GOOLWA – Alexandrina Council is responding to the state government’s Lower Lakes and Coorong Recovery Plan with a number of recommendations, including the council’s opposition of additional regulators and weirs installed in the region.

The recommendations put forward to council by the General Manager of Strategic Enviro-economic Development, Graham Webster, also states that the Clayton regulator be removed as soon as sufficient freshwater flows are restored and that council will not support the introduction of seawater into the lakes.

During the Alexandrina Council meeting held on September 7, councillors assessed the recommendations made by Mr Webster and added to the list that various levels of government will need to fully consult the community regarding changes to water allocation and the river system.

After preparing the recommendations, Mr Webster said he is feeling positive that the river is on the mend but is concerned for those who are affected by the matter.

“(Council) is particularly concerned for irrigators who are, or were, dependant on a healthy lake system and the people of Milang and Clayton, who are having a terrible time with the regulators,” he said.

“I do feel confident that, in time, we will have a sustainable river system, managed by the Murray-Darling Basin Authority with a sustainable plan in place. It will however, take time for other states to agree,” he said.