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Managing Murray weir pool levels 2016–17

Published: 29 July 2016

Landholders and river users along the River Murray are reminded to take into account changes to weir pool levels over the coming year, and to adjust their activities, pumps and moorings accordingly. Boat owners should also note they are responsible for the safety of their vessels.
Media release

The most significant changes are expected at locks 7 and 8. Some changes will also be seen at Lock 9 near Cullulleraine, Lock 15 at Euston and at Lock 26 at Torrumbarry. However, levels could vary at any weir along the river and at various times during the year.

The river has historically been managed in a way that maintains the weir pools at a relatively constant level. In recent times, however, weir pool levels have been varied to restore a more natural wetting and drying cycle. Over the coming year, weir pool levels will continue to vary and are generally more likely to be higher during winter and spring and lower during summer and autumn.

The ranges within which weir pool levels will vary are detailed in the table below.

Maximum expected range in pool levels

 

Upper level

Lower level
Lock 7 (FSL=22.1m) FSL +0.5m FSL -0.9m
Lock 8 (FSL=24.6m) FSL +0.8m FSL -1m
Lock 9 (FSL=27.4m) FSL +0.24m FSL -0.1m
Lock 15 (FSL=47.6m) FSL +0.6m FSL -0.2m September–April, 
FSL -0.4m May–August
Lock 26 (FSL=86.05m) FSL FSL  September–April, 
FSL -0.4m May–August

* FSL = Full Supply Level

The weir pool levels will continue to be managed for key needs including irrigation diversions, infrastructure maintenance, navigation and recreation. The MDBA will support, whenever possible, major recreational events such as the Robinvale Ski Classic and Southern 80 ski race.

If wet conditions continue, some weirs may need to be removed in the event of high river flows.

River users are advised to keep up to date with current weir pool levels using live river data at http://livedata.mdba.gov.au and can keep in touch with upcoming changes by subscribing to the River Murray weekly report.

The MDBA will issue further advice if there are any significant changes to the above.

River users wanting more information can contact the MDBA on (02) 6279 0100.

ENDS

For more information, contact the MDBA Media Office at media@mdba.gov.au or 02 6279 0141.

or Facebook @Murray-DarlingBasinAuthority