Critical dry condition triggers to reduce risk to environmental and human water needs discussion paper
The Water Group within the NSW Department of Planning and Environment has developed draft triggers designed to reduce the risk of critical water shortages leading to severe damage to water-dependent environments and failure of surface water supply for towns and landholders. The triggers are a signal that management action should be undertaken to reduce the risks.
In the northern Murray-Darling Basin, which includes the Barwon-Darling River above the Menindee Lakes, these triggers will initiate temporary water restrictions under section 324 of the Water Management Act 2000.
We are seeking feedback on the draft dry condition triggers that have been developed. The Critical dry condition triggers to reduce risk to environmental and human water needs discussion paper provides background information on why the triggers were developed and why different types of triggers were chosen in different locations. We have also highlighted where interim triggers are proposed while we research alternative approaches.
Discussion paper
To learn more about the Critical dry condition triggers to reduce risk to environmental and human water needs download the discussion paper.
Discussion paper (.PDF 2,031KB)Summary
To see how the restrictions will work under the discussion paper proposals download the summary fact sheet.
Summary fact sheet (.PDF 166KB)Make a submission
We would like to know your thoughts on the draft strategy. If you would like to make an official online submission, please click on the 'Have your say' button below or;
Have your say by downloading the submission form and send to email regionalwater.strategies@dpie.nsw.gov.au.
Submissions will be accepted until midnight Wednesday, 13 July 2022.