Minister for Water, Dave Kelly says households can help combat the effects of climate change on water supply this winter by switching off garden irrigation now.
Mr Kelly said the annual Winter Sprinkler Switch-off was a permanent water efficiency initiative that required scheme and bore water users in Perth, Mandurah and parts of the South-West and Great Southern to turn off reticulation from 1 June to 31 August.
“Water Corporation research shows most households do the right thing, with nine out of 10 switching off their sprinklers during Winter,” Mr Kelly said.
“During these cooler months, lawns go dormant and plants do not require as much water, meaning it is the perfect time to save water for when we need it most.”
He also encouraged households to switch off reticulation not just in Winter, but also during periods of unseasonal rainfall at other times of the year.
“The switch-off applies to both scheme and bore water users. However, hand watering is permitted and some exemptions may apply,” Mr Kelly said.
“Water Corporation inspectors are out seven days a week monitoring for unauthorised sprinkler use during the switch-off period. Anyone in the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off area spotted using their sprinklers risks a $100 fine.”
He said all Western Australians know the importance of staying waterwise and the Winter Sprinkler Switch-off was one of many ways people could contribute towards liveable, sustainable and resilient communities in the future.
