Total ban on all domestic sprinkler use

Gisborne District Council thanks all residents who have been adhering to the current sprinkler restrictions and making efforts to conserve water.

However, continued high water demand in dry conditions has pushed Gisborne District Council to move to Water Alert Level 3 from today (Wednesday 20 February 2013). Alert Level 3 means there is now a total ban on all domestic sprinkler use.

The total ban on sprinklers is required to ensure continued supply of drinking water, says Marcus Koll, Water Team Leader. “Demand for water is still high and unfortunately alert Levels 1 and 2 have only had a small impact in reducing demand.

Council considers moving to Alert Level 3 a necessary measure to manage our valuable resource. Water from the Mangapoike dams is currently being supplemented by water from the Waipaoa Treatment Plant as we move into the busy harvesting season.”

The NIWA long-term weather forecast predicts dry conditions over the next three months, it is therefore important that proactive steps are taken now. There is also a restriction on non-essential outdoor water use and sprinklers for commercial and non-residential properties.

There are no water restrictions on industrial users; however Council has contacted the top twenty industrial water users individually. Council has asked management to advise their staff to use water sensibly wherever they can.

To date Gisborne District Council has received 10 complaints around improper water use. Water Utilities Inspectors follow up all of these complaints to ensure people are aware of the current restrictions.

Those with concerns about improper water use can report this by phoning Customer Services 24 hours a day6 seven days a week on 06 867 2049, emailing service@gdc.govt.nz or completing the e-fix form on Councils website.

For further information about water restrictions and water saving tips, please visit http://www.gdc.govt.nz/saving-water/

ENDS

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