Have you noticed a patch of green amongst a dry lawn?

Are there puddles near your house, but there hasn’t been any rain?

You may have discovered a water leak - and the sooner you get onto it, the better for you, your family and the environment.

Water is a precious resource and in the dry Western Plains, we can't afford to waste a single drop.

Warrumbungle Shire Council is well aware of this and recently asked locals to report any water leaks or issues and concentrate on water conservation.

Mayor, Ambrose Doolan said the community's help was vital if the forecast for continuing dry weather was correct.

“Council’s water network spans over 170km with over 3,300 water connections Shire wide and a large scheduled program of water main replacement works every year to ensure our communities have potable water,” Mayor Doolan said. “With the weather forecast remaining dry we need the community’s help to ensure our water is being conserved and any issues that may arise are reported.”

With many of the Shire's council water pipes located within the road system, heavy traffic can take its toll. Over time, small cracks can appear and when soil is wet, the resulting expansion and contraction can badly impact the pipes.

There are plenty of signs to watch for if you suspect a water leak including low water pressure in your house and soggy ground that doesn't dry up.

“Some of these signs may be caused by other things like planned maintenance, natural springs or a leak on a property owner’s side of the water meter. Council is responsible for the pipes up to and including the water meter,” Cr Doolan explained.

Graph: Coonabarabran's Timor Dam volume depletion rate between 2018 and now.

Current water restrictions in the shire include level one restrictions for Binnaway, Mendooran, Baradine and Merrygoen. Level two water restrictions came into effect in Coonabarabran on 22nd March this year

If you believe you have an issue after the water meter call a licenced plumber to assist you. If there is an issue before the water meter, contact Council on (02) 6849 2000. Calls regarding water are urgent matters, someone will answer your call 24/7 and Council staff will come and investigate the issue.