ONE council has called on its people to cut back on water use as the town's supplies continue to dwindle.
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Upper Shire Council mayor Wayne Bedggood has reminded Murrurundi resident level six restrictions remain in place and current water use is unsustainable in the town.
Murrurundi has been on level six measures for nine months and the council has been drilling bores and carting water into town since the start of the year.
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In December 2018, the town was using an average of 188kL per day.
By February, daily water usage had risen to 250kL and has remained at this elevated level.
"We know that many residents are taking their water conservation very seriously, but we need everyone to renew their efforts," Cr Bedggood said.
The $225,000 bore and the $160,000 water carting bill have all come at a cost to the council.
Financial assistance from the NSW government is only available to cover essential supply as determined by level six water restrictions, so increased consumption is not subsidised.
If water use drops, the council could return to using only the in-town infrastructure, and stop water carting, which would save the ratepayers of the shire, substantial funds.
Under level six restrictions town water must not be used for to water lawns, top up pools or water features and no washing of outside surfaces or vehicles is permitted.
Shorter showers, shallow baths, filling dishwashers before use and other ways of minimising water use are encouraged.
Residents are also urged to be on the look out and contact the council immediately if they see evidence of leaks or other water wastage.
Residents, especially new residents, who have any questions about water restrictions can drop into Council or call 6540 1100 for more information.
