14 September 2006

 

SA Water says the South Australian community can take a number of steps to prepare for potential water restrictions this summer.

 

Following the Premier’s announcement that water restrictions will be implemented from mid-October if the State does not receive comprehensive rainfall, SA Water has opened its Drought Response Hotline and updated web-based information for the community.

 

Permanent water conservation measures remain in place and SA Water is encouraging the community to continue abiding by these sensible, responsible and simple water efficient measures.

 

“There is a lot people can be doing now to water proof their homes and gardens for summer,” SA Water Head of Infrastructure and Planning Roger Perry says.

 

“Making sure irrigation systems are working efficiently, fixing any leaks inside or outside the home, mulching the garden and installing water efficient products are all good steps to take now. These small steps do have a large effect on conserving water and they assist us in managing water supplies in a sustainable way.”

 

SA Water is continuing to assess the weather and consumption forecasts, reservoir levels and inflows into local catchments and the River Murray and will advise the Government over the coming weeks.

 

It is likely that the potential water restrictions for 2006 will mirror the Level 2 restrictions imposed in July 2003. Level 2 restrictions include an odds and evens system for garden sprinklers and stricter requirements when filling swimming pools, spas, fountains and ponds, washing cars and boats and watering sports grounds.

 

In the meantime, the community is encouraged to seek advice from local nurseries, garden centres, irrigation specialists and plumbers on steps they can take to make their homes and gardens water wise.

 

For more information contact the SA Water Drought Response Hotline on 1800 130 952.