Annual report for Land and water for 2003 - 2004 (formerly known by its legal title, the Land and Water Resources Research and Development Corporation)

Water is basic to a large number of values that are important to people. In addition to its direct and immediate life-supporting attributes, it is also essential for the continued functioning of most other ecosystems in the natural environment. The level of human impact on the natural world is now so great, however, that in many situations it has become necessary to deliberately set aside a proportion of the available water so that the environment and its ecosystems can continue to function. Water used for this purpose is described by the all embracing term 'environmental water'. However, as this discussion paper shows, that umbrella description includes a great variety of different strategies, aims and situations.

This is Land & Water Australia's fourth Annual Operational Plan under the current Strategic R&D Plan 2001-6. In 2004-5 we will be investing in and managing a range of R&D programs that will contribute to the Corporation's mission

The review of farmer initiated innovative systems has been conducted on a case study basis. Case studies were selected for a range of criteria, including the ability to impact on water and nutrient balance. Case studies identified throughout Australia were visited and interviewed by project officers. The information collected was analysed on a technical and non-technical basis and used to make a series of recommendations.

Knowledge is fundamental to improving the competitiveness, responsiveness and levels of innovation that we see in industries. This research project aimed to determine how information and knowledge about water management and water use efficiency is being used and managed in irrigated cotton and grains and the key factors influencing decision making. To do this, 90 interviews of growers of cotton and grains, consultants, extension workers, government researcher officers, and irrigation equipment suppliers were conducted and a stakeholder workshop held to integrate and progress the findings.

In July 2003, ACIL Tasman, in conjunction with Freehills, was commissioned by Land & Water Australia, on behalf of itself and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry, to develop a workable system of water property titles in Australia.

This report been prepared by the CIE as part of the National Program for Sustainable Irrigation. The financial assistance provided by the Program through Land and Water Australia is gratefully acknowledged. Many people have contributed to this study. Murray Chapman, Program Coordinator for the National Program for Sustainable Irrigation deserves praise for his enthusiastic support and assistance throughout the study. Colin Creighton, formerly Rivers Manager, Land and Water Australia, first suggested the project

This report examines the scope for private-sector investment in water savings from irrigation delivery schemes, particularly in light of current interest in improving water use-efficiency in Australian rivers. The objective of the report is to inform policy-makers of the options for private-sector financing and the barriers to implementation.

The Annual Operational Plan (AOP) - provides a detailed account of the specific developments and activities (including the budget) planned for the forthcoming year

This report contains a review of the major methodological frameworks (sensu Tharme 1996) for environmental flow assessment developed or applied in Australia.