Call For Calm in Water Debate

5 July 2002

Sustainable and viable irrigation remains a reality for those in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Areas claims Dick Thompson, Chairman of Murrumbidgee Irrigation. Water reform has been an ongoing issue for several years. The State Government's recent reforms are one part of the overall reform package.

"Water is a valuable resource directly linked to the livelihood of irrigation farmers and the communities supported by agribusiness. It is not surprising that water reforms spark alarm in rural regions, however, speculation has lead to misinformation surrounding the reform agenda" said Mr. Thompson. "Regulations guiding the management of the river system are complex. It is unfortunate that not all those advising the Minister have a complete understanding of how the system operates. The outcomes of the Murrumbidgee River Management Committee planning will be positive. If adopted they will bring the balanced reform required to manage the diverse demands placed on the River."

"The impact of the Committee's recommendations are acceptable" stated Mr. Thompson. "As a result of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) reform process there are some larger water users who have suffered greater reductions. These users are being supported from within the system using internal water savings from improved management practices.

The high impacts reported in other areas of the state are not reflected in the MIA.

Irrigators in the MIA are currently introducing some very sophisticated, high tech systems. Improved practices means more water is available, for everyone, and just as importantly, improved production and crop yields due to optimum growing conditions.

"It comes down to improving our management of water so we can do more with what we have" said Mr. Thompson. "Irrigation farmers are doing that, we have been for years. There are a number of initiatives in place to ensure that continuous improvement in irrigation happens. That's only one side of the debate. Improvements need to be made in managing environmental water to ensure that maximum benefit from current resources is realised. This needs to be done before additional water is taken from irrigation allocations."

Mr. Thompson said "Getting the right balance can be difficult, but it doesn't have to mean tearing the heart out of our local communities and major job losses. The Federal and State Governments' water reforms are an attempt to balance the demands placed on water. To achieve sustainable irrigation it is imperative that we continue to work together to reach agreement on water management issues."

The MIA was founded on a spirit of cooperation. It is important that we continue to listen to the facts surrounding water reform and work together to manage this most precious resource.

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