Busselton Water reveals 17 per cent increase in water use in September during National Water Week

The Busselton region’s scheme water supply has revealed it is experiencing a significant spike in demand as it encourages water conservation.

Busselton Water chief executive David Hughes-Owen has revealed it supplied 17 per cent more water in September than it did during the same time last year.

It comes as the utility provider urges sustainable water use as part of National Water Week, which ends on Sunday.

“Our September water usage figures showed a 17 per cent increase in supply on the same period last year and we’re obviously looking to halt that trend as we head towards summer,” Mr Hughes-Owen said.

“If we’re going to ensure there is water for our children and their children, it is vital that we work together as a community to preserve and protect our finite water supply.”

Busselton’s water supply is drawn from the Yarragadee aquifer, which lies hundreds of metres below the city surface.

It is used in the South West region for drinking water supply and is slowly recharged by rainfall.

But average rainfall in the region is expected to decrease by up to 25 per cent over the next 20 years and at the same time the area is experiencing increases in its population.

It is a situation which is leaving the city’s water supply more fragile, with coastal bores set to be replaced to reduce the risk of saltwater intrusion.

Mr Hughes-Owen said he was hopeful for positive change.

“We strongly believe that improving peoples’ understanding of where our water comes from and how our water is managed will have a positive impact and influence people’s water usage, behaviours and attitudes,” he said.

Alongside a competition for school students starting this week, Busselton Water is encouraging households to reduce their water use by checking for leaks around their house, make sure reticulation systems are running only twice a week and being waterwise in the house.