Changes to North Pine Dam operations

Changes will be made to the way the North Pine Dam is operated to offer earlier warnings for homes and businesses ahead of major flood events.

The Queensland Floods Commission of Inquiry recommended a study be developed to investigate whether North Pine Dam can provide better flood mitigation for the Moreton Bay community downstream of the dam.

The North Pine Dam Optimisation Study looked at a wide range of scenarios and outlines a number of management options, taking into account water supply security, dam safety, downstream impacts and economic benefits.

Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle said there is no doubt the region will experience another major flood at some stage, but through better planning, as we promised at the election, the risks can be eased.

“While seeking public feedback on all of the options outlined in the study, the Government has nominated a preferred option,” Mr McArdle said.

“Option 3 would see North Pine Dam lowered to 90 per cent of its full supply level for up to 20 years.

“This would decrease the probability of overtopping the dam crest during a flood event and provide more warning time ahead of an impending flood event to residents living downstream.”

Member for Kallangur Trevor Ruthenberg said the move would have no impact on water supply security in the medium to long term as it was a relatively small reduction and was not intended to be permanent.

“A discussion paper has been developed to help people and we invite the community to provide its feedback on the study,” Mr Ruthenberg said.

“The Department of Energy and Water Supply will also hold public consultation meetings in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area.”

More information about the study, including advice on how to provide feedback and comment on the reports is available on the Department of Energy and Water Supply’s website at www.dews.qld.gov.au/water-supply-regulations/flood-mitigation-initiatives/north-pine-dams-optimisation-study or by phoning 13 QGOV (13 7468).

[ENDS] 5 April 2014

Media Contact: Phil Hind 0437 334 183