Vic water levels improve, worry remains

Melbourne's water level storages have improved in the past week but a jump in use
has authorities worried ahead of summer.
Storages have nudged back above 30 per cent for the first time since March, thanks
to good rainfall during the first half of September.
However, warm weather, a lack of rain over the past week and a comparison with
storage levels at the same time last year and in 2007 provide a sobering reminder
that the drought persists.
The major catchments received 2.7mm of rain last week, well below the long-term
average of 36.1 mm.
Storages are now 30.2 per cent (544.4 billion litres) full, compared with 34.2 per
cent (607.2 billion litres) at the same time last year and about 40 per cent in
2007.
Residential water consumption last week increased 11 litres to 150 litres per person
per day.
Yarra Valley Water managing director Tony Kelly said water use currently should be
130 to 140 litres per person per day to ensure enough water was saved ahead of an
expected long, hot summer.
"We all need to understand how we use water indoors and out and make sure we keep it
down, even on warm days," he said.
Mr Kelly said over watering was still a problem and most people did not realise how
much water was used by garden hoses.
"Do the finger test. Stick your finger in the soil around the root zone to see how
dry it is and if the plant really needs it, water," he said.
Stage 3a restrictions are currently in place.
For more information go to www.target155.vic.gov.au