CEMENTING water security for the Barossa region has been a source of contention for a considerable time but soon, graziers could have access to one of the largest water schemes ever to hit the area - if demand can be determined.
Barossa Improved Grazing Group and Angaston Agricultural Bureau have been calling on graziers, rural producers and industry leaders to discuss regional needs for water infrastructure and water security looking towards 2030 and beyond, including them recently hosting a Barossa New Water Project Forum to assist the share of information.
With more information needed about who in the region actually needs water, producers were asked to start making submissions.
After three consecutive years of drought-like conditions, Keyneton grazier and vigneron Mick Hearnden has put in a submission for water, to help safeguard his sheep and cattle operation.
"I guess we need enough people out here to commit to it - or it won't happen," he said. "A lot of people in the area think they are not big enough to request water but everyone should try to put in a submission."
The forum delivered enough of an update for Mr Hearnden to believe the scheme had "promise" but time would tell if it came to fruition.
"The prospect of a water scheme has been on the cards for a long time but we are further than ever at the moment," he said.
Forum coordinator Jane Evans said water demand from producers would form the scope for the distribution of high-quality, fit-for-purpose recycled water from the Bolivar Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Barossa Valley and Eden Valley regions via existing and new infrastructure.
"It was emphasised that the project will also consider infrastructure investigations undertaken for both recycled and raw water supplies for the Eden Valley region, which currently has no access to water security," she said. "The key message was that demand is king and the more demand would lead to a more viable and economic project."
PIRSA is leading the Barossa New Water Project and undertaking a detailed business case for the Barossa region, with support from multiple state departments - with forum attendees updated about where it was at.
"Needs were discussed with key considerations about water infrastructure planning and delivery. Audience feedback addressed the demand for water, economic and commercial viability with supply and delivery options," Mrs Evans said.
A system from the project coordinators to assess water demand for the project would also be undertaken, with findings expected in the new year.
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Vanessa Binks
I am the Markets Editor and journalist at the Stock Journal. I am based at Nuriootpa in SA's lower north.
I am the Markets Editor and journalist at the Stock Journal. I am based at Nuriootpa in SA's lower north.
