Trial begins for downstream alert system

11 January 2012

Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson today announced that State Water Corporation is trialling a new automated downstream notification system intended for use at all its major dams in regional NSW.

“I encourage local residents and other interested parties to register for notification in case of a dam emergency or in the event of increased dam releases from gated structures,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

“The new system will enhance State Water’s ability to alert local landholders and councils to rises in river levels due to increased delivery for irrigation purposes or flood mitigation.”

The process of upgrading the dam notification network was fast-tracked as a result of a review of State Water’s operations during the flooding events of December 2010 in the Macquarie and Murrumbidgee valleys.

While the system will be an essential component of State Water’s dam safety system, the improved customer service applications will result in an immediate benefit, Ms Hodgkinson said.

“The ability to improve the accuracy and speed with which State Water notifies downstream landholders and communities about increased dam releases and any resulting rise in river levels is sure to be well-received by those relevant stakeholders.

“It was clear to me that this facet of customer service was an area where an upgrade via technological investment would bring considerable benefit so it is great to see this trial up and running,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

The downstream notification system is at the registration stage only and the pilot is currently being tested downstream of Glennies Creek Dam, near Singleton prior to a state-wide roll out in February 2012. Registered participants will be notified when their local system is operational.

Those wishing to register can do so online at www.statewater.com.au/ewn or by calling 1300 703 017, and can nominate their dam of interest and the manner in which they wish to be notified - mobile phone, landline or email.

Media contacts:

Samantha Day – 0408 176 475 or Beth Stanford – 0417 802 943