THE Shepparton Irrigation Region (SIR) is famous as one of Australia’s largest food bowls.
The region’s Land and Water Management Plan (SIRLWMP) has been a cornerstone in ensuring sustainable agricultural practices while protecting the natural environment.
More than three decades since its inception, the plan has been renewed to address contemporary environmental challenges and future-proof the region’s agriculture.
The original plan was developed in response to the pressing issues of salinity and waterlogging, which posed serious threats to the region’s productivity and environmental health.
The updated plan, SIRLWMP 2050, aims to build on past successes and steer the region towards a resilient and sustainable future.
The Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA) is at the helm of the renewal process, with the Shepparton Irrigation Region People and Planning Integration Committee (SIRPPIC) overseeing the plan’s development and implementation.
The GBCMA’s Carl Walters said the collaborative approach underscored the importance of community, stakeholder and government partnership in managing natural resources effectively.
“The SIRLWMP 2050 focuses on integrated management to balance environmental, social, and productive needs,” Mr Walters said. “It emphasises the importance of water quality, biodiversity, land health, and the sustainable development of the irrigation industry.”
He said public feedback was a crucial component of the renewal process because those directly impacted by the plan needed to be heard and considered.
The final document will be submitted to the GBCMA Board for approval and subsequently to the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action for endorsement. For more information, go to, https://engage.vic.gov.au/sirlwmp
