Water restrictions unlikely this summer

By Bianca Hall

Jan 4, 2023

Good news: While storage levels remain high, people are encouraged to follow the Permanent Water Saving Rules to ensure water use remains sustainable and minimise water wastage. Photo by AAP

Despite an overall warming and drying climate the region’s water storages are in a good position heading into 2023.

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The 2022 Annual Water Outlook by Goulburn Valley Water was released in December.

The report shows the likelihood of water restrictions being introduced is classed as rare or very rare across all main water supply systems.

Goulburn Valley Water managing director Steve Capewell said following several wetter than average winters, storage levels had increased, particularly with late winter and spring rains this year.

“We’re seeing our off-river storages in the Euroa district sitting at 100 per cent capacity and the Kilmore system sitting around 90 per cent,” Dr Capewell said.

"Which is fantastic news, as three years ago we had to implement water restrictions in both regions following low rainfall inflows and drought-like conditions.

“However, climate projections show that we are more likely to experience declining water availability and more frequent and severe droughts in the future as a result of climate change.”