RIVERLAND growers and irrigators can expect water allocation figures to “significantly improve” over the coming water year, according to a local MP.
The State Government earlier this month announced allocations for the 2020/21 water year would begin at 2 per cent for SA River Murray irrigators.
However, Member for Chaffey Tim Whetstone said previous years should provide reassurance that allocations can start low and still finish at 100 per cent.
“Although these early indications are low, we must keep in mind that this first announcement of a projected opening irrigation allocation is the absolute worst-case scenario,” said Mr Whetstone.
“In 2009, during the Millennium Drought, the irrigation year began at 2 per cent allocation and finished on 62 per cent.
“Last year, early predications began at 14 per cent and finished up on 100 per cent.
“Although the figure is obviously a concern for irrigators, I cannot stress enough that this is an early indication and the announcement provides growers with a snapshot into the water year and an opportunity to plan ahead.”