Murrumbidgee Irrigation

Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) advises that a third rostered watering for eligible high security customers is now available in late May to early June.

“Due to the diligence of staff and the cooperation of customers, we are able to confirm a third watering in late May to early June. The overall efficiency of the delivery system has continued to improve this season and we are operating at efficiency levels never before achieved in the MIA,” announced Managing Director, Brett Tucker.

MI is aware that this announcement may result in eligible customers wanting to change their orders for the 2nd watering commencing this Fri 27th April. In this instance, due to the short notice of the May watering, MI is willing to work with customers to modify orders. MI customers are advised that if they wish to modify their orders, they must make contact with MI Irrigation Services staff by 5pm this Friday 27th April. Letters have been sent to eligible customers as well as notice through MI's fax / email / SMS network.

Details of the watering and ordering dates for this third event will be announced in early May. From May 3 through to commencement of the third watering, MI will endeavour to make water available to customers with drip and spray irrigation systems. These customers will still be required to place orders in advance of taking water.

Whilst this advice is concerned with the current season, the upcoming 07/08 season is also of critical concern to MI and its customers. As it is too early for the NSW Government to be in a position to understand what next season will look like, the evidence to-date indicates a difficult and potentially critical situation for farmers in the MIA.

“The Prime Minister's announcement last week confirms the advice that those involved in water management in the Murrumbidgee Valley have been receiving and conveying to our customers for some time about being cautious in their planning,” said Mr Tucker.

“The position remains that unless there is substantial rainfall into the dams, there is significant risk to water supplies for the 07/08 season. We are continuing to work closely with the NSW Government to explore all options and will keep all customers info rmed as the situation and season progresses.”

Mr Tucker also advised of MI's intention to convene a regional summit on the water crisis to work through local issues for the next season.