Water releases start at North Pine Dam

From today, Seqwater will begin gradually lowering the level of North Pine Dam (Lake Samsonvale) by about two metres.

More than $69 million of staged strengthening works are set to begin later this year, with the lake drawdown and dam wall reinforcement all part of delivering enhanced safety benefits at North Pine Dam ahead of the main dam upgrade.

Seqwater Executive General Manager of Operations Fiore Zulli says releases to lower the dam from 36m Australian Height Datum (AHD) to 34m AHD would be done at a low-flow rate to minimise the impact on the community and environment.

“North Pine Dam has been operating at a reduced supply level of approximately 68 per cent capacity since 2019 and while it continues to operate safely under normal conditions, we’re taking further precautionary measures this wet season by lowering the lake to about 54 per cent capacity to manage existing infrastructure during large inflows,” Mr Zulli says.

“The drawdown will have no impact on the region’s water security, as North Pine is one of several drinking water supply dams connected to the SEQ Water Grid and our combined dam levels remain high.

“We will be carefully controlling these releases, adjusting them as needed in consideration of weather events and downstream flows.”

The lower lake level of 34m AHD will be maintained until the staged strengthening project is completed, after which the lake level will be regularly reviewed while planning continues for the main dam upgrade.

Mr Zulli says temporarily lowering water levels is typical to manage dam structures while upgrades are planned.

The lake level will be comparable to that seen in dry periods in recent years, and Seqwater will take measures to ensure boating and fishing can continue safely.

While picnic areas and recreational facilities are expected to remain open, visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for the changed water levels and check the Seqwater website or download the Seqwater app for the latest information before visiting.