Taking advantage of the cooler months, MI has commenced a program of automation, repairs and scheduled maintenance to irrigation infrastructure across the region. Our program of winter works is spread across the entire MIA including structures in Murrami and Griffith, as well as on Lake Talbot.
The Winter Works program is vital to deliver upgrades and maintenance to keep the water delivery infrastructure and systems operating as efficiently as possible throughout the year. They also provide the opportunity to deliver upgrades that can further support our customers in their businesses.
MI’s integrated network will be put to the test over the coming months with the automation works, WaterNSW maintenance at Gogelderie Weir and Berembed Weir throughout June and July and expected higher water use on winter crops.
“We will be working closely with customers and using our storages along the network to minimise supply interruptions and will keep customers updated as things progress,” said MI CEO Brett Jones.
As always, a key focus is also to ensure the safety of the community.
“We are conscious that works can impact people who live, work and travel in the area and have in place a process to keep customers and affected community members informed well in advance,” said Mr Jones.
The MI Customer Engagement team will be getting in touch with customers impacted by the works about their critical watering needs such as frost protection for citrus, and domestic access where there is no alternative water supply.
The major project this winter works period will be the automation of regulators in the Murrami and Griffith areas, as part of Stage 3 of our ongoing Automation Project.
Mr Jones explained that customers outlets will also be modernised in these areas.
“With around 70% of our channel system now automated, completing the automation across the rest of our water delivery network will help us to deliver water to customers in the best way possible,” Mr Jones said.
Sections of some channels where there are no works will be lowered intermittently to allow for inspections and programmed maintenance works. These works include channel bank repairs, desilting and pump shed maintenance.
For more information keep an eye on our Facebook page or check out our website: www.mirrigation.com.au/Home
Source: MI