Residents are urged to make every drop count when it comes to water usage.
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Wingecarribee Shire Council has called on residents to support its ongoing Water Wise Initiatives designed to ensure the shire's water supply remains safe, clean and secure over the warmer months.
NSW is currently experiencing one of the most severe droughts on record with the continuing dry spell having a significant impact on dam storage levels across the state.
Level one water restrictions are currently in place for Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the Illawarra.
Council's Water, Sewerage and Drainage assets coordinator, Tim Day, said that compared to many neighbouring regions the Southern Highlands was fortunate to have above-average storage levels.
"At the current usage rate we've got considerable water capacity, however, that doesn't mean we shouldn't join-in on conservation efforts," he said.
"Council monitors our shire's water consumption and dam storage levels on a daily basis.
"Should conditions continue to deteriorate and storage levels fall below a pre-determined amount, then water restrictions will be introduced.
"There are a few simple steps you can take to help conserve water around your home."
Council's Water Wise Initiatives include:
- Sprinklers and irrigation systems - Avoid watering in the heat of the day and only use sprinklers or irrigation systems before 10am and after 4pm.
- Hoses - Handheld hoses should have a trigger nozzle and watering should be avoided between 10am and 4pm.
- Clean-up - Instead of hosing hard surfaces like driveways, use a broom to clean up leaves, grass clippings, dirt or dust.
- Washing vehicles - Wash your car on the lawn wherever possible. This helps to water your lawn and avoids adding to stormwater pollution.
"Remember, every drop really does count," Mr Day said.
For more information visit www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/water-wise-initiatives or contact Wingecarribee Shire Council on 4868 0888, between business hours Monday to Friday