The township of Guyra will enter into level 3 water restrictions next Tuesday 23 April when the Guyra Dam reaches 40 percent.
Continued dry conditions across the region, zero inflow from the catchment since February 2019 and no significant decrease in water usage means Guyra will run out of water by August 2019.
The Bureau of Meteorology forecast is for continuing dry conditions over winter so no inflows are expected.
Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray said it’s a serious issue and we need everyone to conserve water.
“I cannot stress enough how important it is for residents of Guyra to save water and reduce their consumption,” said Cr Murray.
“We just don’t know when this drought will break in our region and we must make every effort to conserve our water supplies.”
From Tuesday residents will not be able to use garden sprinklers and fixed hoses, hand held hoses, drip irrigation for lawns and gardens, high pressure cleaners or filling private swimming pools. Buckets and cans can be used for the garden and for washing vehicles for 2 hours only and not during the heat of the day 9am – 4pm. Aged and disabled residents are able to use a sprinkler or fixed hose for 15 minutes on Wednesday and Sunday.
The Malpas Dam to Guyra pipeline is expected to be commissioned in mid August and will provide a back-up to Guyra’s water supply. However if the dams reach critical levels before the pipeline is commissioned water cartage may be the only option.
Business owners who rely on water for their commercial operations may be able to apply for an exemption by contacting Council. However these businesses must be able to demonstrate in their application water saving practices that significantly reduce water consumption.
Council will commence water patrols in Guyra next week. Under the Local Government Act 1993, the maximum penalty that may be applied for a breach of imposed water restrictions in $2,200 for corporations and $220 for individuals.
