That's why we are launching a campaign urging our politicians - at all levels of government - to deal with the water crisis that is gripping NSW.

It's all very well to sit around a table and talk about planning, but our regions are running out of water.

Guyra has less than 80 days of supply left - but this town is in a better position than most, with construction of a pipeline from Malpus well advanced.

Murrurundi council is carting water into the town and relying on bores to meet demand.

Tamworth is already on Level 4 water restrictions,

and while Level 5 could be a few months away, what does that mean for the coming summer?

If the recent federal election showed us anything at all, it's that the water crisis is not front and centre like it should be.

Our farmers have been struggling for a long time, and our businesses are definitely feeling the pinch, so why isn't planning being fast-tracked?

As part of the campaign we are going to highlight some of the options that are on the table. We are going to hold our elected representatives and authorities to account, for the future water security of our region.

But how can we make a difference? By letting our politicians know we won't accept second best.

Send a letter to the editor or write directly to your local member.

We want our regional voice to be heard, and acted upon.

Fiona Ferguson

Editor, NDL