PAEROA WATER SUPPLY.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXIX, Issue 5240, 17 February 1928, Page 2

PAEROA WATER SUPPLY.

DANCER OF A SHORTAGE.

RESTRICTIONS NECESSARY.

With the continuation of the present spell of dry weather the Paeroa water supply is, causing the officials some concern. Although there is yet -no need to cause a panic, the shortage of. water is becoming more apparent at the headworks. It is now taking nearly twice as long for the main reservoir to fill as it. did a few weeks ago, and it is only with the greatest economy and care that the reservoir can fill during the hours of darkness. Tarariki Creek, which runs into the reservoir is greatly decreasing in volume, but there is; little likelihood of it ceasing to flow altogether. The atfxiliary dam, which is fed from a spring on the hillside, is still functioning satisfactorily, and provides; an adequate water suppy at night-time, while the main reservoir is filling.

In addition, to the actual shortage of water that would occur should the main reservoir not be kept at a reasonable level, a serious aspect arises, in that there is every chance of the reservoir cracking and the clay bank supports shrinking, which would cause’the reservoir to leak. Apart from the necessity of having water for consumptioii it has to be remembered that many hundreds of gallons are used daily , in connection with the borough’s sewerage system, and any shortage of water would immediately affect the flushing systems and the result can be better imagined than described.

About 98 per cent, of consumers realise the need for exercising economy and have responded readily to the appeal, made by the borough and county officials, but there are still a few persons who have apparently disregarded the warning and are doing little if anything to conserve the supply. It is essential that the greatest economy should be maintained while the dry weather, lasts, otherwise the residents will find in serious difficulties. -