REGULATOR UPGRADE AT YENDA

23 July 2004

Murrumbidgee Irrigation is replacing the Six Foot Drop regulator located upstream of the Yenda water treatment plant with a high tech, fully automated structure. The structure will be operational by the end of August for the commencement of the 2004/05 irrigation season.

"The new regulator has an increased capacity of 2,000 ML, is fully mechanised and will be operated remotely," said Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive of Murrumbidgee Irrigation. "Our infrastructure replacement program identifies structures nearing the end of their lifespan and looks to replace those items with the best technology has to offer."

Precast units have been completed and the concrete floor poured. Reinforcement fabrication and formwork for the side walls is being completed. The total cost of the project is estimated at $1,120,000.

"The Six Foot Drop regulator is an important site in our total system upgrade. Once the regulator is in place a number of smaller upgrade projects will commence. Our infrastructure program is aimed at improving system efficiency and reducing losses. The Six Foot Drop site will make a considerable contribution to those objectives," said Mr Hipkins.

As the name suggests the Main Canal drops six feet (1.8m) over the regulator. The new structure has therefore been designed to support a mini hydro-power unit that will take advantage of the change in level.

"The mini hydro scheme is a project for the future. Having the capacity to generate electricity through our delivery system is a fantastic option and will become an asset for our irrigation area," concluded Mr Hipkins.