The ACT Government has launched a 3-month community consultation process on a proposal to supplement Canberra's drinking water supply by adding purified water to an enlarged Cotter Dam.
As the long-term effects of the drought continue to bite, and as the risk of chronic water shortages into the future become more real, the need to secure our water supply has become more urgent.
It is because of this that ACTEW has begun a detailed analysis of the possibility of incorporating purified water into the drinking supply, along with the feasibility of greatly increasing the capacity of the Cotter Dam.
Cities such as Singapore and Los Angeles have relied for many years on existing technologies to deliver purified water to enhance their water security, and the Government's priority will always be to guarantee access to a safe, secure and sustainable water supply.
An independent Expert Panel to be chaired by Emeritus Professor Ian Falconer AO, a leader in the field of research into water purification, has also been established to help advise the Government on the proposal. Professor Falconer lives in Cook and is also the Vice President of the Conservation Council of South East NSW and the ACT.
"It is vital that all Canberrans familiarise themselves with the facts and fully engage in the consultation process . I encourage people to become involved", Mary Porter said.
More information is available by calling 6248 3563 or visiting www.actew.com/water2water
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