FINDINGS from a recent technical investigation into the condition and management of a section of the Ovens River will be presented at a community forum in Milawa on Tuesday, November 19.

The forum will be held at Milawa Hall – 181 Milawa-Bobinawarrah Rd, Milawa between 2pm and 4pm.

In order to plan for the future care and management of the river, North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) engaged a consulting firm to investigate the condition and behaviour of the Ovens River from the Whorouly Creek – Ovens River confluence to the Hodgsons Creek – Ovens River confluence at Tarrawingee.

With that research now complete, the technical experts conducting the investigation will present their outcomes with an opportunity for community questions and feedback.

Water Technology have addressed the following questions as part of their investigation:

1. What is the geomorphic and floodplain condition, interactions, characteristics, and behaviour of the Ovens River system within the project area?

2. What are the current management requirements?

3. What are the stakeholder concerns and requirements?

4. How is the existing and new infrastructure influencing the interactions and behaviour of the Ovens River system?

5. What recommendations can be made to achieve the best possible outcomes for river health on a system level, with consideration of community/landholder outcomes?

Recommendations for the management of the Markwood/Ovens system will set the long-term objectives for this reach.

The Project Steering Group includes landholder representatives from both the left and right banks of the Ovens River as well as representatives from Goulburn Murray Water and the Rural City of Wangaratta.

To register your attendance at Tuesday’s forum or to make any further inquiries, contact Rebecca Damm at rebecca.damm@necma.vic.gov.au.