Aerial spraying works underway at Windamere Dam

Spraying will take place for around two weeks from March 22 and cover several hundred hectares of land as part of a broader program to ensure the biosecurity of the dam.

“Non-native blackberries are actually a weed that overtake pasture and waterways and can be shelter for feral pigs, rabbits and foxes, so we’re using helicopters to target them in steep country and boundary areas,” WaterNSW general manager regional operations north, Michelle Yeaman said.

“Next we will be coordinating interventions aimed at other biosecurity threats including serrated tussock and feral animals.”

Works are part of a strong biosecurity push by WaterNSW in partnership with local farmers and other stakeholders, and will be directed at priority sites identified using satellite imagery, aerial photos, and consulting directly with stakeholders.

“We take the biosecurity of our dams very seriously, and it’s great to be able to work together to ensure the best outcomes for everyone involved,” she said.

WaterNSW owns about 14,000 hectares of land around Lake Windamere, 30 kilometres south-east of Mudgee. About half the land is managed by WaterNSW with the other half leased to local farmers.

“We are also working collaboratively with local council, with Central Tablelands LLS leading a push on feral pigs, dogs and rabbits in the coming months.

“It’s a great example of how much we can achieve by working together in partnership with other agencies and the communities we serve.”

Windamere Dam operates in conjunction with Burrendong Dam to supply water for irrigation, stock and
household needs in the Cudgegong and Macquarie valleys, as well as flood mitigation and environmental flows.

Media contact – Ryan Kennedy 0473 645 021