Releases from Menindee Lakes will be actively managed this summer in a refined approach from the Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA), and Basin states to maintain water in the upper lakes while meeting demands in the River Murray.
The November Basin Officials Committee meeting communique reflects the agreement by states that while meeting demand in the River Murray this water year, operators will target an active volume of 195 gigalitres in the upper lakes (Lakes Wetherell, Pamamaroo and Tandure).
MDBA Executive Director of River Management Andrew Reynolds said the refined approach would still see the call for water from Menindee Lakes. It will also seek to preserve water in the upper lakes for as long as possible.
“In the coming week, we expect the return to regulated conditions in the River Murray. We call on water from Menindee Lakes to meet demands,” Mr Reynolds said.
“Our approach this summer is to adjust flows in response to weather, system demands, objectives and forecasts.
“The call will vary to meet demands but to sustain water in the upper lakes.
“Operational rules covering water at Menindee remain the same. If, later in the season, the Lakes fall below 480 GL, the MDBA can no longer call on water. The New South Wales (NSW) Government will operate the lakes to reserve water for local supply.”
As part of the revised approach, some water will be released from Lake Cawndilla and down the Great Darling Anabranch, continuing from the environmental releases that have been made.
CEWH focuses on upper Menindee Lakes releases
The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH), Dr Simon Banks, said operational releases down the Great Darling Anabranch will help preserve water in the upper lakes but also continue to support golden perch to move downstream.
“This result is only possible due to the operation being supported with Commonwealth environmental water,” said Dr Banks.
“This is a ‘win-win’ for the environment and other water users.
“It is great to see these results from the collaborative management of water that supports our environment, industry and the community.”
The actions being taken by the MDBA take into account the advice from the Menindee Lower Darling water quality working group and the community. It will help to maximise water quality outcomes while meeting demands in the system.
The MDBA will continue to work with Basin states, the CEWH and the community to monitor and manage the Lakes as Australia approaches hotter and drying conditions.
Consistent with the NSW OCSE recommendations, the MDBA will be coordinating further work on reviewing the current operating arrangements of the Menindee system.
New South Wales will advise local communities and landholders in the coming days.
For information on scheduled events, water quality and operations at Menindee Lakes, visit the WaterInsights website.
MDBA calls for water on Menindee will be published in the River Murray Weekly Reports.
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