ISHS Acta Horticulturae 247: Research and Development Conference on Vegetables, the Market and the Producer
LOCKYER VALLEY, QUEENSLAND, WATER USE EFFICIENCY PROGRAM PROPOSAL |
| Author: | I.C. Atkinson |
| Abstract:
Queensland's Lockyer Valley produces more than 15 000 hectares of irrigated vegetables with water from an alluvial aquifer. Expansion of the area under irrigation and a number of below average rainfall years has abruptly highlighted the problem of water supply. Annual average use at 46 450 ML exceeds by far the safe annual recharge of 16 200 ML so the problem is a recurring one. The aquifer is not under the control of any organisation so individuals have little incentive to save water. The Queensland Department of Primary Industries in conjunction with the Queensland Water Resources Commission and Queensland Agricultural College has formulated a Research and Development Program to promote Water Use Efficiency. The Program will involve investigations into irrigation scheduling, the cost of water and the use of improved irrigation technology under south-east Queensland soils and climate. Australian Government funding is being sought to undertake the program. | |
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