SEARCH THE SITE
Frequently Asked Questions - Voluntary Permanent Water Saving Measures
Where do these voluntary permanent water saving measures apply?
These measures apply in all areas supplied with town water in the Byron, Ballina, Lismore and Richmond Valley local government areas.
Why have these measures been introduced?
They are simple, sensible guidelines for using potable water in a sustainable way. They are designed to encourage water saving habits throughout the Rous region. Our focus is to educate the community about using water wisely and how to reduce waste of water.
Why are these measures called ‘permanent’?
These measures will now be in place on an ongoing basis, irrespective of dam levels. In the event of drought conditions, they would be superceded by water restrictions.
Are these measures the same as water restrictions?
No, these measures are separate to the mandatory water restrictions that are introduced from time to time during drought conditions. These measures are voluntary.
Why are the measures voluntary?
These measures are designed to educate the community about using water in a sustainable way on an ongoing basis. They are separate from the mandatory water restrictions that are implemented during drought conditions. No fines apply for not complying with these measures.
Can I be fined for not complying with these measures? What penalties apply?
No. These measures are voluntary. While everyone supplied with town water is being encouraged to follow these measures in the interests of conserving potable water, no penalties apply for non compliance.
What can I do if I see someone ignoring the measures?
You can report any non compliance by calling Rous Water on 1800 450 203. Even though no penalties apply, Rous Water can contact anyone known to be not following the measures and give them a reminder about the voluntary measures that are in place. Our focus is on educating the community about sustainable water use.
I live in Lismore Shire so do I follow these voluntary permanent water saving measures or the odds 'n ' evens watering regime?
These voluntary permanent water saving measures apply throughout the Rous region so we encourage you to follow the recommended watering times between 6am and 10am and 3pm and 10pm. If you live in the Lismore Shire you are encouraged to follow the odds 'n' evens watering regime as well. This regime is being promoted as an added water saving initiative by Lismore City Council.
Could the measures be made permanent and enforceable?
The measures are permanent in that they are now in place on an ongoing basis. There are no plans to make them enforceable at this stage. Separate mandatory water restrictions would be introduced in the event of drought conditions. Level 1 water restrictions would be introduced if the water level in Rocky Creek Dam fell to 55%. Unlike these measures, mandatory water restrictions are enforceable and fines do apply for non compliance.
Why do we have to conserve water when the dams are quite full and Rous Water has just completed the Wilsons River Source of water?
Using water sustainably is a long term goal of Rous Water and local councils. We want to ensure that we have adequate water supplies for many years to come. Ceasing the use of water for unsustainable practices is fundamental to making our supplies last for as long as possible.
Isn’t Rous Water building a new dam anyway?
Rous Water is developing a Future Water Strategy which will consider the building of a new dam and other alternatives for future water supply. In any event, these future water sources are some years away from being built so we need to ensure that the water we have is not wasted or used foolishly.
Who chose these particular water saving measures?
Rous Water prepared these measures in consultation with a regional steering committee and submissions from the public earlier this year. Some of the measures were changed as a result of the public comments received. The measures have now been adopted by Rous Water and the Byron, Ballina, Lismore and Richmond Valley councils.
What happens elsewhere in Australia?
Many places in Australia have permanent water restrictions and some places have voluntary water saving measures such as these ones. Similar rules apply in the Sydney Metropolitan area and South East Queensland. We are trying to be proactive by introducing these voluntary measures well before we reach drought conditions.
How will we know if these measures make a difference?
Rous Water will be monitoring water consumption across the Rous region and regular updates will posted on the Rous Water website at www.rouswater.nsw.gov.au.
What is the best way to monitor my property’s water consumption?
Locate your water meter and record the reading early one morning before any water has been used by your household. Repeat this for at least 3 days and subtract each reading from the next to give you the consumption for 3 consecutive days. The black numbers on your water meter reading are the kilolitres and the red numbers are fractions of kilolitres. Average out your daily consumption and divide this by the number of people living in your household over those 3 days. Our target is 180 litres per person per day. If your average is more than 180 litres per person per day, look at ways you may be able to save water around your home.
-
Community Survey
A community survey conducted on behalf of Rous Water has found that the majority of water customers in the Rous region support the idea of permanent and mandatory water conservation measures.
-
A Change to our Water Treatment
Rous Water has announced that the treatment process is switching from chloramination (involving the addition of chlorine and ammonia) to chlorination (chlorine only).
-
Voluntary Permanent Water Saving Measures
Rous Water and local Councils in the Rous region have introduced Voluntary Permanent Water Saving Measures
-
-
Rous Water Plans for the Future
Rous Water has embarked on a major new project to develop its Future Water Strategy.
-
Inquiry into Secure and Sustainable Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Services
In September 2007, the then Minister for Water Utilities, the Hon. Nathan Rees, MP, commissioned an Inquiry into current and future arrangements for the control and management of water supply and sewerage services in regional and rural areas throughout the State.
-
Big Scrub Rainforest Day 2009
Big Scrub Rainforest Day will be held on Sunday 20 September 2009 at the Bangalow Showground.
-
-
Frequently Asked Questions - Voluntary Permanent Water Saving Measures
answers to frequently asked questions relating to the voluntary permanent water saving measures introduced on 5 Oct 2009
-
Future Water Strategy PRG
Nominations are now open to join the Future Water Strategy Project Reference Group.
-
National Water Week 18-24 October
Let’s make every week Water Week in our region! Find, use and enjoy games, songs, factsheets and more.
-
Reconnecting to Country - Detailed Design process
Between April and June 2009, the four Reconnecting to Country local working groups hosted a series of community workshops
