WaterNSW protecting platypus breeding during Windamere transfer

“Platypus select nest sites based on river height, so as the dam operator, WaterNSW has an important role to play in helping protect platypus by making this early water release ahead of the irrigation season,” WaterNSW Head of Water Planning and Delivery, Ashley Webb, said.

“By releasing some water in late early spring, just before nesting season, the elevated river level will encourage platypus to build their nests higher up the banks.

“Then if we need to do a bulk water transfer from Windamere to Burrendong to balance storage levels in our dams later in the year, the water will pass below the level of their nests, protecting the platypus and newborn puggles.”

iStock photo.

The remainder of the bulk water transfer, if required, will likely commence in mid-October and run through the summer with the intention of retaining 155 GL – or 42% capacity - in Windamere Dam, which equates to 10-12 years supply even under a dry, low inflow scenario.

“The water released from Windamere will be captured and released from Burrendong Dam to meet environmental and irrigation demand in the Macquarie Valley from November to February 2027,” Mr Webb said.

“This WaterNSW initiative will not only benefit the environment but will also give downstream landholders an indication of changed river conditions they can expect later in the year, if a bulk water transfer between the dams is required, so that landholders can steps to move pumps and manage livestock accordingly.”

Windamere currently sits at 83% of capacity while Burrendong is at 31%.