Snapshot of environmental water in the NSW northern basin

The NSW Government has provided an update to the public, outlining how it is delivering upon its commitment to better manage environmental water in the NSW northern Murray-Darling Basin.

Department of Industry – Water Executive Director, Rachel Connell said the release of Better Management of Environmental Water in NSW – Northern Murray-Darling Basin Snapshot – December 2018, provides the community with confidence that the NSW Government is continuing to progress a key part of the water reforms.

“We are committed to better managing environmental water in the NSW northern Murray-Darling Basin to protect the environment, the communities and the industries that depend on it.

“As part of the Water Reform Action Plan, an Inter-agency Working Group with New South Wales and Commonwealth representation was established in February this year. The group was tasked with providing advice to Government on solutions for better managing environmental water.

“Managing environmental water is a complex issue and we need to take the time to get it right. We are keen to identify solutions that will improve environmental outcomes, while balancing the needs of other water users,” she said.

The NSW Government is undertaking modelling and analysis to understand the benefits and impacts of possible solutions. The release of the Snapshot today provides the community with an update on progress while this further analysis is undertaken.

Comprehensive community consultation, including the results of the analysis, will take place in the first half of 2019 as part of the water resource planning process.

“Giving stakeholders the opportunity to provide feedback will ensure the benefits and impacts of any options are understood before any decision is made,” she said.

The Better Management of Environmental Water in NSW – Northern Murray-Darling Basin Snapshot – December 2018 information can be found on the NSW Department of Industry website.