 |
 |
 |
 |
: News Article | |
 |
 |
19/03/2003
Ross
River Dam Upgrade to Commence
A panel of internationally recognised experts in dam construction and
safety has recommended commencement of initial engineering works to
upgrade Ross River Dam. The expert panel recommends the
height of the Ross River Dam spillway be temporarily reduced and that
gates be installed to help control the downstream flow and water storage
levels. "All Queensland dams are
being reviewed in the light of new international safety standards and Ross River Dam warrants special consideration due
to its close proximity to a large population," said NQ Water CEO, Ken
Diehm. "The safety and wellbeing
of the people of Townsville and Thuringowa is our highest priority and
it is prudent for us to commence these works without delay, especially
given the Ross River Dam’s water level, which will allow us to begin
the work without having to lower the current storage level. "There will still be about
12 months supply of water in the dam while these works are being conducted,
with back-up supply available from the Burdekin Dam if necessary"
he said. NQ Water is working with the
State Government, which designed and oversaw construction of the dam,
and is expecting significant financial support for the overall dam upgrade. The recommendation for initial engineering works is the first of a
detailed study commissioned by the dam's owner, NQ Water, in 2001. (See
Backgrounder
- Expert Panel) The study is evaluating the upgrades necessary for the 30-year old
dam to meet current international safety standards. An interim report of future upgrade
measures is now being considered by NQ Water. A final report is expected
to be available in mid-2003. The study has focused on three
areas, namely the dam's spillway capacity, the embankments and the
rip rap, which is the rock laid on embankments to prevent erosion caused
by wave action. The initial spillway works, which will cost around $1 million, are likely
to be completed mid-year. It is expected that selective tenders will
be sought within one month. Design work on the gates will commence as
soon as possible.
Ross
River Dam Upgrade
For enquiries about the Ross
River Dam Upgrade Project, please Phone 1 300 888 542
(toll free)
Enquiries
Write Ross River Dam Upgrade Project
Reply Paid 2020
TOWNSVILLE QLD 4810
E-mail nqwater@phillipsgroup.com.au