Water restrictions to be introduced at Orford and Triabunna

Stage one water restrictions will be in place at Orford and Triabunna from February 2.

TasWater Acting Head of Communications and Engagement Liz Hafner said the restrictions aim to reduce non-essential water use by 20 per cent.

“With warmer, drier weather and an increased demand due to the busy school holiday period, stage 1 restrictions will be implemented to help ensure water levels remain adequate to support the community’s needs,’’ Mrs Hafner said.

“Conditions have been persistently dry during December and January over much of the state, particularly on the East Coast, and the outlook from the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts no significant rain over the next few weeks.

“It might seem like there is plenty of water around the state; however, Orford and Triabunna are supplied by a run-of-the-river system, which is heavily dependent on rainfall.

“We are asking residents and visitors to make small, mindful changes such as taking shorter showers, choosing the half-flush on the toilet and using hand-held hoses when watering gardens to help reduce non-essential water use.”

Mrs Hafner said the stage one restrictions would remain in place until further notice.

“We are also monitoring a number of catchments around the state and asking residents and visitors to Coles Bay, Lady Barron, Launceston and Scamander to be mindful of their water use, as without adequate rainfall, water restrictions may be introduced.”

Restriction guidelines can be found on the TasWater website.