Wilsons Contracting is working on the Manuherikia river on the edge of Alexandra for the energy generator Contact Energy as part of its consent conditions with the Otago Regional Council (ORC). 

This work is part of Contact Energy’s consent conditions with the Otago Regional Council for the operation of the Roxburgh Dam.

The confluence of Manuherikia River and Clutha River/Mata-au showing recent diggings

Under the conditions of the consent, Contact Energy must maintain the riverbed levels of the Manuherikia River within the bounds of defined minimum and maximum levels and keep the fastest flow or deepest water along the river’s course.

A Contact Energy spokesperson said the contractors would remove 73,000 cubic metres of gravel and sediment from the Manuherikia River near the Galloway Bridge and the confluence with the Clutha River/Mata-au at Alexandra.

Gravel and sediment stockpiled on the bank of the Manuherikia River

“The removed sediment is stockpiled and then trucked to designated disposal sites,” they said.

“We expect machinery operations in this area between February and July this year.”

Material removed from river beds will be processed and used in the building sector and roading infrastructure maintenance and construction.    

PHOTOS: The Central App