Investment in irrigation R&D gives good returns

An economic analysis of four projects from Phase 1 of the National Program for Sustainable Irrigation show R&D is a good investment for farmers, the environment and the community.

Agtrans research did an analysis to evaluate the benefits to be delivered from the outcomes of four projects :

• Reducing salinity impact on Lower Murray water (DEP15)
• Changing irrigation systems and management of the Harvey Water Irrigation Area (DAW45)
• Irrigation Futures of the Goulburn Broken catchment (VPI3)
• Northern Australian Irrigation Futures (CDS23)

The analyses looked at three different types of benefits: productivity and profitability; environmental; and social benefits. The benefits across these projects range from water savings to improved decision making.

Such evalulations are important to be able to understand what impact the research has had or is likely to have in the future.

Download economic analysis report

For more information contact Guy Roth on 0417 223 179 or guyroth@roth.net.au