Adoption of an updated Mersey River Catchment Water Management Plan 2024

The Tasmanian Government is pleased to announce the adoption of an updated Mersey River Catchment Water Management Plan to meet the needs of local water users.

The Plan sets out the framework for managing water resources in the Mersey Water Management Plan Area to optimise the benefits for a range of users, including the community, the environment and commercial operators.

Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said the previous Mersey Water Management Plan was adopted in 2005 and the updates were in keeping with the Tasmanian Government’s 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future and our commitment to support farmers.

“Over the past decade and a half, many changes have occurred in the catchment including a shift in enterprises, new irrigation schemes and an increase in water allocations,” Minister Howlett said.

“The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) reviewed the existing management arrangements with the aim to improve the way we manage water for the future.

“Amendments to the Mersey Water Management Plan 2005 were carefully considered and informed by feedback from key stakeholders through the Mersey Water Management Plan Consultative Group. The Plan was also independently reviewed by Tasmanian Planning Commission.

“The amended Plan provides a water management framework that is able to meet the community’s needs and expectations, now, and looking ahead for the next 10 years.”

The Mersey River Catchment Water Management Plan is available on the NRE Tas website: https://nre.tas.gov.au/water/water-management-plans/adopted-water-management-plans/mersey-water-management-plan