Releases from Lake Wetherell to double

8 June 2011

NSW Office of Water in conjunction with State Water Corporation today announced that flows from the Lake Wetherell Outlet would be increased from 500 ML/d to 1,000 ML/d immediately.

This will see an increase in gauge height of approximately 7 centimetres at Weir 32.

This increase is being made to improve water quality, specifically to facilitate an increase in the levels of dissolved oxygen in the Menindee town weir pool.

This action has been taken following fish deaths in the weir pool over the weekend.

While the majority of dead fish are small Bony Bream, there have been some reports of stress among Perch and Murray Cod.

It is believed that with the lack of water movement recently in the weir pool and despite the cooler temperatures, high organic loads from recent flooding have depleted the water of oxygen.

Water quality staff from the NSW Office of Water and State Water Corporation are continuing to monitor and manage the situation.

Media contact: Bunty Driver 0407 403 234