State’s reservoir plan gets a push with funding to protect water quality
Fishing and kayaking to be allowed on a raft of reservoirs including some in the suburbs under a multimillion-dollar plan by the state government. SEE WHAT’S OPENING.
SA News
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Suburban reservoir Happy Valley in Adelaide’s south will be opened for kayakers and fishers with at least $10 million being used to ensure it does not affect water quality.
Seven reservoirs across the state, including suburban reservoirs Happy Valley and Hope Valley, will be opened or have expanded recreational access within two years.
The planned rollout will be unveiled by Environment Minister David Speirs today.
A funding commitment from SA Water will help to progress the plans that were taken to the election but had come under scrutiny since over water quality fears.
SA Water will spend $4.9 million to ensure protection of water quality including fencing, cameras and security measures.
An additional $10 million will be used for UV water treatment at Happy Valley – the second closest reservoir to the city, behind Hope Valley.
“We went to the election with a clear plan to open-up our reservoirs for the people of South Australia to enjoy and have been busy working to make this a reality ever since,” Mr Speirs said.
“It’s very exciting to be able to announce our next phase of delivering this commitment which includes suburban reservoirs at Happy Valley and Hope Valley.”
Mr Speirs said the opening up of Myponga Reservoir in April has been an outstanding success providing both a social and economic boost for the Fleurieu Peninsula through thousands of visitors to the reservoir.
“Initially land-based activities such as picnicking and bushwalking were available at Myponga, but recreational access will be expanded to include fishing and possibly kayaking soon,” he said.
In June The Advertiser revealed a confidential audit had found the reservoir plan raised “major challenges” to the safety of Adelaide’s drinking water, and has warned and massive new spending was needed for bug-killing treatment plants.
Mr Speirs said protecting the health and quality of drinking water supplies remained a priority.
“This will be done through improved water treatment plants as required, detailed water quality risk assessments, as well as increased site security and water quality control measures,” he said.
“To have South Australians be able to go out on a kayak or drop a line for fishing at reservoirs across our state is an opportunity which will have significant environmental, social and economic benefits for generations to come.
“The opportunities at Happy Valley particularly excite me, because combined with the creation of Glenthorne National Park, we will have an environmental and recreational hub right in the heart of the southern suburbs.”