generally suitable for water sports, however people are advised to exercise caution in these areas, as blue-green algal concentrations can rise to red alert levels quickly under warm, calm weather conditions.
GREEN ALERT Blue-green algae occur naturally at low numbers. At these concentrations, algae would not normally be visible, however some species may affect taste and odour of water even at low numbers and does not pose any problems for recreational, stock or household use.
Table 2: Key to Alerts For Recreational Waters RED Alert ≥ 50 000 cells/mL toxic M. aeruginosa • High levels of Blue Green Algae detected OR • Indicates “bloom” conditions biovolume equivalent of ≥4 mm3/L for the combined total of all cyanobacteria where a • Toxicity should be presumed known toxin producer is dominant • Water will appear green or brownish and may OR have a strong musty taste and odour The total biovolume of all cyanobacteria exceeds 10 mm3/L • Surface scums could occur OR Extreme care should be exercised, and contact Cyanobacterial blooms are consistently with the water should be avoided present Action • Issue Media Release • Water supply authorities to increase filtering with activated carbon as appropriate Local authority and health authorities to warn the public that the water body is considered to be unsuitable for primary contact recreation AMBER Alert ≥5000 to <50 000 cells/mL M. aeruginosa • Indicates blue-green algae are multiplying OR biovolume equivalent of ≥ 0.4 to < 4 mm3/L • Water may have a green tinge and musty taste for the combined total of all cyanobacteria and odour OR Action ≥ 0.4 to < 10mm3/L combined total for all • Water supply authorities to consider filtering with blue-green algae where known toxin activated carbon producers are not dominant Investigations into the causes of the elevated levels and increased sampling to enable the risks to recreational users to be more accurately assessed. GREEN Alert > 500 to < 5000 cells/mL M. aeruginosa • Low levels of potentially toxic species detected – OR suggesting base crop of blue green algae may be on the increase biovolume equivalent of > 0.04 to < 0.4 mm3/L for the combined total of all Action cyanobacteria Continue/increase routine sampling to measure cyanobacterial levels
Livestock Drinking Water Guidelines Based on ARMCANZ (2000), Orr and Schneider (2006) and WQRA (2010)
This guideline should be used when water is used for livestock drinking water purposes.
• If visual scums are present, then a High alert should be declared. This would be applicable for both farm dams and publicly managed water bodies (streams, rivers, etc). Such advice should also be given to farmers who phone the department seeking information on managing blooms in their dams. • Where blooms dominated by Microcystis aeruginosa are present, then the ANZECC/ARMCANZ (2000) guideline of 11,500 cells/mL should be used. Excess of this cell count will constitute a High alert. • Where blooms dominated by Dolichospermum circinale are present, then the Orr and Schneider (2006) guideline of 25,000 cells/mL should be used. Excess of this cell count will constitute a High alert. • Blooms of blue-green algae other than M. aeruginosa and D. circinale are also common in NSW. These can be of either known potentially toxic species, or of species not considered to be toxin producers. When these blooms are present, a total blue-green algal biovolume in excess of 6 mm3/L will constitute a High alert. (These are based on Very High alert recommendations for raw water sourced for potable human supply published by WQRA (2010), in lieu of there being nothing else available). Further Information and Contacts Go to the WaterNSW Algal Website http://www.waternsw.com.au/water-quality/algae Call NSW algae hotline 1800 999 457
Contacts Tracy Fulford (Central West RACC Coordinator) [email protected] Telephone: 02 6763 3910 Project Update - June 2020 Wilcannia Weir Replacement
Wilcannia Weir update on timeline In our last project update in April we provided information on how COVID-19 was likely to extend our timeline, and that we would come back to the community once we had a clearer idea of the path ahead. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, WaterNSW remains very committed to delivering the Wilcannia Weir project as soon as possible. The Wilcannia Weir project has a new timeline to have shovels in the ground as early as August 2021 with main construction work starting in October 2021. This timeline had some changes because of COVID-19 restrictions and the need for further seasonal biodiversity studies under a more in depth planning approval pathway.
February community consultation and and the new weir site.
Updated planning pathway for the Weir Project WaterNSW in consultation with State and Federal Government agencies are pursuing a more in depth planning approval pathway based on information found in early environmental impact studies. Early environmental field work in February 2020 indicated more studies are needed on some fish species in the river. These species range from being vulnerable to being critically endangered and include the Murray Cod and Silver Perch which are Federally listed, and other fish such as the Olive Perch as well as the Darling River Snail. Other biodiversity, including both flora and fauna, need to be assessed in depth. More seasonal biodiversity studies were planned for April 2020 but were delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions, which extends the overall project timeline. WaterNSW wants to ensure the project has an in-depth environmental assessment process and the best way to do this is through an Environment Impact Statement (EIS). To complete the environmental assessments needed, and to obtain the planning approval may extend the project by up to 12 months but WaterNSW will work hard to deliver the project as soon as possible. WaterNSW is working closely with State and Federal agencies to progress the approval and reduce any future delays to the project. WaterNSW understands the new weir is critical to the Wilcannia community and have worked to find the best solution to ensure shovels are in the ground as early as August 2021. RE vs EIS
WaterNSW was going to complete a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) which is one option for securing the necessary planning approvals. Due to early findings around endangered and threatened fish, WaterNSW is preparing an EIS statement instead, which involves more flora and fauna studies. The graphic below shows each process and the activities needed to gain approval. If we had continued with the REF process, it is likely that we would have been requested to complete additional detailed environmental studies anyway, which would have pushed the construction start date out even further. WaterNSW has decided, in consultation with the relevant agencies to deliver an EIS so we have more certainty and can start construction as soon as possible. This will ensure the project meets both NSW and Commonwealth legislation needs.
Planning Pathway JAN - MAR APRIL - JUNE JULY - SEPT OCT - DEC JAN - MAR APRIL - JUNE JULY - SEPT OCT - DEC JAN - MARCH APRIL - JUNE JULY - SEPT Process 2020 2020 2020 2020 2021 2021 2021 2021 2022 2022 2022
Environmental REVIEW O and Engineering COVID-19 Ecology Field Study Capital Business Early Construction Works Studies Findings Case Works Starts Completed ENVIRON EN A Studies AC ORS (RE ) (not doing due to impacts found) F
Additional ecology studies Public Exhibition and Capital Business Early Construction Works Feedback Case Works Starts Completed
ENVIRON EN A I PAC S A E EN (EIS) (doing) Environmental Ecology Field Public and Engineering COVID-19 Study Exhibition and Capital Business Early Construction Works Studies Studies Findings Feedback Case Works Starts Completed
F
EIS Assessment
egend
Environmental and Ecology Field Studies Study Findings Construction Starts Engineering Studies
Early Works Public Exhibition Capital Business Case Works Completed and Feedback Questions and Answers
1. When is WaterNSW going to start to build the weir? This timeline was extended following COVID-19 restrictions and the need for seasonal biodiversity studies under a new planning approval process. The new timeline is: project has an in-depth environmental assessment process • Completed Concept Design – September 2020 and the best way to do this is through an Environment Impact Statement (EIS). To complete the environmental assessments • Environmental Planning Approval – May 2021 needed, and to obtain the planning approval may extend the • Detailed design – May 2021 project by up to 12 months but WaterNSW will work hard to • Site mobilisation – August 2021 deliver the project as soon as possible. • Construction starts – September/October 2021 4. What is a planning approval pathway and what is an 2. What activities can start again after COVID restrictions Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)? are lifted? The planning legislation requires us to assess the potential There are many opportunities ahead for the community to and likely impacts the project may have on the environment, be involved and provide feedback on the project. Until then, including cultural heritage and biodiversity among many other a Project Reference Group has been formed as a way for the factors. Biodiversity impacts must also consider both NSW WaterNSW team and the community to exchange information and Federal legislation. and feedback while under COVID-19 restrictions. When the project is likely to have significant impacts to WaterNSW will continue to communicate with the community certain features of the environment, an Environmental on when it is safe to resume site visits and consultation for Impact Statement needs to be prepared. This is particularly the following activities: relevant for biodiversity as it has to consider other potential • Field studies for engineering assessments significant impacts. • Field studies for environmental assessments An EIS is an extensive document with more in-depth studies • Field studies for cultural heritage assessments and assessments on various features of the environment. An • Community information sessions and school education EIS is assessed by the NSW Government’s Department of activities Planning, Industry and Environment and involves many other • Employment and training registration and implementation agency stakeholders, including Federal agencies if Federally listed biodiversity is potentially significantly impacted. • Art workshop session • Video production work and training The approval under this pathway is granted by the NSW Government likely in a bilateral agreement with the • Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Commonwealth (not WaterNSW). • Social Impact Assessment 5.What are the fish species in the river that are being 3. Why has the weir project been extended? studied? WaterNSW is committed to delivering and constructing a new The Murray Cod and Silver Perch which are Federally listed weir for the community but some delays have arisen. will be studied, along with other fish such as the Olive Perch Alongside delays caused from COVID-19 restriction to studies as well as Darling River Snail. These species range from being onsite, an updated planning approval pathway has been vulnerable to being critically endangered. confirmed with the relevant agency stakeholders. This more 6.How will WaterNSW assess the cultural heritage sites in depth pathway is to review the potential of impacts to on the river? cultural heritage and biodiversity, including Federally listed Under the planning approval pathway and as part of species. preparing the Environmental Impact Statement, an Aboriginal Early environmental field work in February 2020 indicated Cultural Heritage Assessment Report will be prepared more studies are needed on some fish species in the river. in accordance with government policies and procedures. These species range from being vulnerable to being critically This will involve direct consultation with the community endangered and include the Murray Cod and Silver Perch at the beginning of the study and will continue during its which are Federally listed, and other fish such as the Olive progression. Perch as well as the Darling River Snail. Other biodiversity The non-Aboriginal heritage will also be assessed as part of a also needs to be assessed in depth. separate study. Further seasonal biodiversity studies were planned for April 7.Will the Wilcannia community be able to provide 2020 but were delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions. The feedback on the EIS and the findings of the studies? next opportunity for these important studies is in early Yes, there will be multiple and different opportunities to spring which extends the overall project timeline. provide feedback. The project team will engage with the Because of these findings WaterNSW wants to ensure the community when preparing certain studies, such as those Questions and Answers on cultural heritage and social impacts. These all will inform how the EIS is prepared and submitted to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment. The EIS will also go on public exhibition and the community will Wilcannia Weir Project Reference have further opportunity to provide feedback. WaterNSW will review this feedback along with other feedback received Group from other government agencies. The project team are not able to see you face to face yet 8. Explain what might be defined as an ‘impact’ in the but will keep communicating via phone, email, video meetings, project? advertisements, local radio and news. For this project an impact can be generally described as We have now formed a project reference group to help us a construction or operational activity that may have an communicate and provide feedback, especially while we can’t influence on the environment. It includes how the weir project visit the Wilcannia community. We have invited members from activities may impact on water quality, ecology (including fish the following organisations to represent the community on a species), Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal heritage, land, soil, air project reference group for the weir project. They will meet quality, noise, traffic, visual and social. Impacts can be both online on a monthly basis and provide feedback on project positive and negative. related matters. The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) needs to look • Barkandji Native Title Group Aboriginal Corporation at these impacts and what can be done to minimise them if • Wilcannia Local Aboriginal Land Council they are negative. It will also look at how positive impacts can • Wilcannia Community Working Party be enhanced. The EIS is supported by specific studies, such • Regional Enterprise Development Institute as on ecology, water quality and heritage. Some of these studies, especially those relating to Aboriginal heritage, will • Wilcannia River Radio be discussed with the community, to help us identify and • Central Darling Shire Council better understand these impacts and how they may be • Wilcannia Safehouse Community consultation during • Wilcannia News 2020-2021 • Wilcannia community members The project team are looking forward to visiting Wilcannia • Wilcannia Tourism Association as soon as it is safe for the community after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Until then, a Project Reference Group Key Community Consultation Points has been formed as a way for the WaterNSW team and the community to exchange information and feedback while under COVID-19 restrictions. The art project for community artists to work with the schools to create lasting images on the surface of the weir will restart, along with the video project to provide mentoring and training opportunities in video production and editing. More information on the planned training and employment program will be provided in our next project update. The EIS document will also involve extensive community consultation and is to go on public exhibition during 2021 for community and key stakeholders to make comments and provide feedback.
Keep in touch Call us on 1300 662 077 @ Email Us at [email protected] Visit us at waternsw.com.au Follow us on Twitter @WaterNSW This project is delivered under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan by the NSW Government, and jointly funded through the Australian Government and the NSW Government.