8 December 2010

MEDIA RELEASE

Stratford Residents Urged to Save Water

Stratford District Council is urging Stratford residents to keep the use of water down to a minimum.

Since Monday 29 November, water restrictions have been introduced including a total ban on sprinkler and irrigation systems and on unattended hoses.

Due to dry weather, river levels for Stratford have dropped increasingly forcing a restriction on the amount of water the Taranaki Regional Council allows to be taken from the water ways.

Mike Oien, Services Asset Manager says, “these are introduced to ensure enough flow remains to support the eco system”

“Should the Taranaki Regional Council require further extraction reductions to protect the eco system, the Stratford District Council would co-operate. And in this event it is likely a total ban on water use such as, watering your garden or washing your car would be introduced” said Mr Oien.

The Stratford District Council Bylaw allows Council to impose increasing strict controls to ensure the continuation of a basic supply of water.

Stratford water is taken from the Patea River catchment which is approximately 5kms down from the national park. Over the last two weeks the Patea River level has been as low as 0.83m.

The last two years have not required any water restrictions, however due to a very dry October and November these restrictions are the earliest they have been required in the district, but only by two days.

There are currently hose restrictions in place so houses with even numbers can use a hand-held hose only on even numbered days; and houses with odd numbers can use a hand-held hose only on odd numbered days.

ENDS

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