THE Warren Reservoir will be open to unregulated recreational activities by the end of October, according to water minister David Speirs.

Mr Speirs announced last Tuesday the State Government is set to introduce changes that would allow the public to kayak, cycle, bushwalk and picnic inside the reservoir, south of Williamstown, without a permit.

Recreational fishers will still need a permit from Recfish SA to drop a line in the waterway.

Mr Speirs said safer access to the water’s edge and better fencing and signage will be implemented at the reservoir before the end of next month to allow it to be opened for recreational use.

“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,” he said.

“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 government is also looking to open up the nearby South Para Reservoir for recreational activities, with fishing set to be permitted by the end of the year.

SA Water held two community forums at the Williamstown Soldiers’ Memorial Hall in May and September to inform residents about the expected changes to both local reservoirs.

SA Water customers, strategy and innovation general manager Anna Jackson said community members had provided valuable feedback.

“We’ve had a positive response to expanding activities like bushwalking, bike riding and kayaking, and we’ll be preparing the reservoirs for these activities over the coming months by creating more car parking, picnic and other visitor amenities at South Para and improved signage, fencing and water access at Warren,” she said.

“There is clear interest for more natural spaces for people to explore, and plans are also under way to create a trail network connecting the reservoirs to nearby conservation parks, forestry land  and Williamstown.”