In the latest drought update, MDBA executive director of river operations Andrew Reynolds says fires haven’t impacted river operations or the structures the authority manages, however water quality is likely to be impacted when it rains.
‘‘What we are facing is a double-edged sword,’’ Mr Reynolds said.
‘‘When we receive the much-needed rain to replenish depleted storages, we expect ash and sediment from the fires to be washed into some of our streams, rivers and dams.
‘‘At this stage we know the fires will have an impact on water in the Upper Murray catchment above Hume Dam, but we will be able to make a full assessment when it’s safe for agencies to enter these areas.
‘‘This is the last thing our fire and drought ravaged communities need right now, but we will work closely with relevant agencies to manage the impacts and bring information to communities as they need it.’’
The ongoing dry, hot and windy conditions means water quality continued to deteriorate this past fortnight with nine new areas across New South Wales and Victoria now on red alert for blue-green algae. This brings the total number of red alerts to 20.
New South Wales sites with blue-green algae red alerts are: Menindee Lakes at Lake Wetherell; Mannus Lake; Lake Wyangala; Lake Windamere; Chifley Dam; Lake Wyangan at Griffith; Murrumbidgee River at Redbank Weir; Burrendong Dam; Macquarie River downstream of Burrendong Dam; Mehi River at Gundare; Namoi River downstream of Keepit Dam; Pindari Dam; Macintyre River at Boggabilla; Lake Copeton; Bogan River at Gongolgon; Barwon river downstream of Brewarrina weir; Darling River at Wilcannia
Victorian sites with blue-green algae red alerts are: Tullaroop Reservoir; Lake Eppalock; No 1 lagoon, Torrumbarry Irrigation Area.
18°C