To supply this region with water, there is in storage at any time less than one year’s water supply. Sometimes, including much of 1991, there is much less than a year’s supply. although rainfall is plentiful and regular, the amount of water which can be supplied with the present works is about what is presently being used. So, unless we take some action soon we will need new supplies of water at considerable cost.
Also, as a Shire-wide average, about 75% of all water used is disposed of to the sewer after it is used. The volume of effluent is growing quickly and the standard to which it must be treated is rising. Soon we will need new treatment plants in nearly all towns of the Shire at substantial cost. So, if we can reduce water consumption, we stand to gain from reduced rates and charges and from reduced impact on the environment in Byron Shire.