Bega Valley Shire Council is partnering with the NSW Government to carry out a comprehensive leak detection project across the shire’s water network from Monday 9 February.
Funded by the NSW Government, the project will survey more than 541km of water mains, including 346km of town water pipes and 195km of trunk and transfer mains, making it the most extensive investigation ever undertaken on Council’s water system.
Specialist water analysts, Aqua Analytics, will use advanced acoustic technology, to locate hidden leaks that are often impossible to detect from the surface.
“This allows Council to identify problem areas early, prioritise repairs and reduce the amount of treated drinking water lost through the network,” Water and Sewer Services Manager, Steve Marshall said.
“Every drop of water that leaks out of a pipe is water that has already been captured, treated and pumped at a cost to the community.
“This program helps us protect that investment, reduce waste and make sure our water system is working as efficiently as possible for residents and businesses.”
NSW DCCEEW Manager of Water Efficiency Programs, Jethro Laidlaw said it’s amazing how much town water is lost each year across the state because cracks or holes in the pipelines.
“Having the technology and expertise to help councils find and repair these leaks is a simple but effective tool in the fight to tackle water loss.”
The program will run over several months and will take place in most towns across the shire.
Aqua Analytics staff may be seen working near water infrastructure, including valves and meters, but residents should not notice any disruption to their water supply.
The project forms part of the NSW Government’s water efficiency and leakage