The annual Winter Sprinkler Switch-Off for all areas of Perth began on June 1 for both scheme and bore water users.
The initiative was first introduced in 2010 to increase water security by saving approximately five billion litres of water per year.
Water Corporation demand delivery manager Damien Postma said the winter switch-off was important to prepare for the increased water usage in summer.
“It’s no secret WA is heavily reliant on desalination to meet our water needs; however, this alone is not a silver bullet,” he said.
“It’s important we don’t get complacent when it comes to being waterwise because using water efficiently is a fundamental to collective water security – especially given recent climate trends.
“This means we need to make the most of what little rainfall we do receive. In Perth and southern WA, that comes during winter when lawns are dormant, and gardens require less water.”
This year’s switch-off was announced alongside the Nursery and Garden Industry of WA (NGIWA).
NGIWA executive officer Lisa Passmore said winter provided a time for people to prepare lawns and gardens before summer arrives.
“As well as increased rain, the cooler weather means lawns and some plants go dormant and don’t need as much water. In fact, we risk overwatering if retic systems are left on,” she said.
“I think everyone understands water is a precious resource in WA, so we need to be smart about how we use it – especially in the garden.
“That means using native, waterwise plants, a good quality wetting agent and making sure gardens are well mulched. Winter is the perfect time to do this as it will help retain soil moisture for as long as possible once the weather warms up.”
Penalties apply for people caught using sprinkler systems during the switch-off period, but hand watering is allowed.
