Premier tours as drought increases across the state
Wednesday December 16, 2009
NSW Premier Kristina Keneally toured drought-affected NSW last weekend after new figures show more than 80 per cent of NSW is now officially in drought, with seven more regions moving into drought.
In total, more than 95 per cent of NSW is either in drought or considered marginally in drought.
The last time over 80 per cent of the state was drought declared was more than two years ago, in November 2007.
The latest official figures reveal 80.8 per cent of the state is now drought declared (up from 73.6 per cent in October), with 14.8 per cent considered marginal (down from 24.5 per cent), while only 4.4 per cent is satisfactory (up from 1.9 per cent).
Ms Keneally visited several regional areas with Minister for Primary Industries and Rural Affairs Steve Whan and President of the NSW Farmers Association Charles Armstrong.
“These figures paint a very bleak picture for farmers and it’s likely to get worse with this summer expected to be the worst in years,” Mr Whan said.
“Rain is desperately needed over the Christmas/New Year period to replenish water supplies that are close to running out in many regions.”
Many farmers are now carting water and supplementary feeding to keep their livestock alive.
“The total water storage level is 29.3 per cent of total storage capacity, down 1.7 per cent on last month.
“Let’s hope the new year brings more rain and a change in fortune for our farmers, who have had another tough 12 months with crop failures and reduced prices due to the global financial crisis,” Mr Whan said.
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