New findings on the future of LakeMokoanare available to the public.
New findings on the future of LakeMokoanare available to the public.
Volume 5 of the Lake Mokoan Study completes the analysis of options looking at the future of LakeMokoan, north east of Benalla.
The study investigated measures that would see reliability of water supply to farmers maintained as part of any changes to the Lake.
“The government has stated all along that the reliability of existing irrigators’ entitlements will be maintained. This alternative suite of measures would fulfil this commitment. Volume 5 is being made available to the public to ensure transparency and consistency” said Kevin Ritchie, Chair of the Lake Mokoan Project Steering Committee.
Volume 5 was commissioned because of concerns expressed about the capital costs of implementing a spit option and the offsets required to maintain water supply reliability.
Goulburn-Murray Water is still concerned that the capital cost for the “spit bank’’ options are still understated. A sensitivity analysis will be prepared as an Appendix to Volume 5 and will also be posted on the website.
The future of LakeMokoan is under review due to its high evaporation losses, operational inefficiency and high operating and maintenance costs. Six options and associated public submissions were presented to the Minister for Water, John Thwaites, in November 2003.
“While a decision on the future of the lake has not been made, the social, economic and environmental benefits to the State will be at the forefront of the Government’s decision.’’ Mr Ritchie said.
A copy of the Volume 5 can be viewed on the website www.lakemokoan.com
Release ends
For more information telephone 5822 2288.