Hurry Save The Murray!

When is calling the dam/regulator at Clayton Bay “temporary” no longer credible?

Under the existing decision of May 2009 (EPBC 2009/4833) of Environment Minister, Mr. Peter Garrett, the dam/regulator is “temporary” and must be removed by May 2011. If its life is to be extended, a new Referral must be lodged.

Last month the SA Government asked for an extension but the Referral brought under the Environment Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act (EPBC 2009/5227), had no use‐by date for the “temporary” structure, only “triggers for decommissioning”.

It is difficult to imagine the “triggers” being achieved unless we have a flood greater than that of 1956.

How temporary is that?

Last week, the track across the top of the “regulator” was sealed and became an all weather road surface.

This week, thousands of seedlings were planted on the “regulator”.

Question 16 of the FAQ’s of the Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation DWLBC asks Dec 15, 2009: “Will there be any works to improve the amenity of the structures, if they are going to be in place for the coming years?”
A. “Yes. Indigenous species will be planted on the gently sloping sides of the Goolwa Channel regulator. This will help stabilise the sides of the regulator and add important organic material to the bed of Lake Alexandrina, Currency Creek and the Finniss River. It will also create a more aesthetically pleasing structure. About 3,000 plants will be used, with plants selected on the basis of soil conditions, the possibility of high winds and locality. The plants will be sourced from local nurseries and State Flora.”

How temporary is that?