The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority (EGCMA) advises that an attempt will be made to open the entrance of the Snowy River estuary this week.

At the time of writing, water levels were 0.82m above AHD (Australian Height Datum) on the gauge located on the public jetty in Marlo. This is also around the level of the levee systems.

“Work is scheduled to happen around Wednesday, subject to favourable conditions,” EGCMA chief executive officer, Graeme Dear, said.

“Parks Victoria will put a contractor to work to dig a channel across the sand beach to open the entrance. To ensure community safety we ask all people to follow any instructions given by Parks Victoria staff.”

When the estuary opens the water levels often drop very quickly. Management of safety on the worksite is of primary concern, so it is essential members of the public do not enter the worksite while an opening is underway.

Those with moored boats need to also monitor water levels as mooring ropes can tighten when the water levels drop.

The sand edges along the banks of a newly opened channel are particularly vulnerable to caving in and the water current can be rapid and choppy. Keep a safe distance from the edge at all times.

Further information about estuary conditions can be found on the EGCMA
website.

PICTURED: With water levels in the Snowy River estuary now at a suitable level, East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority advises an attempt to open the river’s entrance will be made this week. (Photo: Marlo Drone and Video/Mike Irvine)