Goulburn-Murray Water today announced the annual groundwater allocation in the Katunga Water Supply Protection Area for the 2010/11 irrigation season.
The 2010/11 allocation has been set at 70% of groundwater licence entitlement. This is the maximum allocation possible under the Groundwater Management Plan for the Katunga Water Supply Protection Area.
G-MW's Acting Executive Manager Water Resources, Dr Mark Bailey, said "The annual allocation determines how much water can be pumped each year from deep lead aquifers. There are about 190 licensed customers across the protection area, which extends from east of Yarrawonga to the Barmah Forest in the west and from the River Murray to just south of Numurkah."
The allocation announcement was made following an assessment of five-year average groundwater use from the deep lead aquifers and average groundwater levels in spring, as specified in the Groundwater Management Plan.
"Over recent years, groundwater has become an important source of irrigation water for customers in the Murray Valley. This announcement will provide some welcome good news and certainty for them," said Dr Bailey
Customers seeking further information about this announcement can direct their inquiry to Tim Ford on 03 5833 5607.
- ENDS -
Media Contact: Sheree Fitzgerald
Position: Corporate Communications Adviser
Telephone: 03 5833 5754