Blackbutt Growers Water Demand Assessment Gets Underway
Insufficient and uncertain water supply in Blackbutt has meant underinvestment by many growers and agricultural businesses in Blackbutt.
Through phase two of the National Water Infrastructure Development Fund project, lead consultant KBR has found that future deterioration in water supply due to climate variability will further limit and reduce the region’s agricultural competitiveness, economic growth, and jobs.
Regional Development portfolio holder Councillor Kirstie Schumacher said in conversations this week growers confirmed insufficient and uncertain water supply is restricting investment and stifling economic growth in Blackbutt.
“There are a number of long terms water solutions that have been identified through the options analysis and we have many reasons to be optimistic,
“With project lead KBR, Council is conducting a robust water demand assessment and it is critical we hear from anyone who may have an interest in purchasing water for agricultural or manufacturing in Blackbutt.
“The demand assessment is key to demonstrating and persuading all levels of government that there is sufficient collective demand and a willingness from growers to take and pay for water.
“Blackbutt’s proximity to market and rich red soils means that with water, growers could expand their high-value plantings, or invest in further horticultural operations, increasing their outputs, employing more people and importantly enabling their families to plan and grow their operations into the future,” she said.
Principal Economic Advisor Matt Bradbury said the water market is competitive, many regions are having similar conversations and we need grower’s support and enthusiasm to inform the demand assessment and validate the potential long-term solutions.
“We are asking growers to complete a non-binding round one expression of interest form that will collectively determine there is sufficient demand to progress the options to secure water for Blackbutt growers and irrigators.
“Growers need to be accurate and realistic with the information they provide, and really consider what additional land they could develop and what they could grow if they have access to more water.
“We are undertaking round one of a three-step demand assessment process; this is an important part of the process.
“Whenever you ask government to invest in a water project you must be able to demonstrate that the agricultural benefits or economic activity is greater than the cost of the project.
“We are working to demonstrate to both state and federal government that we have a commitment from irrigators, irrigators have a willingness to purchase the water and that providing reliable water to Blackbutt stacks up,” he said.
Please download the Expression of Interest Form here or speak directly with Matt Bradbury on 0410 225 113 or email matt.bradbury@kbr.com should you have any questions or need support in completing your expression of interest.
