How big is the proposed dam at the South Branch?
The resource consent application includes a 75m dam, of which 45m is within a natural gorge and 30m runs out to the side as an earth dam. The water level will be at 630m RL (or 5m below the maximum height). Our hydrology work has determined the optimum size we will need to meet the objective of irrigating close to 40,000 hectares. The method of irrigation used and the reliability of the water supply both make a huge difference to the amount of water that needs to be stored.
