Scientific surveys are being carried out in Merimbula Bay to inform the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and concept design for the Merimbula Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) Upgrade and Ocean Outfall Project.
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The EIS will assess the social, economic and environmental impacts of the construction and operation of the project.
The marine ecology surveys provide information about marine habitats and will supply data to refine maps of the area.
Underwater videos will be taken at selected locations to identify habitats and groups of fish.
The first marine ecology survey ran from September 29 to October 3 and the second survey is running from October 8 to 15.
In September, a marine geophysical survey was conducted to gather information about ocean depth, seabed profile and conditions below the seabed, also part of the project's EIS process.
This project involves upgrading the Merimbula STP, constructing a new ocean outfall and investigating reuse options, taking into consideration factors such as the shape of Merimbula Bay, the need to protect our lakes and vital oyster industry, and our duty to safeguard public health.
In 2013, the NSW EPA amended the Environment Protection Licence for the Merimbula STP to require Bega Valley Shire Council to upgrade the plant and construct an ocean outfall.
You can find out more about the project by:
- Visiting the project website by clicking here;
- Calling the toll-free phone number 1800 029 478; or
- Emailing merimbulaSTPupgrade@begavalley.nsw.gov.au.
