For the first time since COVID, River Murray irrigators are being told to expect less than full water allocations, with the Department of Environment and Water releasing their opening projections.
The first estimate sits at 62%, which breaks a run of six years of 100% percent allocations.
The DEW says the opening figure reflects consecutive years of low rainfall and reduced in-flow activity.
Irrigators are being reminded that projections are based on worst-case scenarios, stating that shifting conditions could change the percentage before the start of the water year in June.
With the projected minimum opening allocation being higher than 50%, carryover allocations will not be available in 2026-27.
Renee Thompson, the Department for Environment and Water’s Water Delivery Manager, said management of the River Murray was vital to ensuring the sustainability of the resource.
“Our water resources are carefully managed to provide reliable water delivery for industry and regional communities alongside environmental and system requirements,” Ms Thompson said.
“This announcement is not the final determination for water allocations in the 2026-27 water year and we will be closely monitoring Basin conditions over the coming months.”
The next projected allocation announcement is due on the 15th of May.
