Drought water abused
Strathbogie Shire Council recently arranged for the installation of two new stand pipes at Euroa and Violet Town for use by the community for stock and domestic purposes. These two new stand pipes complement the existing stand pipes at Nagambie and Arcadia.
The water for the new stand pipes is provided by agreement with Goulburn Valley Water and is subject to conditions including a requirement that the stand pipes are kept locked when not in use and that the water not be used for drinking.
Regretfully, over the Christmas period, the Violet Town stand pipe lock securing the stand pipes was cut, and large quantities of water were taken by single users. Users of the stand pipes are reminded that the stand pipes must be kept locked when not in use; and that each user is limited to drawing 3,000 litres per day.
A new lock has now been placed on the Violet Town stand pipes, and the amount of water taken will continue to be monitored. If the lock is removed again or individuals take more than 3,000 litres of water per day, the stand pipe will be closed.
Director Asset Services at Strathbogie Shire Council, David Westphalen, said, "In this current drought, the stand pipes are an essential resource for the community. However, they are provided subject to conditions and it is important that the conditions are met.
If the locks are cut or stolen again from the Violet Town stand pipes, it is likely that it will be closed. I urge the community to be on the lookout and if they see anyone taking large amounts of water or cutting the locks, please contact the Strathbogie Shire Council Office on (03) 5795 2010 or after hours on 1800 065 993.
Council will take every step possible to safe guard our valuable water. I know that the requirement to get a key and log water use causes some inconvenience but it is important that we adhere to the conditions of use of the water if the supply is to be continued."
For more information: Marli Kelly on 0409 410 178 [5 January, 2007]
For details/interview call the Editor on (03) 5798 1858