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Critical water applications still open

17 November 2008

River Murray irrigators are being reminded to apply for critical water allocations before 16 January 2009.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries Rory McEwen says the State Government is underwriting critical water allocations to ensure the survival of permanent citrus, vines and other plantings along the River Murray.

The $67 million scheme aims to assist those irrigators currently suffering from the impacts of the drought.

"Irrigators who can demonstrate the viability of their business, and are not opting to take up the Commonwealth Government's Exit Grant, can apply for critical water by contacting the Riverland Response Centre," Minister McEwen says.

"The State Government is committed to helping irrigators survive the current drought conditions, which is why it is so important that eligible irrigators get their applications in by the January cut-off date.

"Irrigation allocations are currently at 15%, which is insufficient to keep perennial plantings alive."

Minister for the River Murray Karlene Maywald says application assessments will not take into account carry-over water or temporary 'top-up' allocations traded in during the current irrigation year.

"These volumes are considered to be part of an irrigator's purchases for the purpose of crop production and are separate to this critical water needs application process," Minister Maywald says.

Minister Maywald urged irrigators not to self-assess, instead encouraging them to contact staff at the Riverland Response Centre who will walk them through the application process.

Further information: The Riverland Response Centre, 7 Wilson Street, Berri.  Ph: 1800 857 327