MidCoast Water has launched a 30-year water management plan for Taree (NSW) to provide sustainable water services for the future.
MidCoast Water’s general manager, Ken Gouldthorp, and board chairperson Aled Hoggett launched the ‘Our Water Our Future’ strategic plan in April 2016.
‘Our Water Our Future’ details the issues MidCoast Water expects to face over the coming decades and provides options and possible solutions, as well as details of the five key planning elements for delivering water supplies into the future.
“These elements involve reducing water use, ensuring water quality, securing water supplies, recycling and effluent management, and servicing small villages,” Mr Gouldthorp said.
‘Our Water Our Future’ was developed in discussion with regulators, local councils and the community, by a team of MidCoast Water staff supported by a broad based project reference group.
“The consultation process undertaken in preparation for this plan was one of the most extensive MidCoast Water has undertaken in many years, and it is pleasing to know the strategy we are now implementing is reflective of our community’s aspirations,” Mr Gouldthorp said.
‘Our Water Our Future’ highlights the continued importance of water conservation solutions such as water smart appliances, rainwater tanks and leak management.
Mr Gouldthorp said these methods will help prevent the need for expensive infrastructure projects.
“It also shows the need for more pipes, storages and treatment plants. These include the proposed Nabiac Aquifer project that will help secure water supplies in Taree and Great Lakes,” Mr Gouldthorp said.
“The strategy also identifies the need for water storages for Bulahdelah, Stroud and Gloucester and a further focus on increasing the reuse of treated wastewater.
“At the same time MidCoast Water will continue our investigation of a second storage dam for the Manning water supply scheme and look at options for indirect potable reuse of treated wastewater.”
View the ‘Our Water Our Future’ water management plan here.
