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A meeting was held on 11 May 2010 with representatives of SunWater and much of the confusion that clouded the Nathan Dam issue has now been clarified. Discussions were open, frank and transparent and questions answered wherever possible. It was a very constructive and positive meeting. Although Wildlife Queensland would have desired a different outcome - like no dam at all - we at last know where we stand, have a much better appreciation of the situation and can plan future action with some degree of certainty. Furthermore, it is now clear how some of the apparent confusion that was clouding the issue arose.
Issues clarified
- Proposed increase in the capacity of the proposed Nathan dam from 880,000ML to 1,000,000 ML. The outcome of this depends on current geotechnical work. The earth filled dam option (which can not be constructed greater than 880,000ML) is SunWater’s preference but its feasibility will be confirmed in the coming weeks. If the earthfill dam is not feasible then Sunwater would be forced down the RCC (reinforced concrete construction) track. The RCC track could be built to any size and the difference in cost between 880,000 and 1,000,000 options is marginal so the larger option may be the preferred option. SunWater will advise when the position is clearer.
- The Nathan dam project is to be developed so all approvals for construction are in place then onsold to a consortium. It was confirmed that this is completely untrue.
- A possible explanation became clear for the apparent confusing advice provided by senior Government personnel that the project was ‘off the agenda’. Perhaps such advice was provided based on the knowledge that government funding was being withheld and not being aware SunWater was self funding or alternatively being aware of the SDIWP project and the likelihood of the dam construction being deferred for years.
- EIS is proceeding and attempts are being made to have in place all required approvals for construction. EIS is scheduled to be provided to the Coordinator General late in 2010 and to be available for public comment in early 2011. It is anticipated that a decision from the Commonwealth is not likely until late 2011. Construction of the dam is likely to be deferred.
- Construction of the proposed Nathan dam will be triggered by two requirements: firstly when the Associated Waters Pipeline project can no longer meet demand and secondly when the business case can establish there are committed clients for at least 75% of the available waters of dam. It should be noted that if client demand exceeds supply it is more than likely the second requirement would be satisfied.
- Relocation trials for the boggomoss snail are no longer required by DEWHA. However, at this time, all activities undertaken still must not conflict with the approved Recovery Plan for the boggomoss snail or clearly establish how objectives of the Recovery Plan are satisfied.
- SunWater is aware of the need for offsets for riverine communities impacted but has yet to devise how these will be satisfied.
- There is every likelihood that construction of the proposed Nathan Dam will be delayed for many years.
More articles on the Nathan Dam and Boggomoss Snail:
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