Without further rainfall, water restrictions are likely to be introduced in the towns of Boolarra, Thorpdale and Seaspray in coming weeks.

Gippsland Water managing director David Mawer said low stream flows, which are deteriorating rapidly, have brought about the restriction warning for the corporation's small water supply systems.

"While we have not yet decided what level of restrictions will be introduced, it is highly likely mid-range restrictions will be introduced in these towns in the very near future," Mr Mawer said.

Boolarra, Thorpdale and Seaspray allr ely on flows from small streams for their various water supplies and are susceptible to changing conditions, particularly over the hot and dry summer months.

Boolarra's reticulated water is sourced from Walkleys Creek, Thorpdale's from Easterbrook Creek, and Seaspray's from Merrimans Creek.

Gippsland Water will continue to provide alternative water supplies to its customers, and in addition, is undertaking a number of projects to secure long term water sources for these areas.

Gippsland Water is urging the entire community to remain vigilant and conserve water wherever possible, and will continue to keep its customers informed about the introduction of water restrictions over the coming weeks.

Mr Mawer added that the corporation is very conscious of the impact water restrictions have on communities and individual lifestyles, and will continue to look at ways to help its customers reduce their water use. This includes offering customers free water saving showerheads as part of hte Showerhead Exchange Program, and assisting non-residential customers who use more than 10 million litres of water per year in managing their water use through the Water Management Action Plan (waterMAP) scheme.

"Initiatives like these encourage the local community to become aware of other ways to save more water, particularly at a time when water restrictions are imminent."

Currently, Permanent Water Saving Rules apply to all towns within Gippsland Water's service area.

The key Permanent Water Saving Rules are:

• Always use a trigger nozzle on hoses.
• You can only use automatic or manual watering systems from 8pm to 10am daily.
• You can wash your car or water your garden or lawn with a hose fitted with a trigger nozzle at any time.
• You cannot hose paved areas.
• You must apply to Gippsland Water to fill your pool or spa if over 2,000 litres.

For more information about water restrictions and Permanent Water Saving Rules, visit Gippsland Water's website at www.gippswater.com.au or contact Gippsland Water's Service Centre on 1800 066 401.

29 January 2010