Harvey Dam overflowing
For the second time in two years, Harvey Dam is overflowing.
The dam, which was built in 2002 by the Water Corporation to cater for increasing population and economic growth in the area, is used for irrigation.
The dam has overflowed in five times in the past decade: in 2014, 2013, 2009, 2008 and 2005.
Water Corporation Regional Manager John Janssen said while the spectacle was very popular with visitors, access to the spillway was not permitted, and a 150 metre exclusion zone was in place.
In a press release he reminded visitors that safety must be of the highest consideration when visiting the dam.
“School holidays mean this is a great opportunity for the community to view the dam from the public viewing area beside the spillway, or from the picnic area located below the dam,” Mr Janssen said.
“Visitors must stay within these two viewing areas if they are planning a visit to the dam.”
Mr Janssen said that warning buoys were in place on the water, and a rope had been strung across the water body upstream of the spillway to notify people of the overflow danger.
“Water Corporation takes safety extremely seriously and will not permit any access to the spillway or exclusion area, which is clearly marked,” Mr Janssen said.
South West dams which are used for drinking water are around 92 per cent of capacity, just under 4 per cent less than the same time last year.
For more information about dam levels, visit watercorporation.com.au
