Orford and Triabunna to enter stage three water restrictions

Stage three water restrictions have been enacted at Orford and Triabunna.

The restrictions will come into effect on April 27 due to dry conditions across the East Coast and no significant rainfall in the medium- and long-term forecasts.

TasWater Head of Communications and Engagement Liz Hafner said the decision to implement stage three restrictions for the two towns was not made lightly.

“We appreciate the efforts the communities in Orford and Triabunna have already made in reducing water usage over the previous months, but unfortunately, we are left with no option but to increase restrictions further,” Mrs Hafner said.

“Orford and Triabunna’s water is fed from the Upper and Lower Prosser dams, which are under extreme pressure during this period of minimal rainfall.

“The Upper Prosser Dam currently sits at 18 per cent capacity and is facing further drops unless significant rainfall arrives.

“Fortunately, due to a release from the Upper Dam, the Lower Dam sits at 83 per cent capacity, but the reality is that without significant rain, that will not last long.”

Under the restrictions, watering of residential, public and commercial gardens is limited to levels intended to prevent long-term vegetation damage and watering of lawns is banned.

“This will mean a change to the routines of some residents, but these changes will significantly boost the amount of water available in the system,” Mrs Hafner said.

The restrictions aim to reduce non-essential water use by approximately 75 per cent.

“Once we’ve seen consistent rain and stronger flows into the dams, we will move to lift restrictions,” Ms Hafner said.

“For now, the escalated limitation of water use will help us ensure it is available when residents, visitors and businesses turn on their taps.”