Two landholders in the Port Macquarie-Hastings have had action carried out against them after they were found to be in breach of the Water Management Act 2000.
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The Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) conducted Operation Waterwise in October 2019, which included some site inspections in the Port Macquarie area.
A NRAR spokesperson said the first landholder had multiple unapproved dams, whose total capacity exceeded the maximum harvestable right for the property.
"This is an offence under section 91B of the Water Management Act 2000," she said.
"The landholder incurred a penalty of $1500 and was required to reduce the capacity of the dams."
The second landholder was directed to remove an unlawfully constructed weir across a major watercourse.
"This landholder incurred a penalty of $750," the NRAR spokesperson said.
Operation Waterwise was carried out across the North Coast region.
The campaign was created to respond to reports from members of the public about alleged breaches of the Water Management Act 2000, including potential unlawful dams, unlawful works in creeks and rivers and unlawful water extraction.
Director Regional Water Regulation (East) Greg Abood called Operation WaterWise a high intensity site inspection program.
"This allows NRAR officers to address a number of alleged breaches in a short period of time, while focusing on high-priority areas and issues," he said.
Ten NRAR officers conducted 32 inspections at sites near Taree, Gloucester, Port Macquarie, Kempsey, Coffs Harbour, Glen Innes, Kyogle, Casino, Grafton, Murwillumbah and Byron Bay.
NRAR's risked-based approach meant that officers conducted site inspections and interviews at properties.
Officers also helped water users understand their obligations for accessing and using water.
"Campaigns like this are not just about identifying instances of non-compliance," Mr Abood said.
"They are a chance for officers to remind water users of their obligations for accessing and using water, and this is an important part of how NRAR improves voluntary compliance."
Mr Abood also urged water users to know their licence and approval conditions to avoid any potential breaches.
To make a confidential report on suspected water misuse, contact the NRAR Hotline on 1800 633 362 or email nrar.enquiries@nrar.nsw.gov.au
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