Media reports that Parkes is forecast to run out of water in March next year has been disputed by Mayor Ken Keith.
“Parkes is not at immediate risk of running dry contrary to recent media reports,” the Mayor said. “It is deeply disappointing that these figures have been quoted.”
He said while there was no doubt that the current drought situation was dire, our community could rest assured that Parkes would have water through 2020 and beyond. “We are very much able to service our residents, businesses, and visitors to the region.
“On the back of the misleading reports we have had some visitors questioning their travel plans as they do not want to be further a drain on our water supply. I would like to reassure everyone that Parkes is not at imminent risk of running dry. We encourage visitors to come and support our local businesses and enjoy everything Parkes has to offer, including the 2020 Parkes Elvis Festival,” Ken said.
Parkes Shire Council’s General Manager Kent Boyd said Council upgraded the raw water infrastructure in 2016-18 as part of Council’s $100m multi award-winning Integrated Water Infrastructure Program.
Council constructed new, more efficient water and wastewater treatment plants, upgraded the raw water supply infrastructure, constructed a new river pump station and refurbished Council’s bores. “There are now eight bores that collectively allow an increasing extraction capacity while spreading the drawdown of water over a larger area to minimise impact on the aquifer,” Kent said.