MALLEE irrigators will be able to apply for water to grow fodder from next week, with flows to start before Christmas.
Member for Mallee Anne Webster has encouraged local growers to apply under the federal government’s water for fodder program.
“At $100 a megalitre, this water is heavily discounted from the market price of approximately $900 in Murray zone seven, below the Barmah Choke,” Dr Webster said.
“Irrigators in the Mallee can apply from the second week in December and water will start to flow before Christmas.
“This water must be used to produce fodder or pasture — it cannot be a by-product of other agriculture.”
Eligible farmers will be able to purchase the water in 50 megalitres (ML) lots, with a maximum purchase of 100ML.
“100ML will grow around 120 tonnes of pasture, resulting in affordable fodder to farmers across the basin, particularly benefiting our Kerang and Cohuna farmers,” Dr Webster said.
Minister for Water Resources and Drought David Littleproud released guidelines for the program on Sunday.
“Water for fodder will help farmers feed livestock so they can recover quickly when the drought breaks,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It will help farmers keep their herds healthy so they’re not forced to destock.”
Mr Littleproud said the program aimed to “keep farmers doing what they do best” and provide hope in tough times.
“Farmers can apply for the first 40 gigalitres (GL) in the second week of December with water flowing by Christmas,” Mr Littleproud said.
“Our vision is for farm businesses and rural communities to be prepared for and capable of managing drought.
“This is just one part of our drought plan.”
Member for Farrer Sussan Ley also called on farmers in her electorate to take advantage of the program.
“This is extra water secured by the Morrison Government that will help local farms and businesses, while also producing desperately needed fodder for other regions,” Ms Ley said.
She stressed that the water could only be utilised to produce fodder or pasture.
“Dairy farmers for instance could use it to feed their own herds, but for many farms this will be a stimulus to drive income while supplying fodder to drought ravaged areas,” she said.
“Farmers can apply for 50ML of water per access licence with a maximum of two applications,” Ms Ley said.
For eligibility and to apply, visit https://www.agriculture.gov.au/water/mdb/programs/basin-wide/water-for-fodder
You can also email further inquiries to waterforfodder@agriculture.gov.au. or call 1800 900 090.
