A Memorandum of Understanding between four key regional organisations to better manage the impacts of dams within the Upper Campaspe Catchment was signed today in a special function in Bendigo. 

It was disclosed that there are estimated to be over 8000 dams in the Lake Eppalock catchment area with a total volume in excess of 23,000 megalitres.

In the Campaspe Catchment over the long term 11% of run-off has been captured by dams. In the last 11 years this has increased to 29% or almost one third of available run-off.

"If the climate experienced during the last 11 years were to continue, average surface water availability would be reduced by 54% according to recent CSIRO studies ,' said Jenny Williams, Deputy Chair of North Central Catchment Management Authority.

"Under the best estimates of expected climate change by 2030, average surface water availability would reduce by 16%" Ms Williams said. 

The Memorandum of Understanding document commits the parties to stronger collaboration in seeking ways to reduce the impacts of dams on water yield and the health of the Campaspe River system. The primary means for achieving this will be through influencing State Government policy direction. There will be an opportunity for public debate on the management of dams when the Draft Northern Sustainable Water Strategy is released later this year. 

Jenny Williams, Deputy Chair, North Central Catchment Management Authority, said that the occasion is a great example of regional organisations working together to manage a significant natural resource management issue.

Signing the document at North Central Catchment Management Authority's headquarters in Bendigo are (left to right) David Jones, Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo, Jenny Williams, Deputy Chair, North Central CMA; Stephen Mills, Chair of Goulburn Murray water and Noel Harvey, Deputy Chair, of Coliban Water.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au