(1) The operation of Copeton Dam during times of flood and spilling of water is to be undertaken in a manner that maintains the safety of dam infrastructure.
(2) Providing it is consistent with subclause (1), operation:(a) should leave the storage at full supply level at the completion of the flood or spilling of water,(b) during floods should ensure the general rate of increase of outflow does not exceed the rate of increase of inflow,(c) should aim to lessen downstream flood damage where possible, and(d) may involve temporary storage of water above the normal maximum available storage level to reduce flood effects, and management of the rate of release of this water to avoid aggravating downstream flood damage.