There could be hope yet for the MIA amid the uncertainty of new water allocation limits, with the NSW Farmers’ Association announcing they will conduct an independent survey into the Murray Darling Basin planning process.
President Charles Armstrong says the Association is concerned that all stakeholders are not being equally considered in the planning for the Basin.
“It seems that the planning methodology being used by the Murray Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) involves determining how much water is required for the environment, and then allocating what remains between the other water users in the basin,” he says.
“We want to see our scarce water resources allocated in a way that optimises the social, economic and environmental outcomes of the basin.
“An informed discussion about how much water should be allocated to different environmental needs in the Basin cannot be had without a clear understanding of social and economic consequences of removing this water from its current uses.”
The survey will aim to increase understanding of the concerns of affected
stakeholders in the Murray Darling Basin. It will also provide valuable data for use in the Association’s submission in response to the Draft Basin Plan.
“I strongly encourage everyone to take this opportunity in having your voice heard,” Mr Armstrong says.
“We only have a limited window to ensure the best outcomes for everyone.”
The survey has been designed to take no longer than 10 minutes, and can be found at www.nswfarmers.org.au/surveys/mdb.
Hard copies of the survey can be obtained from the Association Member Service centre by calling 1300 794 000.
