Water allocation increase confirmed

11 August 2004

The increase in general security pre end of February allocation previously discussed by Dick Thompson, Murrumbidgee Irrigation Chairman, has come to fruition. “Effectively, the allocation within Murrumbidgee Irrigation, combined with carry-forward, will see a minimum of 15% allocation available pre end of February, less any water previously taken in advance.

“This increase will help ensure successful completion of winter wheat crops, as well as assisting horticultural crops, especially new grape plantings being grown with general security water”, stated Mr Thompson.

“Thanks are due to Minister Craig Knowles and his Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources staff, especially Kim Alvarez, and the Snowy Hydro team led by Terry Charlton”, added Mr Thompson, who has championed the negotiations on behalf of irrigators in the Murrumbidgee Valley.

Mr Thompson added that, while this is very positive short-term news, significant catchment rainfall is required to ensure a viable summer cropping program for this season.

Revised water balances will be sent to Murrumbidgee Irrigation shareholders within the week.