MDBA chief executive Phillip Glyde said the findings show that river managers are ‘‘on the right track’’ in managing this integral part of the Murray-Darling Basin.
‘‘The way the Lower Lakes are managed had in the past been contested, with some communities questioning whether the lakes were fresh prior to construction of the barrages and whether removing the barrages would result in an increase in water available for consumptive use,’’ Mr Glyde said.
‘‘This comprehensive review of the science confirms it’s time to put history to bed and focus on the future.’’
The MDBA says the findings are consistent with the understanding of the system that underpinned the MDBA’s assessment of the environmental needs of the Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth (CLLMM) region that informed the Basin Plan.
The independent review — recommended by the Murray–Darling Basin Authority’s Advisory Committee on Social, Economic and Environmental Sciences (ACSEES) — examined hundreds of scientific studies on the Coorong, Lower Lakes and Murray Mouth and their report was peer-reviewed by close to 100 technical experts.
Mr Glyde said the MDBA supports the panel’s findings that the lakes were largely fresh prior to European settlement, and that maintaining the freshwater status of the Lower Lakes is needed to protect the social, economic and environmental values of the region.
The MDBA said findings were informed by palaeoecological records, water balance estimates, hydrological and hydrodynamic modelling, and traditional knowledge of the Ngarrindjeri people and anecdotal evidence of early explorers and colonists.
Mr Glyde said he understands some Basin communities will be disappointed that the review hasn’t unearthed any new or spare water.
‘‘While the report confirms our previous understanding of the history of the lakes, it actually highlights the big challenge for all governments — and that is sharing this vital resource in the face of climate change. We will use the results of the review to further support our current work in the area of climate change adaptation.
‘‘This evidence will help governments make informed decisions and plan for the future.’'
