Works are continuing this evening on the wall of a farm dam at Scenic Hill Road, Huonville.

Water was found to be leaking from the dam wall this morning, and earthworks have been undertaken to increase the size of the dam’s spillway this afternoon in order to reduce the level of water.  The earthworks will reduce the water pressure on the dam wall.

The dam is on private property and contains up to 20 megalitres of water.  It is about one hectare in size.

This morning Police and SES voluneers doorknocked about 100 properties located below the dam site to advise residents to leave their homes until the dam is determined to be safe.

It is anticipated that sufficient water will have been released from the dam by about 7pm this evening.  The Huon Valley Council and Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment will inspect the dam and assess whether it is safe.   

Police will issue advice when it is safe to return home.

A Recovery Centre has been established at the Huon Valley Police and Community Youth Club to assist any residents who have been temporarily displaced.  The telephone number for the Recovery Centre is 6264 3115.

Inspector Ian Lindsay, Kingston Police