Water restrictions being considered
Water restrictions could be imposed in less than seven weeks as levels at Mangrove Creek Dam continue to fall despite recent heavy rains.
Levels at the dam were recorded at 52.4 per cent on Monday, September 12, with a drier than average Spring predicted by the Bureau of Meteorology.
Level 1 restrictions will apply when the dam level hits 50 per cent, but Budgewoi's Cr Greg Best says even this is not enough as drought conditions continue, calling for Level 2 restrictions.
His motion was meant to be debated on September 9 but the council meeting ended at 10.30pm with his motion one of two items on the agenda still to be dealt with.
Level 2 restrictions would prohibit the use of fixed hoses or sprinklers and limit use of hand-held hoses with nozzles to one hour a day, three days a week, during designated hours.
Watering of nurseries, commercial gardens, sporting fields and ovals would be restricted.
Under the Water Wise Rules, which apply at the moment, watering is permitted any day before 10am and after 4pm.
Meanwhile, the council has called on residents to use less than 150 litres of water per person per day.
Water and Sewer Director, Mr Jamie Loader said every Central Coast resident currently uses an average of 180 litres of water each day for activities like showering, washing clothes and dishes, cooking and cleaning.
"Despite recent rain, our region is affected by drought and we're asking every resident to save the equivalent of three buckets of water each day to meet the 150-litre target," Mr Loader said.
SOURCE:
Central Coast Council agenda 6.5, 9 Sep 2019