Chaffey Dam Pipeline - Biodiversity offsets program
Chaffey Dam to Dungowan pipeline drought response project
About
WaterNSW is delivering a package of biodiversity offsets, following the completion of the Chaffey Dam to Dungowan pipeline project in 2020. The package of work is being delivered through the Commonwealth approved Biodiversity Offset Plan to mitigate impacts from the temporary operation of the pipeline and has included the installation of 50 snags at key locations along the Peel River.
Snag installation work was completed in 2024. Hardwood trees of varying lengths were installed along a 50-kilometre section of river between Chaffey Dam and Tamworth. Each location was selected to provide maximum benefit to river species, protect riverbanks, reduce erosion and avoid impact to Aboriginal heritage. The snags were sourced from trees removed from the New England Solar project at Uralla. Murray Cod, Silver Perch, Platypus, Rakali and other aquatic biodiversity will all benefit from the offsets program.
View our factsheet to learn more about snags: What Are Snags? (PDF, 300.22 KB)
The next stage of the biodiversity offsets project includes the installation of self-cleaning pump screens. Once installed, these fine-mesh screens will protect native fish eggs and other aquatic species from the pumps. The screens also improve the operation and maintenance of pumps and irrigation systems, reducing system cleaning, flushing and downtime.
Background
In June 2019, the NSW Government announced emergency short-term works to extend critical water supply to Tamworth, Moonbi, and Kootingal towns due to water shortages caused by drought. Works included the construction of a temporary weir on the Peel River and the construction of a 19-kilometre underground pipeline from Chaffey Dam to Dungowan, to reduce evaporation and ground infiltration of water when moving via the Peel River to Tamworth. Work was completed in 2020.
The pipeline operated temporarily in mid-2020, until drought conditions reduced. The operation of the pipeline was permitted by both State and Commonwealth approvals to respond to drought conditions. Approvals to temporarily operate the pipeline have expired, however a Biodiversity Offset Plan was developed as part of this work and implementation of the offsets is underway.
Close
Related links
WaterNSW acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands and waters on which we work and pay our respects to all elders past, present and emerging. Learn more