Last week the National Capital Authority warned that the flap gates on Scrivener Dam were banjoed and they’d have to undertake expensive works to fix this crucial piece of infrastructure.
Deep in an FAQ they managed to mention that, oh yes, the water level of the lake was going to be going down, and staying there for the eighteen months the work will take.
The ABC reports this has caused some degree of concern with lake users and coincided with a fishkill.
But groups which use the lake for recreation and sport say the lower level is making it harder to launch their rowing and sail boats, and to navigate the lake safely.
ACT Rowing president David Bagnall says it is creating significant health and safety problems for school rowing programs.
“Some of the schools are talking of closing down,” he said.
“It’s getting near the end of term, but they are really worried about their rowing programs and are looking for some sort of solution that will enable them to continue into the future.”
On the bright side some lost treasures are coming to light.
And in the bigger scheme of things most waterways rise and fall by far larger margins than half a metre.
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What’s Your opinion?
Low tide on Lake Burley Griffin
09 Dec 11
I had no idea the water was so shallow around the edges of the lake… Shows you how dirty that water really is…
09 Dec 11
Erm, I think those complaining about the low water level might be a bit more aggrieved if the dam never gets fixed!
Although, 18 months does seem like a long time to undertake the repairs.
09 Dec 11
that might be why some locals have become all excited about finding a giant Murray Cod in there.
09 Dec 11
Or maybe a pink Bunyip.
09 Dec 11
anyone got any theories on the dead fish? can’t be just a coincidence.
09 Dec 11
kennardly said :
Silo dumping their mayo?
09 Dec 11
You missed this bit johnboy:
[qoute]
“Why has the Bowen Place crossing been placed on hold?
The engineering works at Scrivener Dam need to commence immediately if they are to be completed within the recommended timeframe.
$10.8 million was allocated for Bowen Place crossing. This money will now be reallocated to the engineering works project at Scrivener Dam.”
The dam must be pretty f%$ked if they have to do this so urgently.
10 Dec 11
Didnt they just spend a bunch of time and money rebuilding the flap gates of the dam?
10 Dec 11
I can’t believe folk still propel their watercraft out onto that toxic puddle..Overboard and one gulp and you will be watching your nuts go green in less than 4 weeks..
11 Dec 11
With the water levels down, now would be a good time to do a bit of a lake clean out.
13 Dec 11
PantsMan said :
I read in either the CityNews or Canberra Weekly that the anchor bolts are showing signs of corrosion. The structural integrity should be fine for another year or two, hence the urgency of beginning repairs that will take 50 – 80 weeks.
Transcript of Scrivener Dam media announcement 11am, 1 December 2011 by NCA chief executive, Mr Gary Rake