Last week marked the 50th anniversary of the completion of Copeton Dam described as an engineering achievement for regional NSW with the dam wall and spillway sitting just under 1km apart.
Built in three stages and drawing on the expertise of workers from the Wyangala Dam enlargement project, Copeton Dam’s storage capacity increased progressively from its commencement in 1968.
It grew from 111,000 megalitres to 863,000 megalitres through the first two stages, before reaching its final capacity of 1,365,000 megalitres with the installation of the spillway gates in March 1976, before opening in October.
The dam quickly became a vital source of water security for communities, irrigators and the iconic Gwydir Wetlands. Today, Copeton Dam continues to ensure water security across the region.
Celebrating this milestone, WaterNSW recognise the vision, determination and hard work that brought this incredible project to life, and the dedication of everyone who has and continues to care for it.
Pictures: WaterNSW
