Lake Macquarie residents should feel reassured following the results of a study, which assessed their health around nearby power stations with coal ash repositories.

Water and sediment samples were collected across multiple locations within the southern side of the lake as part of the research led by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

And, the latest outcomes demonstrate current regulations are delivering effective safeguards.

Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) scientists found low levels of contaminants in water and sediment samples and no evidence of significant environmental impact from power stations.

NSW EPA executive director of regulatory practice and services Steve Beaman said coal ash required strict management to protect the environment and surrounding communities.

“Lake Macquarie/Awaba has a long history of industrial and urban activity around the area, including power stations and coal mines,” he explained.

“Despite showing signs of historical contamination, data reveals the lake’s health has improved with metal concentrations dropping over time and this trend is likely to continue.

“Using cutting-edge techniques, like environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis to study genetic material in lake sediments, our research builds a solid foundation of the lake’s current health and will help us track future changes.

“Insights from the three-year study will feed into our ongoing commitment to deliver a strong regulatory framework for coal-fired power stations.

“The results will also help strengthen future monitoring, remediation activities and inform how we can further protect and safeguard Lake Macquarie and other waterways.”

Water and sediment samples were independently tested and analysed by DCCEEW scientists for 20 metals including lead and cadmium, as well as nutrients in the water, helping to understand impacts to marine life and the lake’s ecological health.

The project was part of the NSW Government’s response to the Public Works Committee Inquiry into the costs of remediating coal ash repositories, with an initial investigation of Lake Macquarie helping to understand its environmental impacts.

The findings were also independently reviewed by an expert panel including representatives from CSIRO and Australian National University.

To learn more about the Lake Macquarie monitoring program and results, visit https://epa.nsw.gov.au/lakemacquarieresults

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