Stockwater flows under pressure

Reduced river flows and hot weather are putting pressure on Council’s stockwater network, with subsequent declining flows in the race network.

Property owners on the stockwater network are advised to have in place an alternative water supply for their animals, as Council can't guarantee water delivery across the entire network.

Infrastructure and Open Spaces Group Manager Neil McCann said predictions of a hot and dry summer because of the El Nino weather pattern had been accurate.

“Our stockwater rangers are currently seeing river and spring flows dropping off significantly, and people should have water storage tanks or an alternative supply ready to use if needed.

“Now is also a good time to remind people to ensure their races are clean so that the stockwater we do have can flow freely down the races to all users. While we will do our best to get water across the network, this may be challenging, and in fact not possible in the coming weeks.”

Mr McCann said unless there was significant rain in the high country, stockwater flows would stay at a reduced level.

“We thank everyone who uses the network for playing their part in keeping it functioning, especially in challenging times.”

Council has set up a special text alert system so people can receive stockwater updates and advisories in the event of sudden changes – text STOCK to 4196 to receive these free alerts.

All stockwater queries must be made via the Council office on 03 307 7700 (available 24 hours a day).

Property owners and occupiers are regularly reminded to check and clean the races on their properties.  Advice includes:

• Council will maintain the main races, however as a property owner/occupier with local races running through, you need to clean these races either mechanically with a digger or by spraying the bank edges with an approved herbicide.
• It is important that a clear and continuous flow is maintained to ensure downstream users can receive stockwater.  On-property culverts and bridges should be monitored to ensure they are not damaged or blocked with items such as buckets, bags, drench contains, baleage wrap etc.
• All cattle/deer/pigs must be fenced out of all stockwater races and not be able to enter the race at any point except at a correctly installed drinking bay.  Stock must not be able to stand in the race bed.
• When trimming hedges or trees growing along the edge of a race, the trimmings must be removed immediately.  Placing a gate at the nearest downstream culvert can prevent the trimmings passing through the culvert and causing blockages further downstream.
• It is recommended that you implement an alternative stockwater supply on your property, such as making use of water storage tanks. Council does not guarantee the delivery of stockwater across the entire network, and should the summer be as hot and dry as predicted, this will be even more difficult.
• If you are considering closing or altering a race on your property, you must complete the necessary application forms provided by Council prior to any work commencing.