Using water wisely – even in the wet
Despite a very active wet season, recent water restrictions highlight the ongoing need to use water wisely as demand continues to grow.
Darwin has experienced one of its wettest seasons in recent years. Yet just a couple of weeks ago, the Top End was facing water restrictions as a result of having too much water.
It’s a timely reminder, that no matter the season, we all have a role to play in using water wisely.
Annual demand for water is expected to more than double by 2050. While new water sources are being developed, it’s vitally important to make better use of the water we already have.
The NT Government is leading the way by improving water use in schools, hospitals, parks, and recreational facilities. In particular, there is a strong focus on early leak detection and more efficient irrigation.
Recently, Power and Water and the Office of Water Security delivered a Best Practice Irrigation Workshop for NT Government staff, hosted by the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens.
The workshop covered six key concepts for efficient irrigation:
- apply the right amount of water at the right time
- invest in durable and uniform systems
- use technology to optimise irrigation performance
- map irrigation systems and develop a site handbook
- find and repair leaks fast
- use data to build a business case for upgrades.
Participants heard real case studies from the Botanic Gardens’ horticulture team as well as from a local high school, and came away from the workshop with clear, practical actions they can apply back at their own sites.
The workshop highlighted that efficient irrigation could deliver real benefits, saving water and money.
In addition to this workshop, Power and Water has installed devices on a range of NT Government water meters. These devices transmit water-use data to an online dashboard, making it easier to track regular consumption and spot leaks early. Training has been provided to NT Government staff to help them understand and use this data effectively to make decisions.
These initiatives form part of the Water Demand Management Strategy, led by the Office of Water Security in partnership with Power and Water. The initiatives are also complemented by the expansion of Power and Water’s Living Water Smart program.
To get practical tips and resources to improve your own irrigation system at home or work, go to the Living Water Smart website.
For more information on how government is saving water, go to the Water Security Northern Territory website.
