RIVERINA residents could be forced to turn off their taps after the NSW Government recommended some regional councils adopt Level Four water restrictions.

The Department of Water and Energy also announced the commencement of water allocations for groundwater sources, to manage lower Murrumbidgee shallow and deep groundwater.

Wagga is currently on Level One restrictions but the Department yesterday 'requ-ested' all Murray and Murrum-bidgee valley councils adopt the harsh restrictions immediately.

While Sydney water has recently relaxed its restrictions, regional users would be prohibited from watering outside with water from both town and private pumps.

Riverina Water County Council declined to comment on the recommendation until it has had an official meeting to discuss its position on the matter.

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