Barwon Water urges greater efficiency following a drop in Geelong’s reservoir

Barwon Water has reported a drop in inflows at Geelong’s most important reservoir, serving as a reminder for residents and visitors to target their water use.

Barwon Water’s Summer water saving campaign is in full swing following below-average rainfall and reservoir inflows.

General manger of customers and community Jo Murdoch said this year’s early rainfall across the Otways had boosted storages, but the long-term trend showed below-average rainfall occurring across the region.

“We actually had below-average rainfall at West Barwon Reservoir in 8 out of 12 months in 2020,” she said.

“Since 1997, we have seen a 32 per cent drop in average inflows at West Barwon Reservoir when compared to the long-term average prior to that year.”

Barwon Water is now urging the public to consider their water usage through the state’s permanent water saving rules.

“Permanent water saving rules are a set of common-sense rules in place across our region to help conserve water all year round,” she said.

“The rules cover things like the times you can water your garden, using a broom instead of water to clean leaf litter off paths and driveways, and fitting hoses with trigger nozzles and if you’ve got a fountain or water feature it must recirculate water.”

Other water saving rules include only using irrigation systems after 6pm and before 10am, fitting hoses with a trigger nozzle, recirculating water in fountains, and avoiding using water to clean hard surfaces where possible.

“During the Millennium Drought, and even more recently during the 2015-2016 El Niño and the hot dry start to 2019, we learned that water storages can draw down rapidly in dry periods,” Ms Murdoch said.

“That’s why it’s crucial everyone targets their water use.”

Ms Murdoch said whether you are staying at home or moving across the region it is crucial that you look to conserve and preserve water.

“We have water saving tips on our website, and plumbing programs to help repair leaks- get in touch, we are here to help,” she said.

To find our more about permanent water saving rules and other tips and information head to barwonwater.vic.gov.au