Water conservation plans are one of the new water efficiency measures announced on 23 July 2007 by the Minister for Water Resources.
The efficiency measures became applicable on 1 October 2007. Local government authorities in the Perth metropolitan area have to complete water conservation plans by 1 July 2008. Country authorities have until 1 July 2009.
The conservation plans will help local governments conserve groundwater and improve water use efficiency so that public open space can be managed under the drier and warmer conditions we are experiencing with climate change.
The aim is to maintain the usefulness and attractions of public open space, while being more efficient in groundwater use.
The Department of Water, together with the Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA), is providing advice and assistance to help local governments meet the requirements and the timeframes.
The Hydro Zone is a Department of Water newsletter, supported by the Department of Sport and Recreation. It will inform local government authorities on developments with water conservation plans.