- $10 million for horticulture businesses in Manjimup-Pemberton region to improve water security and adapt to climate change
- Cook Labor Government helping to future-proof horticulture businesses and fresh produce supplies
Regional Development Minister Don Punch and Water Minister Simone McGurk were in Manjimup today to launch a $10 million grant scheme designed to help horticulture growers in the Manjimup-Pemberton region improve on-farm water security and adapt to a drying climate.
Growers can apply for grants of up to $100,000 from the new Southern Forests Infrastructure Support Scheme for a range of water efficient irrigation systems and devices.
This includes water delivery systems such as sprinklers, drippers, automation systems, and software, as well as water management devices, including probes and water meters, and evapotranspiration measures like bird or crop netting.
Installing or upgrading farm dam bypass systems to meet compliance requirements and aid water management will also be considered.
The new scheme is a key outcome from the State Government's Southern Forests Irrigation Scheme Reference Group, which has worked closely with the community to pursue solutions to water availability in a drying climate.
The State Government's funding commitment will help create stronger horticulture businesses in the Manjimup-Pemberton region that can withstand climate variability and maintain future fresh produce supplies.
For more information on the scheme and to lodge a grant application, please visit:https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/waterforfood/water-security-southern-forests-horticulture-industry
Comments attributed to Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"Growers in the Manjimup-Pemberton region make a valuable contribution to our dining tables, agricultural exports, and to the local economy - that's why we're working to ensure their resilience into the future.
"We have listened to the community and developed a scheme that takes a long-term approach to building secure on-farm water supplies for horticulture production.
"Flexibility has been built into the Southern Forests Infrastructure Support Scheme so property owners can tailor their applications to develop resilient businesses that can weather the variable climate years."
Comments attributed to Water Minister Simone McGurk:
"The hot, dry conditions we're seeing are our new normal. Improving our water efficiency is absolutely vital and our Government is committed to working with the horticulture industry to achieve this.
"With over 480 water licences in the Manjimup-Pemberton region, even modest water savings can have significant impacts that benefit both growers and the surrounding environment.
"I strongly encourage growers to apply for these grants. They can pay for practical measures which can save water and money for farmers working in this region."
Comments attributed to Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:
"I thank the Cook Government for this $10 million commitment, which will help secure sustainable water resources for the horticultural industry and Manjimup and Pemberton communities into the future.
"I look forward to continuing to work with the Warren Donnelly Water Advisory Committee on water planning for the catchment, and strongly encourage businesses interested in securing their water security to apply to the support scheme."
