Water storage change

By Steph McNicol

LANCEFIELD and Romsey residents will have their water supply supplemented by an alternative source due to a decline in storage levels.

The dry summer months have resulted in the Lancefield Basin dropping to about 34 per cent capacity and the Wright Reservoir sitting at 61 per cent.

Both water sources will be substituted by the Kerrie Reservoir and Rosslynne Reservoir respectively.

Western Water has advised customers they may notice a slightly different taste to their drinking water due to the change in reservoirs.

Unlike the previous water sources, water from Rosslynne Reservoir is fluoridated, in line with Department of Health and Human Services requirements.

Water fluoridation is the controlled adjustment of fluoride to a public water supply to reduce tooth decay – most water supplies have naturally occurring fluoride, however levels can be increased.

Western Water acting general manager Paul Clark said the different taste was normal and it abided by the Department of Health and Human Services requirements.

“All the drinking water we supply is safe, healthy to drink and meets the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines,” he said.

“The change in taste experienced by some customers is normal, as water from different sources can vary.”

A Western Water spokesperson said water supply changes occurred about twice a year and were part of the authority’s plan to ensure the security of supply to customers.

“When local supplies are low, or reservoirs are at decreased capacity, supply changes ensure customers have access to water that is safe, healthy to drink and meets the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines,” they said.

“Western Water always notifies customers in advance of any supply changes. If customers have any questions about water fluoridation they can call the department’s Water Unit.”

For more information, call the Water Unit on 1300 761 874 or Western Water on 1300 650 422.