Water system running at capacity: November use highest in 10 years - 3/12/2010Infrastructure and Property Committee Chair Cr Ray Stevens today said Wanganui’s water supply systems are running at capacity, with the highest water consumption in 10 years recorded during November.
“During November, Wanganui used 900 million litres of water,” Cr Stevens said.
“That is more than we used in the peak month of last summer when the total was just over 827 million litres. Water consumption is traditionally highest in February, although last summer January was the peak month. The daily consumption at the moment is 36 million litres, whereas last year we didn’t exceed 36 million litres per day.
“With predictions of a dry summer ahead, it’s timely to remind people to be aware of their water use and to follow the sprinkler use rules.”
Cr Stevens said the council had approved water use plans in place for some facilities, including public gardens and bowling greens.
“There are also private bores around the district which are not governed by the sprinkler rules. For example, Virginia Lake and Bason Botanic Gardens have their own systems.
“The weather patterns have been extreme – we’ve gone from the wettest September to the driest November on record, so it’s a good time for our community to think about their water use and to remember the sprinkler rules.”
Automatic garden sprinklers can be used any day but only between 7.00pm and 9.00pm. Hand-held hoses can be used at any time. The council will begin monitoring sprinkler use early next year.
Mayor Annette Main also encouraged the community to take personal responsibility for adhering to the sprinkler rules.
“We are lucky to live in Wanganui where we have a good water supply system and a good climate, unlike parts of Australia where communities have to drink recycled wastewater. If we all stick to the rules, we can help ensure our water supply is maintained over the coming summer months without the need for water restrictions.” | 
