WaterNSW has stopped the bulk water transfer from Windamere Dam to Burrendong Dam one month ahead of schedule after two rain events produced good inflows into Burrendong.

Phase one of the bulk water transfer, which began on January 1, was due to deliver 35 Gigalitres from Windamere Dam to Burrendong Dam via the Cudgegong River. The transfer was scheduled for January-February.

Following the two rain events, which delivered 19 Gigalitres of inflows to the Burrendong catchment, the transfer was ceased after just 10 Gigalitres was taken from Windamere Dam.

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“The combination of the bulk-water transfer and Burrendong Dam inflows are expected to meet remaining summer irrigation demand and other autumn demands in the Macquarie River,” said Adrian Langdon, WaterNSW’s Executive Manager System Operation.

“If conditions remain dry, a second phase of the transfer will occur in spring 2019 and that release may include the volume not released this time. But should another transfer be needed, 70 Gigalitres would remain in Windamere Dam – or five to seven years’ supply of water.

“This example of how WaterNSW’s management of the state’s dams and rivers, working with our customers, has extended supply during these trying conditions.”

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The recent inflows to Burrendong fall short of the 60 Gigalitres required to secure high priority needs in the Macquarie for the 2019/20 water year before Temporary Water Restrictions of water in accounts can be eased. Government currently has a 30% quarantine on water accounts.

Releases from Windamere during February are likely to be about 100 ML/d to meet customer orders. Releases may increase when dam inflows trigger the translucent environmental water rules provided by the Water Sharing Plan.

“WaterNSW engaged with water users, including the Cudgegong Valley Water Security Committee, throughout the process,” Mr Langdon said.

“We held information sessions in Warren, Narromine, Dubbo and Mudgee to outline drought strategies and responses and keep Macquarie and Cudgegong Valley waters users informed.”

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During the transfers we kept the public informed with weekly river heights in newspaper and on WaterNSW website.

WaterNSW will continue to review the need for any further bulk water transfers and keep the communities informed. For WaterNSW drought management information visit: www.waternsw.com.au/supply/drought-information