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Concern over dam levels

Residents have been asked to use water sparingly as ‘‘Mother Nature seems to have forgotten us again’’, according to Water Corporation regional business manager Scott Moorhead.

Latest Water Corporation figures show dam levels across the region are 40 per cent full on average — five per cent lower than the same time last year.

The Logue Brook and Waroona dams are particularly concerning, sitting at just 21 and 16 per cent capacity respectively.

Mr Moorhead said little rain meant levels had not risen since the start of winter.

‘‘We now need some solid rainfall throughout the rest of winter and into early spring,’’ he said.

‘‘Many of the dams in the region have still not recovered from the record-breaking dry winter of 2010.’’

Greater Bunbury dams are higher than this time last year, with the Harvey Dam sitting at 40 per cent full, 15 per cent more than last August.

Wellington Dam, near Collie, is almost 60 per cent full, 20 per cent more than last year.

The water supply dams Harris and Stirling are both sitting just higher than last year, at about 40 per cent.

Mr Moorhead said the two-day sprinkler ban was set for spring and summer but may be reviewed depending on dam levels.

‘‘We will monitor the supply situation closely in the coming weeks and we may need to review the need for restrictions over and above the existing water efficiency measures for some areas,’’ he said.

‘‘South West customers are very aware of the rainfall situation we have been experiencing in recent years and are typically very responsible.

‘‘We are appreciative of that, and just ask that this effort is maintained and even stepped up where possible.’’