THE Fraser Coast Regional Council has jumped into action after a vandalism incident at the Cassava Dams near Howard.
Illegal visitors allegedly dumped a stolen vehicle and oil in the waterways.
CCTV cameras will now be installed at the site.
Division 9 Councillor David Lee said access to Cassava Dams is restricted to prevent the water from being contaminated.
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The catchment covers an area of about 30 square kilometres and forms part of Hervey Bay’s water supply.
“It’s extremely concerning that Council staff have had to deal with vandalism and contamination issues, including engine oil being dumped in the water and a stolen car being pushed into the dam and set alight,” said Cr Lee.
“Council infrastructure has also been damaged, including being shot, and it is ratepayers who have to foot the bill for the clean-up.”
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The dams are in the headwaters of Beelbi Creek.
“The mindless acts not only risk contaminating Hervey Bay’s drinking water supply [but] there is also a danger that pollution could reach the ocean at Toogoom,” Cr Lee explained.
He said it was sad Council would have to install cameras to protect the site.
“Residents are reminded that while the Cassava Dams are off limits for public use, there are many other fantastic facilities across the Fraser Coast where people can enjoy the natural environment such as Lake Lenthall or the Wongi Waterholes.”