The New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has fined Snowy Hydro and its contractor Webuild $30,000 over two alleged pollution incidents in 2022.
The authority said despite warnings from officers the companies had inadequate sediment and erosion controls in place at two locations in the Kosciuszko National Park.
The authority alleged that in June 2022 a sediment plume was created that stretched more than two kilometres down Yarrangobilly River, and in September sediment-laden water from roadworks at Tantangara impacted the Nungar Creek.
An investigation launched by the EPA found Snowy Hydro and Webuild failed to adequately implement specific measures at the two locations required to address potential pollution incidents.
Both were issued $15,000 penalty notices over the incidents.
Protection 'essential'
NSW EPA executive director of regulatory operations Carmen Dwyer said the incidents "simply should not have occurred".
"The environment around these local waterways in the Kosciuszko National Park contains highly specialised plants, animals and micro-organisms, and is home to a number of endangered species like the smoky mouse and the alpine tree frog," Ms Dwyer said.
"Actions like this can severely impact the environment, not just now but for years to come, and can be detrimental to many species."
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said the companies received the maximum fines available.
"It's a fragile alpine environment that should have the highest protection available," she said.
"This is a worry."
Ms Sharpe said Snowy Hydro had an important role to play in the future of the state.
"The broader message here is nobody is above the law and we all need to take care of the environment," she said.
"Protection of the environment is essential."
Snowy Hydro and Webuild have been contacted for comment.
