Maribyrnong River (winter-fill)

We set trigger levels using historical stream flow data for both the implementation and lifting of bans on the taking and use of water.

The triggers have been set to ensure water is shared fairly between licenced diverters and the environment.

Trigger levels

Bans are implemented or lifted when a catchment-specific trigger has been met, based on an instantaneous stream flow.

The Maribyrnong River is a regulated system, relying on a combination of releases from Rosslynne Reservoir and natural catchment flows to supply water for irrigation demands. The rules governing the sharing of water resources amongst stakeholders and the environmental are set by the government in a Bulk Entitlement Order.

We issue licences to individual irrigators to take water in accordance with the Maribyrnong Bulk Entitlement. All-year licence holders can take water at any time throughout the year provided the instantaneous stream flow is above the ban level described in the table below. Conversely, winter-fill licence holders can only take water during the high-flow period (01 July - 31 October) in any given year provided stream flows are above the specified ban level.

The full details for the licence conditions can be found in the Maribyrnong bulk entitlement.

Flow levels are monitored by gauges (data logging stations) that provide continuous flow readings. The data logging station for Maribyrnong River is located at Keilor (230105A).