Seven Day Water Forecasting

28 October 2002

Murrumbidgee Irrigation recently changed to 7 day water forecasting to improve the management of irrigation water.

"Accurate water ordering improves system efficiencies. That is the motivation behind moving to 7 day forecasting," said Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive of Murrumbidgee Irrigation. "It is particularly important during periods of drought to minimise any possible water losses."

Murrumbidgee Irrigation places water orders with State water on behalf of customers seven days in advance. The Company uses historical water use figures to forecast water requirements.

"This season is unusual," continued Mr Hipkins, "Existing data does not accurately reflect irrigators water needs. Asking irrigators to predict their water needs as we submit our water orders will significantly improve our ability to manage the supply system.

We will continue to be as flexible as possible providing our customers with water when they need it. The 7 day forecast is simply a way of improving the performance of the system while reducing the risk of loss."

ends

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