Level one water restrictions introduced across the Shire
ENVIRONMENT
Level one water restrictions are now in force across the Douglas Shire as water intake levels have dropped below 300mm.
Water intake sites have seen a 60 per cent reduction in flow over the past month while average daily water consumption has experienced its usual increase for the peak tourist season.
The restrictions follow the Bureau of Meteorology’s latest climate outlook which indicates a drier than average period through to November this year.
During an unprecedented heat wave in November last year, Council was forced to introduce level three water restrictions for the first time ever.
Douglas Shire Deputy Mayor, Abigail Noli, said it was very pleasing to see that, considering the region has already had a long dry spell, Douglas Shire communities have shown restraint in water usage.
She is urging residents and businesses to continue to do their bit by consciously monitoring their day-to-day water use.
“Council encourages everyone – from tourists, to locals, to resorts and holiday house owners - to think about how they can reduce their water usage, particularly in their backyards and gardens,” she said.
“Being Water Wise in your everyday lives is crucial to ensuring we can avoid further restrictions through the dry period.
“Spreading mulch on your garden and watering early or late in the day to reduce evaporation are key tips to help maintain an attractive garden and save water.”
Based on previous water meter calculations, Council estimates that Port Douglas accounts for 65 per cent of consumption for all of Douglas Shire.
Level one water restrictions only allow irrigation systems to be used between 6.00 am to 8.00 am and 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm on alternate days.
Even-numbered houses or properties not prescribed street number can irrigate on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
Odd-numbered houses can irrigate on Tuesday, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Irrigation systems are not permitted on Mondays.
The Queensland Government has many water-wise resources available to assist residents and business in reducing their water usage, view them here.
More details about water restrictions in the Douglas Shire are available on Council’s website.
See the total rainfall observations for Port Douglas from the BOM here:
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