Project Name:
Scoping and Programming of Stage 1 of Foodbowl Modernisation Project
Client:
Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE)
Project Description:
Hydro Environmental was engaged to assist DSE in the planning and delivery of Stage 1 of the Foodbowl Modernisation Project (FBMP).
The FBMP objective is to develop a world class irrigation system in the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District. In doing so, it will improve the efficiency of the system and provide improved service to irrigators. The overall Project aims to save up to 450 GL of water by the end of 2015 which will be shared between the environment, irrigators and urban uses.
The FBMP will be delivered in stages with the following major milestones:
- Stage 1: June 2010 – 75 GL of short term water savings achieved for transfer to Melbourne via the Sugarloaf pipeline as a safeguard until the desalination plant is commissioned and operational.
- Stage 2: December 2012 – a total of up to 225 GL of water savings available to be shared equally between the environment, irrigators and Melbourne.
- Stage3: December 2015 – a total of up to 450 GL of water savings achieved available to be shared equally between the environment, irrigators and Melbourne.
Funding to a total of $1bn has been allocated by Government to achieve the December 2012 milestone.
In close consultation with DSE and Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW), utilising information developed by G-MW, Hydro Environmental assisted in the preparation of the scope a manageable Program of work to commence in winter 2008 and progress through to winter 2009 required to achieve automation of the main carriers and trunks by 2010 and to prepare the Project Plan for Government approval to proceed with Stage 1 expenditure.
Key Skills Applied:
Water accounting, irrigation practices, water regulatory framework, stakeholder consultation and engagement, knowledge management, project management, knowledge of irrigation delivery system, understanding of irrigation water provider business needs, report writing and communication.