Have your say on the region’s future water needs

The Northern Rivers community is being asked to help plan sustainable water supplies for the region.

Rous Water’s Chairman, Councillor Col Sullivan, invites residents, industry representatives and community organisations to be part of the development of its Future Water Strategy for the region.

“To ensure we can continue to deliver a safe and sustainable water supply well into the future, Rous Water is developing a Future Water Strategy to guide long-term water planning,” Councillor Sullivan said.

Councillor Sullivan said community involvement was essential for the development of the Future Water Strategy.

“The Future Water Strategy will be developed in consultation with the community over the next two-and-a-half years. To develop a strategy that’s right for our region, we need the community to have their say,” he said.

“A Project Reference Group will be formed as the key way for the community to provide input into the development of the strategy. The PRG will include representatives from the community, government, industry, business and community organisations.

“However, the PRG is just one way to be involved and have your say. We’ll provide regular updates on the progress of the PRG, the development of the Future Water Strategy and provide opportunities for community input.

“I encourage community members to register online or by phone to receive regular project updates.”

The Future Water Strategy will consider:

• For how long will Rous Water’s existing water sources meet future water demand
• To what extent could additional water-saving initiatives extend the ability of existing sources to meet future water demand
• Whether alternative sources of water, such as recycled water, can be used to delay development of new water sources
• Whether additional new sources of water, such as the Dunoon Dam proposal, are necessary to meet future water demand.

Rous Water’s General Manager, Kyme Lavelle, stressed that Rous Water’s existing water sources can comfortably meet demand for water in the short to medium term.

“However, we believe it’s essential to plan for the future so we are prepared for changing water needs and future growth in the region,”Mr Levelle said.

“The final Future Water Strategy will describe the actions Rous Water will take to secure a safe and sustainable future water supply for the region and will provide certainty about water planning and infrastructure over the coming decades.”

Mr Lavelle said the development of the Future Water Strategy followed on from two community meetings held in August 2008 to discuss the Dunoon Dam proposal.

“Rous Water has listened to community feedback that asked us to look more broadly at water supplies and potential alternatives,” he said.

“We’ve acted on this feedback and are developing a holistic plan. This will look at a range of alternatives, options and information, including the proposed Dunoon Dam.”

To be involved in the development of the strategy, register your interest in joining the Project Reference Group or find out more information, freecall 1800 159 882 or email futurewaterstrategy@terracecomm.com.au

For more information, visit www.rouswater.nsw.gov.au

PICTURE: Rocky Creek Dam is used to supply drinking water to the Northern Rivers area stretching from Woodburn in the south, north to Ocean Shores and west to Lismore (courtesy of Rous Water).

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