Feedback sought on Williams River erosion solution
The Lower Hunter community is invited to have their say on a revised Erosion Management Plan for the Williams River and Seaham Weir Pool, which will improve ongoing water quality and erosion issues, while allowing recreational boating activity to continue on the Williams River.
The revised Plan incorporates new hard infrastructure including rock revetment and log walls, alongside riverbank revegetation and livestock fencing.
Hunter Water Managing Director, Darren Cleary, said it provides a solution to ongoing water quality concerns.
“The Williams River is a critical part of our region’s water supply, and is the primary water source for Grahamstown Dam.
“The longstanding decline in water quality in the lower reaches of the Williams River continues to be a concern to us. While management of Grahamstown Dam and our treatment processes continue to provide robust barriers to ensure the safety of drinking water, it’s important that we address the erosion in the Seaham Weir Pool.
“This proposal will improve water quality and delivers positive environmental outcomes, while also sustaining social and economic aspects of the Williams River, such as boating activities, that are valued by the community.”
Lower Hunter community members are encouraged to have their say.
“The revised Plan reflects community feedback and acknowledges the value of the Williams River as a crucial part of the region’s water supply and for recreational boating.
“I encourage anyone interested to have a look at the updated Plan on our website and provide input so that implementation can commence,” said Mr Cleary.
The draft Erosion Management Plan is now on public exhibition until Tuesday 22 November, with community drop in sessions at Clarence Town and Seaham on 2 and 12 November, respectively. Hunter Water will be engaging directly with landowners along the Weir Pool.
Community feedback will be reviewed and taken into account by the Williams River Erosion Management Plan Interagency Working Group, which includes representatives from Dungog Shire and Port Stephens Councils, Transport for New South Wales, Hunter Local Land Services and Hunter Water, prior to the Plan being finalised and then implemented by Hunter Water.
The Plan was prepared by Hunter Water in collaboration with various local and state government agencies, as well as in consultation with NSW Soil Conservation Services. The approach has been reviewed by independent experts at the University of NSW’s Water Research Laboratory.
Implementation of the proposed solution will be funded jointly by Hunter Water and the NSW Government.