Eppalock reservoir catchment project

Investigation of a proposed major storage on the Campaspe River in Northern Victoria showed that large sections of the catchment were very badly eroded, and that a comprehensive soil conservation scheme would be required to prevent excessive siltation of the future reservoir.

In 1959, a Parliamentary committee recommended that the storage be constructed, with a capacity of 320,000 ML, provided that funds were guaranteed over a 10-year period for erosion mitigation, soil conservation and extensive pasture improvement in the catchment; that the construction of the dam not be commenced until the catchment work was started; and that the Soil Conservation Authority carry out observations of the run-off from the catchment before and after the remedial works.

These recommendations were endorsed by the Government and work commenced. The Soil Conservation Authority applied a wide range of control measures after extensive soil and contour surveys. These measures included gully control structures and reinstatement works; protective fencing; erosion control earthworks; pasture improvement; farm re-design; and water supply. Comprehensive joint planning arrangements with landowners were an essential element.

Now, nearly thirty years later, the results have been very rewarding. The possible silt load entering the reservoir was reduced by over 80 per cent. Production from the catchment increased three-fold in many places. The catchment has been transformed, with improved pasture, the healing of erosion and the growth of thousands of trees. The combination of technologies and rural extension has been most successful.

Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering