City of Greater Shepparton

City of Greater Shepparton

URL: http://www.greatershepparton.com.au/council/communityconsultation/consultation/murraydarlingbasinplan/declarationconcern/

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Declaration of Concern

On this day 22 November 2010, we, the undersigned Councils, strongly urge the Federal Government to adopt a balanced approach to the development of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

We ask that the same consideration being given to the environment is applied to the social and economic impacts that any proposed changes would have on our families and communities, as these are equally important environments that need to be protected.
To this end, we are calling on the Federal Government to ensure that:

• Social and economic impacts on the community arising from the proposed Sustainable Diversion Limits (SDLs) are clearly identified and included in the proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan; 
• Innovative infrastructure and practices are used to manage and deliver environmental flows, aimed at achieving the required outcomes for the environment with the least amount of water necessary;
• The science behind the calculation of SDLs is reviewed, thereby providing confidence in our communities;
• Water savings already achieved through improved infrastructure, innovation and sustainable farming practices are recognised as contributing to improved environmental flows before calculation of any SDLs; and 
• Water buyback schemes are strategically planned and conducted so as not to disadvantage remaining farmers and communities.
  We are looking for the Federal Government to acknowledge the impact that the implementation of the Plan will have on different communities and to guarantee that support will be provided; importantly, this support is not just through water buybacks, but also to assist in managing the change and minimising negative impacts on families and businesses. Financial support will be required to: 
• Strengthen support services that will be required to address the increased distress likely to be experienced by the community;
• Assist farmers with improving irrigation infrastructure and adopting more sustainable farming practices; and
• Assist in developing alternative business ventures and related training that will lead to a diversified economy in our communities.
  We are looking for the Federal Government to make these commitments to demonstrate that it will make every effort to avoid negative impacts; facilitate a smooth transition; and protect the family and community environments.

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