Williams River remediation project kicks off

Hunter Water has commenced remediation efforts to help protect the eroding river banks of the Williams River, spanning from Seaham to Clarence Town.

The remediation work involves the use of engineered rock and log structures for severely eroded stretches, bank revegetation, weed removal and the installation of stock management fencing.

To ensure safety, temporary boating restrictions will be in place between Clarence Town and Seaham during the work. This includes temporary exclusion areas and no-wash zones within the wakeboarding area, with river users encouraged to follow the directions provided by signs, markers and buoys.

Glen Robinson, Executive Manager Customer Delivery, Hunter Water, said, "The Williams River is an important asset to our community, and its preservation is crucial for both local ecosystems and our water supply. It is a vital component in supplying drinking water to over half a million people in the Lower Hunter, with around half of the water in Grahamstown Dam being pumped from this river system.

"Future population growth and the impacts of climate change mean the Lower Hunter needs a resilient and reliable drinking water supply from the Williams River to ensure the long-term sustainability of the region. Phase one of the package of work kicked off ... with several riverfront landowners committing to the remediation efforts on their properties," Robinson said.

The project was coordinated in collaboration with several government agencies through the development of the Erosion Management Plan for the Seaham Weir Pool. The partnership includes Hunter Water, Transport for NSW, Hunter Local Land Services, DPI-Fisheries, and the Port Stephens and Dungog Shire councils.

Hunter Water's Group Manager of Planning and Engineering and Chair of the Seaham Weir Pool Interagency Working Group, Rob Main, said, "We appreciate the support of local landholders and river users as we undertake this vital work. Together, we can ensure the Williams River remains a thriving and sustainable resource for future generations."

Image: Supplied