Close of Irrigation Season

22 May 2002

Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive of Murrumbidgee Irrigation announced today that the 2001/2002 Irrigation Season would commence closing on 31 May for essential maintenance and construction activities.

"This year's closure will be staged similar to last year to support the horticulture industry in its endeavours to combat damaging frosts. Instead of closing across the whole area, channels supplying horticulture will be available until Friday 14 June with final orders needing to be placed by Monday 10 June."

"All other locations will be closed within the first week of June and this would require final water orders to be placed by Monday 27 May. Some local variations to channel access, closing and opening times will be negotiated with landholders to satisfy crop demands and to maximise work opportunities," Mr Hipkins added.

"Murrumbidgee Irrigation has planned an extensive works program", Mr Hipkins said, "and we wish to achieve the best possible outcomes so that all customers benefit from an upgraded supply and drainage system."

Mr Hipkins advised landholders to seriously consider their soil moisture requirements so those needy crops do not suffer during the irrigation system closedown, which will be for a minimum 8 weeks. "As the start of the 2002/2003 irrigation season is planned for mid August, home and garden users who access water directly from the channel system should also be mindful of the closedown period," Mr Hipkins said.

The above dates may be varied should significant (25-50 mm) rainfall occur between now and the proposed termination dates.

Landholders can seek further information by liaising directly with their Division Operator or contacting irrigation services staff at Griffith 6962 0224 or at Leeton on 6953 0154.

ends

For further information contact: Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive, Murrumbidgee Irrigation, phone: 6953 0100