Dry conditions have kept capacity at Falls Dam low, with just four per cent as of Monday.

Rainfall over the past week saw capacity increase slightly, but it was now back to the minimum level, Falls Dam operations manager Roger Williams said.

“The increase was very slight.”

As a result, the Central Otago District Council has kept Omakau, Ophir, Naseby and Ranfurly on water restrictions to help ease the pressure.

Farmers are also only able to take 25 per cent of their full allocation.

Roger said that was particularly hard for people who rely on irrigation across the agricultural, horticulture and viticulture sectors.

Ophir is among the towns that are on a water restriction. PHOTO: The Central App

The situation was the worst Roger had seen it in his 35-year career, but it would be worse if it wasn’t for the Manuherekia River, he said.

Minimum flows in the river are being maintained, he said.

The Falls Dam company is monitoring the levels every day in the hope it doesn’t have to add any further restrictions, which could include stock restriction only.

Roger said the forecast for the coming week showed no sign of a reprieve - possibly a shower or two, but nothing significant.

Tips for conserving water during dry conditions:

• Check for leaks around stockwater and irrigation infrastructure
• Irrigate at times when the water is more likely to be absorbed
• Apply irrigation so that it is retained in the pasture or crop root zone
• If you are unsure if your irrigator is applying the right amount of water, catchment advisors can help you carry out a bucket test. Email [email protected] for more information
• Minimise water use on gardens and lawns
• Don’t leave water running unnecessarily
• Avoid washing vehicles and boats

For more information on low flows in Otago’s monitoring sites, visit the ORC's environmental data portal page.

Read more: Falls Dam close to emergency water only