Hydro Tasmania and the Cressy Longford Irrigation Scheme (CLIS) have struck a deal that will see irrigators get more water in winter to store and save for summer irrigation.  

Irrigators will have access to 8,500ML of winter water (up from 5,000ML), taking advantage of the higher water availability during that period.  

The water will be stored in local dams on farming properties, ready for irrigation during summer when demand for water peaks but water availability is low.  

The increase takes the total annual water allocation for the CLIS to 28,500ML.  

Hydro Tasmania Executive General Manager Commercial Vedran Kovac said it had previously needed to run Poatina Power Station to meet requests for additional water in summer.  

“It’s expensive and inefficient to run the power station if the energy demand isn’t there,” said Mr Kovac.  

“Under the new deal, we can provide irrigators with the water they need for summer ahead of time.”  

CLIS Chair Lauchie Cole said the Scheme was pleased to have collaborated on a new deal with Hydro Tasmania that will give irrigators more certainty around water access.  

“Being able to take additional water during wetter months gives irrigators more security for that peak irrigation season during summer,” said Mr Cole.  

“Access to winter water will mean the irrigation district can use existing dam storages in the scheme to increase the overall water usage and operational efficiency during peak water usage time.  

“The water will be made available under long-term winter water contracts and with the water going into storages, we are confident we can supply the contracted water during the winter period.  

Mr Kovac said the deal was an example of great collaboration between Hydro Tasmania and irrigators, which have worked hand-in-hand for a century.  

“It’s sustainable, cost-effective and a win-win for everyone involved,” said Mr Kovac. 

CLIS provides water to more than 100 irrigators in the region via 150 kilometres of channels. The water comes from yingina/Great Lake, via the Poatina Power Station and is managed by Hydro Tasmania.