25 July 2007

AUGUST WATERING FOR CITRUS

Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) advises citrus growers that in the absence of good regional rainfall over the next week, a winter watering will be available commencing Wednesday 1st August for a maximum period of four days.

“With 07/08 allocations starting at zero, MI has been working closely with the Department of Water & Energy to secure survival water for high security permanent plantings. August is a critical time for citrus due to frost control, and we have been monitoring the situation closely with growers. The good news is that we are now able to provide an August watering for them,” confirmed MI's Operations Manager Russell Webb.

All eligible customers should be aware that any water provided under this rostered event forms part of their allocated survival amount for the season, notionally 3 to 4 ML per hectare for citrus.

Ordering opens from 8am Monday 30th July and will close 5pm Thursday 2nd August. Orders for Leeton are to be placed via the phone ordering system on 6953 0161 / 162 / 165. Griffith orders are to be placed with Irrigation Services in Yambil St during office hours. Phone enquiries for Griffith customers can be made on 6962 0224. Card boxes will not be cleared and ordering is only through the specified options as given.

Customers should review their requirements immediately and place orders within this timeframe. MI cannot guarantee delivery for late orders. Such orders will be placed at the back of the queue and subject to water availability at the time of supply. Customers are also advised that if they order water but do not take it, it will be debited to their account regardless, unless there is substantial local rainfall.

MI will advise customers on commencement of the 2007/08 irrigation season as soon as the Department of Water & Energy (DWE) make their next announcement which is expected around 1 st August. Customers are urged to ensure they are on MI's free email / fax / SMS contact service in order to receive important advice such as allocation announcements immediately. Contact either MI Customer Services or Reception to join this service.