Murrumbidgee Irrigation and Landcare - Working Together

19 June 2002

Representatives from Murrumbidgee Irrigation and the Lower Murrumbidgee Catchment Landcare Network met on Monday to sign an agreement detailing their partnership for the next five years.

"Today's agreement is a commitment to the future of agriculture and our local communities" stated Lilian Parker, Environmental Services Manager of Murrumbidgee Irrigation, "MIA EnviroWise provides an opportunity to really make a difference, but it won't work without the support of organisations such as Landcare."

MIA EnviroWise is a community developed land and water management plan designed to ensure the sustainability and profitability of irrigation in the MIA. The implementing body, Murrumbidgee Irrigation, manages project funding and provides technical support to project groups.

The partnership agreement simply describes the responsibilities of both parties. Landcare has agreed to coordinate and implement priority projects while Murrumbidgee Irrigation will support the projects with technical assistance and resources.

"MIA EnviroWise targets three key areas. Incentives are available for on-farm initiatives that improve water use efficiency and incorporate 'best practice irrigation techniques. Regional programs focusing on better drainage management and the forecasting of water demands. Thirdly, biodiversity programs include wetland management and the monitoring of remnant vegetation." continued Ms Parker. "The Mirrool Creek Restoration Project is an example of the work we will be undertaking as part of the partnership agreed to today."

The associations supporting the partnership include Benerembah/Warrawidgee, Murrami, Myall Park, Willbriggie and Wah Wah Landcare groups as well as Griffith Built and Natural Environment and the Griffith Association of Greening Australia.

"Landcare is a great organisation committed to environmental protection. We have the same goals - everyone working in irrigation understands the need to protect our environment to ensure the sustainability of agribusiness. Working together will ensure the future of our community and our rural lifestyle."

For more information regarding MIA EnviroWise programs or incentives, contact Rob Kelly, Murrumbidgee Irrigation on 02 69 62 0200.

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