Preparations are full steam ahead to provide easier and expanded recreational access at Warren Reservoir within weeks, as the Marshall Liberal Government continues to expand activities at reservoirs around South Australia.
Fishing is already allowed at Warren, including from a canoe or kayak, with a RecFish SA permit, however a permit is also required for other recreational activities.
Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the State Government will introduce a new system that only requires a permit for fishing, allowing easier access for kayaking, cycling, bushwalking and picnicking.
"To support the government's recreational access initiative, we're taking a new approach in the ongoing management and authorisation of fishing at reservoir sites," said Minister Speirs.
"Permits for kayaking and other non-fishing activities will no longer be needed, and existing annual fishing permit holders will only need to reapply through the incoming permit system when their current fishing permit expires."
Minister Speirs said various work and planning is happening behind the scenes in readiness for expanded access at Warren by the end of October.
"We're improving visitor safety through additional fencing and signage as well as creating better access to the water's edge for fishers and kayakers," said Minister Speirs.
"A community-driven research project is also identifying opportunities to improve the habitat available for native fish breeding, with bathymetry experts using high-quality sounder devices to generate a model of the reservoir's bed.
"This survey work will be an exciting step in providing a sustainable, long-term fishing source for South Australians to enjoy.
"Fishing has proved to be one of the more popular activities South Australians are looking forward to at the reservoirs, and it's important we work with the recreational fishing community and manage fish stocks sustainably so anglers can continue the activity well into the future.
"Opening Myponga Reservoir for recreational access earlier this year demonstrated delivery of both economic and tourism benefits, and with extra activities soon to be available at Warren, we anticipate the surrounding Barossa region will reap similar rewards.
"The Marshall Liberal Government went into the 2018 election with a clear commitment to opening up reservoirs for South Australians to enjoy while maintaining drinking water quality, and we're excited that easier access for South Australian families to enjoy Warren is just around the corner."
In addition to Warren, Bundaleer, Beetaloo reservoirs, fishing is expected to be available at Myponga and South Para reservoirs by the end of the year.
More information on recreational access and how to access relevant fishing permits can be found at reservoirs.sa.gov.au
