MidCoast Council is urging residents and visitors to put the summer water savers program into action early – in fact, before winter ends.

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Normally introduced around early October, a prolonged drought in NSW is taking its toll and MidCoast Council is launching its ‘summer water savers’ message now, and warning that water restrictions will be introduced soon.

“For now, we’re urging everyone to be water-wise, conserve water wherever you can and follow our summer water savers tips,” says Council’s Director of Infrastructure and Engineering Services, Rob Scott.

“Our Water Services team initially thought restrictions would be necessary during this winter, but through good management, a great response from the community in conserving water use, and some very fortunate light rainfall, we were able to avoid restrictions during the winter months,” added Mr Scott.

“However, our environmental and engineering experts are closely monitoring river flows, long term forecasts for rainfall and water use figures, and it’s very apparent that Level 1 – Moderate water restrictions will be needed very soon, perhaps as early as the beginning of September.”

“If the weather that is forecasted eventuates, we’re modelling for the possibility of Level 4 – severe restrictions by October – right across the MidCoast region.”

An average year would have seen 802mm of rainfall on the MidCoast for the year up to 1 August. This year we’ve received 308mm.

Understandably, people ask lots of questions about how and when water restrictions are introduced, and the system is complex. We have an established system and trigger levels for introducing water restrictions, which are part of a larger NSW standardised system.  If you have questions, please visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/waterrestrictions.

There’s a chance to ask any questions you have, if they’re not answered there.

The Summer Water Savers message is ‘don’t spray in the middle of the day’ and in addition to sensible outdoor water use, encourages everyone to try to save water inside and out at home.

“We’ve produced a handy summer water savers fact sheet to guide residents on the program,” said Mr Scott. In addition, visit www.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/savewater for online tips and help to conserve water.

Mr Scott said Council would issue regular updates to the community in the coming weeks regarding water restrictions.