Following the first floods in 2020 and 2021 Turf growers new the key factor for recovery was to clear the drains and creeks to allow flood waters to move off paddocks.  The longer turf crops are under water the higher chance of losing the entire crop.

There were four identified areas in the Hawkesbury that impacted a large number of growers:

• Buttsworth Creek – Wilberforce and Freemans Reach
• Pitt Town Bottoms
• Cornwallis (two locations)

Following the 2021 floods, Turf NSW was given permission to undertake work on Buttsworth Creek prior to the funding approval. Some local companies put the funds forward for this work and were reimbursed once the project funds were provided.  This work made a big difference in following floods reducing the time paddocks were inundated with flood water by half.  

It has taken a significant amount of time to work with authorities to allow the work on Pitt Town and Cornwallis areas to be undertaken.  In June 2024 the approval was provided and planning commenced. Turf NSW will work closely with contractors, Council and locals during the works.