12 May 2008

The recent launch of the 'Regional Irrigation Development Guidelines: Northern Victoria' marks the beginning of a new environmentally sustainable and risk based approach to irrigation development across the catchments of northern Victoria.

The Guidelines have been jointly developed by the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA), North East CMA, Goulburn Broken CMA, Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Department of Sustainability and Environment and Goulburn-Murray Water to ensure consistency and a holistic approach to irrigation development.

Jenny Williams, Deputy Chair of the North Central CMA Board, said, "The development of the Regional Irrigation Development Guidelines is a wonderful example of cooperation and partnership between the various agencies involved in environmentally sustainable irrigation across northern Victoria."

The new Guidelines are a tool to help irrigators meet the planning and licensing requirements for irrigation development and ensure irrigation development continues in a sustainable and viable manner. This will minimise the negative impacts of irrigation on the natural environment and downstream users. The Guidelines also assess the potential impacts upon both the environmental and cultural heritage of proposed irrigation sites.

Mr Gavin Hanlon, CEO of the North Central CMA, noted, "undertaking best practice irrigation across northern Victoria will lead to improved river health outcomes, reduced off-site impacts and maximise the opportunities presented through irrigation system modernisation."

The new Guidelines will apply to applications for, variations to or renewals of Water Use Licences and Works Licences. To assist with the application process, the North Central CMA and DPI have engaged an Irrigation Development Coordinator to inform landholders of the technical requirements of the application and guide applicants through the process.

Ron Harris (DPI), John Riddiford (CEO NECMA), Steve Mills (G-MW Chair), Dr Huw Davies (GBCMA Chair), Gavin Hanlon (NCCMA CEO), Bill O'Kane (GBCMA CEO), David Stewart (G-MW CEO), Jenny Williams (NCCMA Deputy Chair) gather to celebrate the launch of the RIDGs in Shepparton.

For further information please contact:

Communications Officer
North Central Catchment Management Authority
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551

t: 03 5448 7174
f: 03 5448 7148
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au