The first major river flow to arrive in the Menindee Lakes since 2016 has wet soil that has remained dry for years, ending a prolonged period of no-inflows.
The water made its way down the Barwon-Darling river system into Lake Wetherell, following good rainfall in February. Flows are expected to continue over the coming months.
NSW Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said Lake Wetherell could see inflows of between 230 to 260 gigalitres, equating to more than 12 months of town water supply for the Lower Darling.
“It’s a relief to see this water replenishing parts of the state that have arguably endured the longest and most severe of the drought conditions,” Mrs Pavey said.
For more information on water restrictions for regulated river, unregulated river and groundwater water sources, visit Water in NSW.
Learn more about drought in NSW.
