- Innovative solution to sniff out leaks in remote areas where traditional methods fall short
- Early leak detection is critical to preventing bursts and reducing repair costs
- Minimising water loss important to preserve water in face of a drying climate
A six-month-old Cocker Spaniel with an acute sense of smell is the latest recruit in a Cook Government supported-program that is helping prevent water loss and costly repairs across Western Australia.
Piper recently joined Water Corporation's Canine Leak Detection Program and is already showing promise as she begins her foundational training to sniff out underground leaks in remote areas.
The program uses specially trained dogs to detect leaks in places where traditional methods are less effective. It is a smart, cost-effective solution that helps reduce water loss and prevent minor leaks from escalating into major bursts.
Piper's training includes socialisation, basic obedience, and early scent association, with advanced detection skills to follow in the coming months.
Once fully trained, she will help monitor WA's vast network of 35,000 kilometres of water mains across 2.6 million square kilometres [ the largest service area of any water utility in the world.
She follows in the pawprints of Kep, Water Corporation's - and Australia's - first leak detection dog, who since 2018 has identified more than 240 leaks and saved over 2.5 billion litres of water or 2.5 Optus Stadiums.
Now eight years old, Kep will gradually transition into retirement, continuing ambassadorial duties while mentoring her eager apprentice.
Leak detection plays a vital role in maintaining the State's water security. Left undetected, hidden leaks can waste significant volumes of water and lead to expensive repairs.
With some pipelines stretching hundreds of kilometres through remote terrain, programs like this offer another solution where conventional technologies cannot easily be deployed.
As Western Australia faces the challenges of a drying climate, every drop counts. By detecting leaks early, Water Corporation reduces repair costs and preserves supplies for communities across the State.
While initiatives like the Canine Leak Detection Program are critical, the community also has an important role to play. Simple actions - such as checking water meters, fixing dripping taps, and using water wisely - help protect this essential resource.
As stated by Water Minister Don Punch:
"Water Corporation's Canine Leak Detection Program is a smart and innovative way to sniff out leaks in regional and remote areas where traditional methods fall short.
"Piper might be small, but she's got a big job ahead. Once fully trained, she'll be helping protect one of our most precious resources - water - one paw at a time.
"Early leak detection is critical given the vast size of Western Australia's water network. It prevents bursts and saves billions of litres of water which helps to secure our water future.
"Kep has been a true trailblazer - finding more than 240 leaks and saving over 2.5 billion litres of water - or 2.5 Optus Stadiums - since 2018. As she steps into retirement, Piper will carry on this vital work."
