by Mat Churchill

The future of the region's water supply continues to be discussed on the Council's 'Your Say' forum, with an alternative water source being touted as a possibility.

A Council spokesperson said the feedback received from residents will have an influence on the final decision as to how water will be sourced to supplement Rex Creek's supply.

"The forum is the first step in the consultation process to gauge interest and community views. Depending on the results of this first stage, we will undertake a more detailed consultation process to feed in to the recommendation to Council on the next preferred supply," she said.

Early comments suggest that measures such as water tank rebates are a preferred alternative than tapping into another natural waterway.

"Don't ruin our natural environment, nor the look of our rivers. Introduce subsidised water tanks instead, because we don't want to drink chemically-poisoned water!" said one contributor.

"Don't take the easy option; determining new supplies before instituting a programme of mandatory water storage in bew-builds (sic) is pointless. Introduce rebates for ater (sic) tanks," said another.

The Council spokesperson said water tanks may not be enough to ensure water security.

"Rainwater tanks are mandatory on all new houses. Retro-fitting rainwater tanks into old houses can be a costly exercise if they are to be plumbed in to the toilets and laundry and are a decision of the property owner.

"Rainwater tanks are only one part of the solution. There are a range of demand management options which have been considered by the Council. . .

"Permanent water conservation measures are in place 100% of the time which are odds and evens garden watering, permitted between 5am and 9am and 5pm and 9pm. This encourages efficient use of water by not watering in the middle of the day.

"There is also a drought management plan in place which sets out the trigger levels for water restrictions."

The Douglas region's population is expected to grow to over 13,000 in the next 20 years (an increase of 0.7% per year).

A decision on the future water supply is likely to be made by the end of July this year.  To contribute to the discussion got to the Your Say Future Water web page.