Chaffey Dam Pipeline

The Chaffey Dam pipeline was completed in 2020 and operated temporarily in mid-2020, during severe drought conditions. The operation of the pipeline was approved by State and Commonwealth governments to deliver emergency water supply to communities during drought conditions. Temporary approval to operate the pipeline has expired and WaterNSW would require additional environmental approvals to operate it long term.

Update on EIS process

The process of gaining additional environmental approvals for the long-term operation of the Chaffey Dam pipeline, including the Environmental Impact Statement process and its public exhibition, has stopped. WaterNSW has withdrawn the project Scoping Report and controlled action referral from the Commonwealth government.

We will continue to assess operational requirements for Chaffey Dam and Chaffey Dam pipeline in line with other significant water infrastructure needs in the region and will seek the appropriate approvals to meet those requirements as needed.

WaterNSW is working with Water Infrastructure NSW on their commissioning of the Dungowan replacement pipeline regarding its interface with the Chaffey Dam pipeline. Separately, WaterNSW will assess maintenance needs for the Chaffey Dam pipeline. At no time during pipeline maintenance will there be a need to stop releases to the Peel River.

Community feedback is an important part of the environmental assessment process and we will keep the community and stakeholders involved as work progresses.

In Mid-2022, community virtual and in-person community information sessions were held to collect feedback and help inform the EIS.

Other WaterNSW projects in the vicinity of the Chaffey Pipeline

From mid-2023, WaterNSW will be carrying out some snag installation works along the Peel River between Chaffey Dam and Tamworth as part of the offsets program for the short-term approval for temporary operation of Chaffey pipeline during drought in 2020. Fore more information on the bio-diversity program visit Chaffey Dam Pipeline - Biodiversity offsets program

Other Agencies working in the area

Water Infrastructure NSW (WINSW) are currently carrying out construction works for the Replacement pipeline between Dungowan Village and Calala. WINSW has also recently commenced public exhibition of the proposed new Dungowan Dam EIS. Further information on these WINSW projects can be found on the WINSW website. WaterNSW will continue to liaise with WINSW regarding their projects as required.

For more information about the upgrades or to enquire about any of the project activities contact us or call 1300 662 077.