Water talks flow on in Forbes

The NSW Farmers Parkes/Forbes Branch is inviting farmers to a water policy update with the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) on Tuesday 27 February in Forbes. 

The update follows on from the NSW Farmers' Water Forum held in Forbes last October and features DPI's Acting Deputy Director General – Water, Charlie Dowsett and NSW Farmers' President, Derek Schoen. 

 Topics to be discussed include the implementation of the Lachlan valley water sharing plan , clarification on the impact of the potential state government withdrawal from the Murray Darling Basin Plan and an update on licence conditions.

NSW Farmers President, Derek Schoen, said farmers are grappling with a process of constant change as new water resource plans get developed for Basin Plan compliance by 2019.

“With the release of the Ernst & Young report into socioeconomic impacts of efficiency measures in the Murray Darling Basin, it is timely that Lachlan Valley farmers come together to hear from one of the top bureaucrats in DPI Water,” Mr Schoen said  

Mr Schoen said the future of the Plan is in doubt and that of Basin communities uncertain, following the passing of a disallowance motion in the Australian Senate to quash amendments proposed by the Northern Basin Review.

“Water is a valuable resource that must be planned for and managed efficiently across the Basin states and we continue to advocate for secure water sharing regimes based on science.”

“There is certainly plenty to talk about when it comes to water management, so don’t miss your chance to ask questions and provide feedback on this important issue for many Lachlan Valley farmers.”

The meeting will be held at the Forbes Services Club, starting from 4:30pm. It is free for NSW Farmers Members and $10 for non-Members. Attendance includes nibbles and drinks. For more information contact NSW Farmers Regional Services Manager Catriona McAuliffe on 0488 100 005. 

Media Contact:   Michael Burt  | 0428 228 988
Date:  Wednesday 22 February 2018