Goodbye and good riddance, Traveston Dam
Date: 11-Nov-2009
The Australian Conservation Foundation has warmly welcomed the decision by Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett to reject the proposed Traveston Dam because it would “have serious and irreversible effects on nationally listed species”.
“Damming the Mary River would have devastated the unique lungfish and Mary River Turtle and it would not solve south-east Queensland’s water woes,” said ACF’s Sustainable Australia Program Manager, Monica Richter.
“There are better, more reliable and more sustainable alternatives to secure south-east Queensland’s water supply.
“This new era of creating water-sensitive cites means we need to be smarter in how we use our water by reducing demand and greater use of stormwater harvesting, recycling and rainwater tanks, saving billions of litres of water each year and giving south-east Queensland with the water it needs without the damage of a dam.
“Dams have a disastrous effect on the environment – as a general rule they stop about 80 per cent of species in the affected area from reproducing.
“The devastating environmental impacts of this proposal have been clear for years and it is encouraging to see these recognised by the Environment Minister.
“We commend Mr Garrett for making a decision based firmly on the science.
“We look forward to finally seeing an end to this unloved and unnecessary project with the prompt finalisation of the Minister’s decision.
“It is now time for the Queensland Government to back sustainable water supply alternatives that south-east Queenslanders can be proud of.”
Photo: Chris Van Wyk