LANGEBERG PREPARING FOR CHANGING WEATHER CONDITIONS AND RESIDENTS ENCOURAGED TO USE WATER WISELY AS EL NIÑO RISK INCREASES

Preparing for hotter, drier conditions and protecting Langeberg's water resources.

Weather and water outlook
While we can't predict the exact amount of rainfall we will receive, changing climate patterns will continue to challenge those who rely on consistent water supply. In recent years, Langeberg has seen shifts in rainfall patterns including less rainfall and more dry spells, and, at times, heavy storms, and flooding. This highlights the importance of planning ahead and using our water resources wisely. A dry season doesn't mean our area will be free from these severe weather occurrences as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, and sudden flooding can still occur. Remember, a big storm may bring a heavy downpour for a short period, but that doesn't guarantee that our overall water situation will improve or that we will meet our seasonal rainfall goals.

Why water security matters
Langeberg Municipality primarily relies on surface water resources. These sources directly depend on rainfall and runoff from nearby areas. As temperatures rise, evaporation increases, and the demand for water from homes, businesses, and farms grows, placing extra pressure on our available resources. Currently, municipal water storage levels in most areas are looking good, but long-term water safety depends on careful management practices. Water is a key infrastructure and responsible water use by everyone. It's essential for the community to work together and be conscious of your water usage, especially as our population and economy continue to grow.

Investing in water security
Langeberg Municipality is dedicated to improving local water supplies by actively investing in water infrastructure. Recently, several key upgrades have been completed, enhancing the ability to collect, pump, and transfer water more efficiently. Notable improvements have been made to the water supply systems in Robertson and Ashton, including upgrades to pumping stations and transfer systems. Additionally, upgrades to water treatment facilities are currently under development, while the municipality is further investing in new water storage capacity, including reservoirs in Bonnievale and Robertson. Ageing water pipes and bulk water meters are being replaced as part of efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of the water network. Further projects are being planned throughout the municipality to support future growth and bolster long term water resilience.

The Bonnievale Water-Wise Partnership
Langeberg Municipality is also exploring innovative solutions to protect and strengthen the area's water resources. An example of a recent water-wise solution is the partnership between Langeberg Municipality and the Bonnievale Golf Course, that is now using treated, compliant water from the Bonnievale Wastewater Treatment Plant to irrigate the golf course. Previously, this water was released into the Breede River, while the golf course used water from the Breede River canal. This change puts treated wastewater to beneficial use and makes sure the Breede River canal water is available to the Bonnievale Water Treatment Works, reducing the pressure on freshwater resources to support the growing demand and future water security.

Drinking-water quality
Residents can be confident that the municipal drinking water meets national water quality standards. Regular monitoring and accredited laboratory testing ensure that the water supplied to our communities remains safe and suitable for consumption.

Practical community action
While the Municipality focuses on infrastructure improvements and closely monitors water resources, residents can also help protect our water supplies. Simple daily actions can collectively make a big difference in reducing demand and preserving our precious water resources, especially during challenging times.

Seasonal call to action

• As summer approaches, let's all stay informed through official channels and pay attention to weather forecasts and water updates. 
• By working together and using water wisely, the Langeberg community can tackle the challenges of climate change while preserving this precious resource.
• By planning ahead, using water wisely, reducing unnecessary consumption and making the most of every available drop, we can help protect Langeberg's water resources for today and for future generations.

Easy Water-Saving Tips for Everyone

1. Fix leaks and avoid unnecessary water use: Repair leaking taps, toilets, pipes, and irrigation systems promptly. Turn off taps while brushing teeth, shaving or soaping up, and avoid letting water run unnecessarily.
2. Use water-efficiently at home: Take shorter showers by turning off the tap while soaping up and only run washing machines and dishwashers with full loads. Wash dishes in a basin rather than under a running tap.
3. Reuse and collect water: Where safe and appropriate, reuse greywater from baths, showers, and laundry for flushing toilets, washing cars, cleaning floors, or watering gardens. Consider harvesting rainwater by directing rainwater to storage tanks, swimming pools, or suitable garden areas.
4. Make your garden water-wise: Consider water-saving alternatives by creating focal points with sand, rocks, peach pips, and drought tolerant plants, while reducing lawn areas. Reuse greywater in the garden where appropriate and safe. Water during the cooler parts of the day to reduce evaporation and use mulch to retain soil moisture. Regularly check irrigation systems for leaks, broken components, and inefficient watering patterns, or consider watering by hand to ensure water is directed only where it is needed.

Use water wisely. Make every drop count.