Strong winter rainfall fails to deter summer drying fears of Augusta-Margaret River region

The Bureau of Meteorology has confirmed strong rainfall so far this winter but concerns remain for local waterways amid a perceived climate emergency.

Community groups as well as Nature Conservation Margaret River Region have voiced disquiet at the past summer’s dry spell that devastated coastal heath and further reduced stream flows in the Margaret River.

The Times understands volunteer firefighting brigades are on notice to secure emergency water supplies now, before peak bushfire season starts.

Although rainfall in the Capes outperformed all other areas of WA, conservationists have urged against complacency.

A Nature Conservation spokesperson said the long-term trend was “clearly towards a drying climate”.

“Our message to the community is to be waterwise by doing a water audit, minimising use, knowing where your water comes from and only pumping from waterways when they’re flowing.

“People can also protect native vegetation by fencing access to waterways on their properties, revegetating creeks and rivers, sticking to paths in forests and reserves and controlling weeds.”

Rainfall in the six months to July 31 was 423.6mm at Witchcliffe, 395.8mm at Cape Leeuwin and 363.4mm at Cape Naturaliste.