Irrigator's Toolkit

River Murray irrigators have access to a free electronic ‘Toolkit’ to help manage their water allocation and businesses through the drought.

The toolkit includes an extensive collection of local information and tools from interstate and overseas to assist irrigators utilise their water resources more effectively.

Minister for the River Murray, Karlene Maywald launched the Irrigator Toolkit at the 2007 Riverland Field Days.

“With crop water requirements increasing rapidly, irrigators must make critical decisions on managing their water,” Minister Maywald said.

“Getting the best information to assist them make the right decision is crucial.

“This resource will greatly assist them to maximise their ability to nurse plants through the drought and plan ahead.

 “There is so much information out there for irrigators, but this kit will provide irrigators with a single product that they can access and download without having to leave home or contact numerous agencies.

“Our irrigators will be getting the best advice from across Australia and the world, including expert water management strategies from South Africa and tools for managing salinity.”

Resources available in the Toolkit include:

· Irrigated crop information for each crop
· Water budgeting and trading tools
· Salinity management
· Links to the latest drought information
· Business decision making tools
· Technical information and support on government assistance and support.

The Toolkit will continue to be updated on the PIRSA website as new information is provided. A copy of the CD is available by contacting the Loxton Research Centre on 8595 9100.

Free copies of the CD will also be available from the PIRSA Drought Response stand at the Riverland Field Days, and a wide range of centres servicing growers.