FARMERS are threatening to refuse to install water meters on dams and to pay a water levy, according to a petition tabled in parliament last week.
The petition was started by Flag Australia after a water levy was introduced in the Western Mount Lofty Ranges.
Landholders in the region, and in other areas across SA, have argued charging for water collected on their property was unfair.
Family First MLC Robert Brokenshire asked Water Minister Ian Hunter the action he would take if the threats were acted on or whether he would reconsider the "huge expenses that are applying to irrigators across the state".
Mr Hunter reiterated the levy bought the Western Mount Lofty Ranges in line with other regions in the state.
"Anyone who received an account and is experiencing extreme financial hardship should contact the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources to discuss the possibility of a payment plan," he said.
Mr Hunter said media interest about water levies and licensing in the Mount Lofty Ranges had been based on some incorrect assumptions and he would 'supply some facts'.
"The NRM water levy is a direct contribution to the cost of ensuring the sustainability of those water resources in the region for all users, including industry, farmers and, of course, the environment," he said.
"The allocation levy is based on the right to take a volume of water (an allocation) as endorsed on a water licence and is not determined by usage.
Mr Hunter said the levy supported water planning and management costs across the region.
He gave examples such as development, implementation and ongoing monitoring of the region's water allocation plans, reducing the impact of leaky wells across the region, and working with farmers.
Mr Brokenshire said he had made it clear to constituents they were legally obligated to pay the levy and put meters on their bores and dams.