Water is flowing across the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (MIA) as warmer weather, and increasing demand, signal a more positive start to the irrigation season than many had anticipated just weeks ago.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) irrigators have headed into spring with improved confidence, supported by successful Supplementary Water Events, increased water availability and continued investment in critical infrastructure across the network.

After opening the season with a General Security allocation of 0 per cent, allocations have now increased to 34 per cent, following the latest announcement last week from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. Combined with around 15 per cent carryover and more than 37GL delivered through recent Supplementary Water Events, the outlook for irrigators has improved significantly since early July.

MI Chief Executive Officer Philip Holliday said the turnaround has provided a welcome boost for farming businesses preparing for the season ahead.

“Early in July irrigators were facing an uncertain start to the season, with dry conditions and zero opening allocations making planning difficult,” Mr Holliday said.

“Today, we're seeing a far more positive outlook. Increased allocations and the delivery of more than 37GL through the Supplementary Water Events have helped boost irrigator confidence as we move into spring.”

The Supplementary Water Events were delivered in close collaboration with WaterNSW and alongside MI's extensive winter maintenance program, providing timely access to water for irrigators.

As water demand begins to increase, MI is transitioning from its intensive maintenance program over the cooler months to in-season operations. Following months of desilting, channel bank rebuilds and system maintenance, essential works will continue throughout the warmer months.

Mr Holliday said maintaining a balance between investing in the network and delivering a reliable water service remains a key priority.

“Regular and increasing investment in our network is essential to ensure we can continue delivering water efficiently, reliably and when our irrigators need it,” he said.