Water activities at Storm King Dam have been restricted in the interest of community safety due to current water levels.
Storm King Dam’s capacity is currently at 56% and Southern Downs Regional Council has restricted recreational water activities to ensure the safety of community members using the dam.
Power boats, jet skis or water skis at the dam are currently not permitted. Small motor boats with engines of six horsepower or less and traveling less than 10 knots are still permitted.
Signs at the entry to the dam, boat ramp, old boat ramp, recreational area and caravan park advising the public of the restricted activities were erected last week.
Southern Downs Mayor Tracy Dobie said community safety is a number one priority for Council.
“We want the community to enjoy all the outdoor activities our region has to offer but we also have a responsibility to ensure people’s safety,” Cr Dobie said.
“It should be safety first at all times when using our region’s dams but as dam levels drop the risk of exposed and submerged hazards in shallow water increases.
Cr Dobie said restrictions would be eased when conditions at Storm King Dam improved.
“I urge those community members who continue to use Storm King Dam for permitted activities to continue to be cautious as Council continues to monitor water levels,” she said.
“Storm King Dam fills very quickly when the dam’s catchment area receives good rain.
“Council will ease restrictions when conditions improve and water levels mean it is safe to do so.”
For more information, please call SDRC on 1300 697 372.
15 January 2019 – MEDIA RELEASE