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Q and A
How does the project work?
In each of the four key regions, Goulburn Valley & Swan Hill, Sunraysia, the Riverland and the Riverina, local organisations have been appointed as Regional Managers to oversee the work of Extension Providers.
Extension Providers who have backgrounds in either horticulture or finance will provide one-on-one information sessions for growers. They can assist you to work through your options by tailoring agronomic and financial information to your situation.
I have irrigated horticulture, what does it mean for me?
If you are managing your business on reduced water availability and feel that access to good, relevant agronomic and financial information will assist you to know your options and plan ahead, this service is for you.
Extension Providers will assist you with:
- Information targeted to your specific needs
- Assessing your business issues including the refinancing of next season’s crop and/or water trading
- Identifying linkages with other agencies offering professional support, such as agronomic, accountancy, and mental health support services, and Centrelink
- Identifying linkages with other programs providing support to irrigators
How is this different from other drought information programs?
There are a number of drought information programs in existence within the MDB. This program is one-on-one and as well as working through your options, it will assist you to understand what else is on offer and determine if those programs are also relevant to your situation. It is important to recognise that some horticulture irrigators have not accessed any of the available programs and could be missing out on valuable assistance with their businesses.
How can I participate and what can I expect?
Growers who are interested in using the service should contact either the Regional Manager in their area or an Extension Provider directly to arrange a free, one-on-one confidential session.
Extension Providers will organise an initial visit to your property at a convenient time. During this meeting, an action plan will be developed which takes into consideration your individual situation and sets out activities that can be undertaken in response to managing your business with reduced water.
Some of these actions may relate to:
- production scenarios during 2008/09 and beyond
- budgeting dollars and water
- looking at off-farm income
- developing timelines for future decisions.
A second, follow up visit will include a review of the action plan and the progress made.
Know someone who might benefit?
If you don’t think you would benefit from this service but know of someone who might, for example a neighbour or fellow grower, please let them know about the service and encourage them to find out more about what it can do for them.
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