13 December 2006

TOUGH TIMES CALL FOR FAIR MEASURES

Murrumbidgee Irrigation recently outlined a package of measures designed to help manage the current water shortage in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area. These included limited crop protection packages for high security users, increased vigilance on water control and theft and internal measures to reduce costs.

Over the last couple of weeks a series of operational initiatives to tighten up water control have been implemented. Operations Manager Russell Webb said "Murrumbidgee Irrigation is seeking to improve system efficiency and ensure fair distribution of the water that is available. We wish to encourage customers to assist us in our endeavours and ensure a fair go for all water users in our company".

Initiatives include running the channels at levels not exceeding full supply and the installation of a number of temporary drainage recapture points. Where there is no demand and following consultation with affected customers, it is possible that some parts of the channel system will be closed down for the remainder of the season. Other measures include ongoing auditing and calibration of dethridge outlets and mechanical meters, reintroduction of rostering for hobby blocks and stock and domestic supplies, mandatory advance ordering of water and no trade permitted for customers who take less than 3 ML per day.

Night patrols that commenced a couple of weeks ago to assess water theft also continue. A number of default notices have already been issued to customers as a result of non-compliance.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation has instigated a suite of compliance requirements and penalties will result for any breaches by customers. "Water theft and non-compliance will not be tolerated by Murrumbidgee Irrigation. Taking matters into your own hands by helping yourself to water you are not entitled to, is simply stealing and will be dealt with accordingly" said Mr Webb.

Penalties include up to a five to one payback of water taken and legal action if warranted. A full list of offences and subsequent penalties is available from Murrumbidgee Irrigation's reception or website www.mirrigation.com.au.

"This region depends on water and agriculture for its livelihood and therefore it is imperative in these dry times that we work together as a community and be respectful of each other and of our water resource" concluded Mr Webb.