WINTER STORAGE RECYCLED WATER RELEASE

Central Highlands Water would like to advise of the following recycled water release.

Wastewater storage lagoons in the Central Highlands Water (CHW) region are near capacity due to recent sustained rainfall. As a result, to manage the Clunes Wastewater Treatment Plant, CHW will complete a controlled release of water into Birch Creek anticipated to commence in August 2023. CHW have notified EPA Victoria that a release of Class C water is necessary in accordance with our licence. Discharging excess treated wastewater from our storages helps to reduce any potential for uncontrolled overflows and protects infrastructure. Strict water quality monitoring processes remain in place to ensure we protect the health of our communities and the environment. We are committed to minimising impacts to the environment and human health from the release of water to streams. We expect these discharges will continue in line with licence conditions under the current conditions.