Lake Rosebery will remain off-limits for at least another two weeks as crews continue the extensive cleanup of a significant oil spill.
An estimated 4,500 litres of oil leaked from an old storage tank into the West Coast lake at Tullah following heavy rainfall earlier this month.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has now fully mapped the spill, providing a “comprehensive picture” of its extent.
According to EPA Director Wes Ford, oil was found across approximately 30.6km of the 52km shoreline mapped, affecting the water and surrounding vegetation.
Crews are currently analysing data to determine the best long-term strategies for cleaning affected areas and supporting impacted wildlife.
“Water and shoreline-based teams continue to be vigilant for oil impacted wildlife while undertaking operations and a dedicated oiled wildlife spotter has been deployed to the site full-time,” Ford said.
Hydro Tasmania has begun the process of lowering the lake by 30cm to facilitate shoreline access for clean-up efforts.
“Lowering the lake is part of the tactical response and will allow for more shoreline-based clean-up using waders rather than boats,” the EPA said.
“It will also give extra clearance in the gorge where oiled foliage is located on steep and difficult to reach areas.”
Trials are currently underway in the gorge to determine the most effective cleaning techniques for impacted vegetation and rocky shorelines.
The lake will remain a prohibited area until 11:59pm on February 14.
