On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Program (OFIEP)
The Commonwealth through the Department of Agriculture and
Water Resources (formerly Department of the Environment), has
sought organisations experienced in project management related to
farm and irrigation systems to be Delivery Partners for the
Commonwealth's On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Program. Funding is
provided from the Water for the Future Sustainable Rural Water Use
and Efficiency Program.
Murray Irrigation's role as a Delivery Partner is to co-ordinate
individual farm projects. Such projects entail funding by the
Commonwealth for on-farm works for more efficient irrigation, in
return for water entitlements being transferred to the Commonwealth
Environmental Water Holder.
The Commonwealth's On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency Projects have
seen an increased investment in on-farm projects and water savings
on irrigated landholdings. The water entitlements transferred to
the Commonwealth contribute towards the Murray-Darling Basin Plan
target for the NSW Murray, at the same time as improved irrigation
systems making a positive contribution to our community's ability
to cope with less irrigation water in the future.
Murray Irrigation successfully completed the Pilot Program,
Round One and Round Two. We are currently implementing Round Four
and Round Five of these programs. We applied to be a Delivery
Partner in Round Three, however our application was
unsuccessful.
Round Two has all on-farm works completed for all 177
sub-projects.
Round Four of the program includes 52 individual sub-projects
across Murray Irrigation's area of operations. A Funding Agreement
was entered into between Murray Irrigation and the Commonwealth in
December 2014. All 52 sub-projects have begun their on farm works,
with many having already completed their projects.
Round Five of the program includes 39 individual sub-projects
and a Funding Agreement was entered into between Murray Irrigation
and the Commonwealth in August 2016. We will be working with
landholders to complete works before November 2018. This is the
final round of the Commonwealth's On-Farm Irrigation Efficiency
Program.
Should you have any queries, please contact Danielle Walkington,
Customer Accounts Officer, via Customer Support on T. 1300 138
265.
Click on the fact sheets below for details on the
various types of systems.