Drought Management Plans Securing Long Term Water For Australian Agriculture

Permenant fixed positive displacement solar pump

Figure 1. Permanent fixed Positive Displacement Solar Pump

EnviroAg Australia has a strong background working with Australian businesses in drought. Our offices based in Queensland and New South Wales are always looking for ways to help our clients and potential clients through the drought period. A Drought Management Plan (DMP) allows for the identification of issues and then the correction and implementation of solutions.

DMPs set out dates and specific targets which the primary producer aims to meet. It involves accurate budgeting and analysis of pastures and soils which are intrinsic to your operation. A DMP will also address water infrastructure and analyse the efficiency of each system. Water supply is a primary resource and so the infrastructure which supports this supply must be accurately designed with maximum efficiency. The costs associated with solar panel fabrication have seen a significant drop in recent years, therefore allowing for more cost effective application (Figures 1).

Agricultural enterprises face serious challenges with regards to current and future water security. This is a result of many contributing factors, including extended drought, limited water access and insufficient infrastructure. There is an urgent need to rectify this situation in order to navigate the current drought and protect against future droughts, and safe guard the operations against these impacts; as well as enable the possibility of expanding operations on agricultural properties.

The QLD Government has recently introduced funding aimed at assisting primary producers to improve their water security through the improvement of infrastructure. The emergency water infrastructure rebate is still being offered through the Drought Relief Assistance Scheme (DRAS) run through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). The rebate is designed to assist primary producers in drought declared areas establish water infrastructure to supply water for emergency animal welfare needs. EnviroAg has the expertise to develop and lodge application documents on behalf of primary producers.

We can assist with the following services, designed to optimise your operation:

  • Preparation of Drought Management Plans (DMPs)
  • Budgeting and Property Management Plans (PMPs)
  • Assessment of site water infrastructure requirements using standard industry rates
  • Preparation of Water Reticulation System Designs (WRSDs)
  • Preparation and lodgement of applications for DRAS through DAFF

Please contact EnviroAg at our Brisbane office on (07) 3367 0001 should you wish to discuss the opportunity to harness the services we provide.