What if we could make it rain...

21 August 2003

Murrumbidgee Irrigation Chairman, Dick Thompson, gives his support to Snowy Hydro's proposal to cloud seed some of their catchment area.

"Cloud seeding experiments have been conducted in areas around Australia with solid results for some 40 years. Yet, cloud seeding remains one of the best kept secrets in Australia today," said Dick Thompson. "In the midst of the worst drought regional Australia has faced in 100 years it makes sense to explore the possibility of harvesting the vast reserve of atmospheric water available in the clouds. It is such a practical option."

"Hydro Tasmania began a cloud seeding program in 1964, and have reportedly harvested between 75,000 and 750,000 ML over the past 21 years. Approximately 75% of the rainfall runs off the catchment into rivers and storages. This equates to increased in stored water of up to 560,000 ML.

If these results can be produced in the Murray-darling Basin the entire community will benefit. Our river systems will enjoy increased slows, an increase in snow fall to the mountain region will boost the recreational snow industry as well as countering the negative impact of increased forestry activities which may result in reduced run off.

Cloud seeding is an expensive venture. Governments have historically shied away from these projects due to the difficulty in directly apportioning cost benefits. Snowy Hydro has made clear their intention to fully fund the project themselves. They are not seeking any form of government funding or subsidy.

"I support the venture entirely. The benefits of increased rainfall will flow throughout the communities and industries of the entire Basin", concluded Mr Thompson.

ends