WaterNSW is advising landholders and the community along the Great Darling Anabranch (GDA) of a significant change in water management: the cessation of releases from Menindee Lakes to the GDA.

This decision comes as the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is ceasing their call on the shared resource that previously necessitated these releases.

The process of stopping the flow is being implemented in stages:

• As of Tuesday, May 13, the Packers Crossing Regulator on the GDA was closed. This action specifically ceased flow to the lower GDA.
• Following this, on Thursday, May 15, the Lake Cawndilla Outlet is scheduled to be closed.

This closure will cease all releases to the GDA from Menindee Lakes.

The immediate consequence of stopping these releases is that flows are expected to recede over the coming months.

This recession will occur as the water currently in the system drains along the entire length of the river.

In light of these receding flow levels, WaterNSW is advising landholders and community members on the GDA to take proactive steps.

They are specifically encouraged to monitor river levels closely2. The reason for this close monitoring is to allow them to make necessary arrangements.

These arrangements are crucial to ensure infrastructure and livestock are not impacted by the dropping water levels.

Based on the information provided in the sources, the primary focus of this announcement is on the practical implications for the community and landholders due to the expected reduction in water levels, prompting the need for preparation to protect assets and livestock.

The sources do not detail broader ecological impacts on the Great Darling Anabranch ecosystem resulting from the cessation of these releases.

This article appeared on Back Country Bulletin on 17 May 2025.