Three Tasmanian communities have been placed under stage one water restrictions from today, after months of low rainfall and increased demand.
Orford and Triabunna on the east coast, along with Lady Barron on Flinders Island, are now operating under the restrictions.
TasWater General Manager Customer and Community Matt Balfe said the decision comes as the region prepares for an influx of visitors during the upcoming school holidays.
“As we approach the busy school holidays and break, it’s important for us to ensure there is enough water for everyone,” Balfe said.
“Conditions have been very dry across the state leading to high water usage, and the outlook from the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts no significant rain forecast over the next few weeks.”
The restrictions should reduce non-essential water use by 20%, Balfe said, by encouraging more conscious water consumption at home and work.
Flinders Island has been especially hard hit, with prolonged dry conditions over the past two years putting extra pressure on local water supplies.
Balfe said even small changes in daily habits can make a big difference.
“It might seem like there is plenty of water around the state, but that is not the case,” he said.
“Small changes to water usage, like taking shorter showers and using the half-flush on the toilet, add up to have a huge impact on water supplies across the state.”
