To keep Communities safe, we’re clearing vegetation at Maroubra Reservoir

Maroubra Reservoir is officially classified as a dam, it is an essential Sydney Water asset that provides drinking water to 27,000 homes in the Maroubra area.

Dam safety regulations requires us to clear the embankment around the reservoir from trees, shrubs and other obstructive ground cover.

In accordance with the the Dams Safety Act 2015 and the Dams Safety Regulation 2019, we will be removing vegetation (predominantly trees and shrubs) from dam embankments and within five metres of the base of embankment.. This will allow Sydney Water to effectively assess ground, below ground and structural conditions of our dam and minimise safety and operational risk.

Why this work is essential:

Regular maintenance of dam embankments is required to ensure slope stability and to permit observation of any cracking, sliding or seepage, for example:

• The roots can dislodge joint fillings and penetrate cracks in concrete walls or foundation rock possibly leading to crack widening and concrete or rock deterioration resulting in increased leakage.
• Vegetation roots can disguise absorb and transpire substantial amounts of water and, therefore, could prevent early detection of water leaking through cracks and joints in the wall or foundation.
• Toppling of trees during windstorms can cause damage to the embankment, wall or foundation if substantial material is dislodged with the root system.
• Trees and large shrubs limit access and visibility and prevent effective inspection for early identification of structural issues.
• Vegetation can also provide habitat and cover for ground burrowing or digging animals (eg. foxes, rabbits) that may also impact and threaten the safety of the embankment.

How will cleared areas be rehabilitated?

The cleared areas will be covered by turf and maintained according to vegetation standards for our dam assets. This will enable us to carry out regular inspections and maintenance.

At Maroubra we will:

• Relocate suitable native plants away from the clearance zone and towards the perimeter of the site.
• Plant non-invasive endemic vegetation outside the clearance zone
• Install habitat boxes to support local bird and bat populations.
• Undertake offset planting in collaboration with Randwick Council to ensure the preservation and enhancement of green spaces and habitat corridors in the area.