28 February 2013

Dry conditions lead to Level Two Water Restrictions being introduced

Due to dry weather conditions, limited bore water supply and high water demand the Palmerston North City Council will introduce Level Two Water Restrictions as of Saturday, 2 March 2013 until further notice.

Water consumed in the city is derived from a small number of bores and the Turitea Dam located in the foothills of the Tararua Ranges.

For residents, Level Two Water Restrictions mean:
• The use of fixed sprinklers and any unattended hoses, garden irrigation systems is prohibited at all times.

• Hand held hoses can only be used between 7pm and 9pm on odd numbered days for those who live at odd numbered addresses, and even numbered days for those who live at even numbered addresses.

Water asset engineer Dora Lou says we’ve had hardly any rainfall since the 5th of February.

“Throughout summer water usage, in the city, has been carefully monitored and Level Two restrictions have only been introduced following detailed analysis of the situation and weather forecasts.”

“We believe it is prudent to introduce Level 2 Water Restrictions at this time and we’re asking residents to reduce water use/consumption to prevent a more serious situation from occurring.”

Dora Lou says the decision has been based on a number of factors:

• The water level in the Turitea Dam is currently about 1.8m below spillway in the upper dam and the water level is lowering at the rate of about 0.2m/day.

• The long-term weather forecast is not looking overly promising. A small amount of rain is predicted for this Sunday / Monday however, it is unlikely to be sufficient to replenish the dam.

Dora Lou says Palmerston North City Council and staff are taking steps to limit the use of water at council facilities, gardens and lawns. “This measure will have a very noticeable effect across the city.”

“We’ll continue to monitor water consumption in case further restrictions are required. And, contingency planning is underway should there be a major problem with one of our water sources.”

Meanwhile, Ashhurst, Longburn and Bunnythorpe residents are being advised that while no restrictions are currently in place, Council staff are monitoring the situation and if the dry weather continues water restrictions may be required.

For more information please contact:

Editor’s notes:

Palmerston North City Council has four levels of restrictions, they include:

Level 0: No restrictions apply

Level 1: Sprinkler use evenings only, every two days. Unattended hoses, sprinklers, and garden irrigation systems can only be used between 7pm and 9pm; for even numbered houses on even dates, and odd numbered houses on odd dates. Handheld hoses can be used at any time.

Level 2: Sprinkler use prohibited. Handheld hoses only, every two days. Unattended hoses, sprinklers, and garden irrigation systems can not be used. Handheld hoses can only be used between 7pm and 9pm; for even numbered houses on even dates, and odd numbered houses on odd dates.

Level 3: Irrigation prohibited. Unattended hoses, sprinklers, garden irrigation systems and handheld hoses can not be used. Car washing by handheld hose is also prohibited.

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