Rous County, New South Wales, Australia – Future Water Project 2060 exploring options for the future
Rous’s role is to deliver high-quality drinking water for the Northern Rivers (New South Wales, Australia) that supports the region’s health and prosperity. We are securing a sustainable and resilient water supply that will meet the community’s needs to 2060 and beyond through water saving initiatives and an expanded range of water supply sources.
The Future Water Project 2060 sets out a three-stage approach to secure our regional water supply to 2060 and beyond. It includes more water saving initiatives and an expanded suite of water supply sources.
The first two stages are considering additional groundwater schemes, that would add to our existing water sources. The most important water sources in Rous’ system are Rocky Creek Dam, Emigrant Creek Dam, and the Wilson’s River Source.
Purified recycled water is being considered as a potential stage 3 (2030-2060) water source alongside other potential options including groundwater, desalination, and surface water.
A multi-year investigation is underway to assess the feasibility of both indirect and direct potable reuse schemes. This will increase our understanding of purified recycled water, and the viability of a pilot scheme.
Key Points:
Rous is exploring purified recycled water to supply high-quality drinking water to meet our community’s needs in the future.
It could form part of a diverse future water supply that is resilient to a changing climate and a growing population.
Investigating purified recycled water now means that if needed, we can be ready to progress it as a future water source if alternative options do not eventuate.
Related resources:
Link to Main Future Water Project Page: