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Murray–Murrumbidgee

FAQs - Restrictions on basic landholder rights on surface water and aquifers in the Murray valley

Currently a temporary water restriction order applies to Basic landholder rights for the aquifers underlying the township of Howlong and Albury and on basic landholder rights for the
Nsw Murray regulated river water source that is for all towns supplied under that plan: Albury to South Australian border.

The Department has developed some FAQ’s to help you understand what this means to your use of water with in your town

1. Why has the Department of Natural Resources placed restrictions on towns where level one water restrictions are already in place?

The department administers some water restrictions, and local government administer others.
Most towns in NSW have some water restriction in place, but these only restrict the town’s supply of water, and not all water actually used in the township (for example, bore water or river pumping.)

The Department has issued a water restriction order on relevant surface water and groundwater sources so that water restrictions imposed within a town water supply area are consistent. This means that everybody is now operating under comparable water restriction rules – a much fairer way of managing our water resource.

When each town and DNR assesses their particular water situation along with the capacity of the river or the aquifer to support the current usage, restrictions can be increased or lifted as needed.

2.- Does this mean that I can’t water my garden?

You can still water your garden, but it must be in accordance with local council water restrictions. For example, if your Council water restrictions are level 1, then your use of water from your basic landholder right is subject to those same rules.

3. Does this affect stock watering?

In most cases you can still water stock.

Check with your local DNR licensing officer to see what type of licence or conditions you have, if you are unsure.

4. Does this affect the watering sports ovals and public parks?

Check with your DNR local licensing officer to see what type of licence you have and whether this will impact on watering of public spaces.

5. I have spent a lot of money to put in my bore, does this mean I can’t use it?

You can still use the bore or pump, but you are restricted to the town water supply restrictions.

6. What right does the Department have to do this?

The Department can place restrictions on basic landholder rights for surface and groundwater sources under section 323 of the Water Management Act 2000.

These orders are announced during times of water shortage, to ensure water is fairly and sustainably shared.

7. Why is this restriction in place when the amount taken for purposes in town is so little?

We are currently in the grip of the worst drought on record, and every drop counts. It is sound and appropriate practice for DNR to take the lead in securing this resource and to develop contingencies to secure town water supplies for the next year, if the situation does not improve.
If the drought continues, then the earlier any water conservation measures are taken, the more choices we have in how to manage what water remains.

8. What happens if I don’t comply?

Department of Natural Resources compliance staff will work with local council staff and the public to educate the community about any new water restrictions. If necessary, the department can take enforcement action against people who do not comply with an order, although this would be a last resort and we are urging people to do the right thing.

It is in all of the community’s interest to comply with the water restrictions during this time of extended drought. We strongly encourage everyone to voluntarily comply with these restrictions.

For more specific information , Contact Scott Lawson in Leeton on 02 69530 700