The Tumut wetlands is an area that is important for its environmental, natural and cultural values, having been used historically by surrounding communities for religious, spiritual and historic reasons. Photo: Snowy Valleys Council.
Snowy Valleys Council has closed access to the Tumut Wetlands following the detection of wastewater overflow in the area and is consulting with the NSW Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the next steps.
An area of about 20 hectares, the Tumut wetlands comprises a series of lagoons fringed by native reeds, stands of the giant River Red Gum forests and the Tumut River flowing steadily along the east of the site.
The Tumut wetlands is an area that is important for its environmental, natural and cultural values, having been used historically by surrounding communities for religious, spiritual and historical reasons.
For now, closure signs warning people to stay clear have been erected at entries to the wetlands’ walking paths near Gocup Road and the caravan park.
A Snowy Valleys Council spokesperson said staff investigated the area following a complaint about a foul odour in the vicinity.
“Investigations discovered a maintenance hole on one of the main lines to the wastewater treatment plant had overflowed due to a blockage,” the spokesperson said.
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The council has confirmed the blockage in the maintenance hole has now been cleared and the potential for further overflow resolved.
“Initial water testing in the wetlands area showed traces of contamination so as a precaution, access to the wetlands has been closed off until the water quality is back to acceptable levels,” the spokesperson explained.
“Council staff are in continued contact with the EPA and will reopen access to the wetlands as soon as possible.”
Wastewater blockages, or chokes, have common causes including tree roots, people flushing things down toilets that they’re not designed for, or stormwater entering the wastewater network and overloading it during heavy rainfall.
Investigations into the cause of the overflow are continuing and residents are reminded not to flush foreign matter down toilets such as wet wipes or other hygiene products, and to avoid pouring fats, oils and grease into sinks which can all cause wastewater blockages.
Transport for NSW have also been notified of the concerns as they are working in the area.
These wetlands provide a variety of habitats for more than 70 bird species and are a must-see for bird watching.
Tumut Wetlands is home to a number of waterbirds such as the Spotless Crake, Darter, Royal Spoonbill, Cattle Egret (which continues to extend its range south), Curlew Sandpiper, Rufous Night Heron, Australian Shoveler and the little Grassbird.
Other birds of interest are the White-bellied Sea-Eagle, Wedge-tailed Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and the beautiful Australian King Parrot.
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