A new waterway restriction at Greens Lake is expected to come into effect soon, which Goulburn-Murray Water says will keep visitors safe.
When the lake falls below 47.4 per cent capacity, or 100 in Australian Height Datum, G-MW implements a five-knot speed restriction.
The restriction will apply to the entire lake, excluding the area near the pump house on the northern end, which vessels are completely prohibited from.
Greens Lake was 51 per cent full on Friday, November 29, and, depending on weather conditions, could fall below 47.4 per cent within a month.
G-MW recreation and land officer Chris Braden said the restriction was crucial for ensuring safety.
“Greens Lake is quite a shallow storage, so when its capacity drops, it becomes dangerous for boaters to travel at speed,” Mr Braden said.
“With recent months having been fairly dry, water levels at the lake have been steadily declining, and it now seems very likely we will need to implement the rule in the coming weeks.”
The lake’s boat ramp will soon be out of the water, limiting larger speed boats from accessing the lake.
Smaller craft, such as fishing boats, may still launch from the bank below the boat ramp.
Mr Braden asked visitors to make safety their priority when visiting the waterway - which is around 10 minutes west of Stanhope - and said it was vital people are mindful of other users and respected the rules.
“With the weather warming up, it’s fantastic to see more and more people heading to the lake. But as the lake’s capacity falls, there becomes less space on the water for everyone to share,” Mr Braden said.
“We greatly appreciate people’s patience and cooperation while this rule is in place.”
More information on Greens Lake rules and current water levels can be found at www.gmwater.com.au/greenslake.