PIRSA Water Intensive Development

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You are here: PIRSA Home �/� Water Intensive Development �/� Regions �/�Yorke & Mid North

Yorke and Mid North

Yorke and mid north region map The Yorke and Mid North region has a climate of mild winters and hot summers. Rain falls predominantly in the winter months, but conditions vary over the region with differences in latitude and altitude. The Clare Valley, central Yorke Peninsula and the Southern Flinders receive the most rain within the region, with Clare recording an average of 632 mm, Bundaleer 556 mm and Maitland 506 mm

The Yorke and Mid North region�s soil is a critical asset to agricultural productivity and natural biodiversity. The characteristics of soil are one of the key factors that determine where different crops may be grown and the natural distribution of native plant species. Additionally, the soil provides habitat for a range of flora and fauna: burrowing mammals, marsupials and reptiles, invertebrates and microbial organisms. Although very little is yet known, the greatest store of biodiversity resides in the soil.

Water is a critical asset for the people and natural biodiversity of the Yorke and Mid North region. Both surface and groundwater resources sustain the region�s economic production and the environment. The quality of the water in many areas is saline enough to limit its suitability for many economic uses and therefore limits the degree of extraction.

The region is renowned for its cereal crops, merino wool, viticulture, dairy and beef cattle, pigs, poultry and tourism. The Clare Valley continues to expand as one of Australia's premium wine growing areas, and as one of the region's principal income earners.

(Source- Northern and Yorke NRM Board)