Hills orchardists received a $23,500 grant to get a better understanding of water resource management practices to combat climate change.
Camera IconHills orchardists received a $23,500 grant to get a better understanding of water resource management practices to combat climate change. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Perth Hills orchardists get grant to study water resources

Tim SlaterComment News

GROWERS in the Perth Hills are on a mission to better understand and manage ground water resources to adapt to the drying climate.

They have received a $23,500 grant from Coca-Cola South Pacific, through its partnership with Landcare Australia, to put towards research and share the findings next year at a conference aimed at the wider farming and Landcare community.

Hills Orchard Improvement Group spokesman Brett Del Simone said a decline in rainfall and groundwater had created considerable concern for orchardists in the region.

“The project will enable local producers to continue their endeavours and explore new pathways to use precious water supplies in the most efficient means possible,” Mr Del Simone said.

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Perth NRM regional Landcare facilitator Shayanna Crouch said growers could collaborate with horticultural experts, water management consultants and government and industry partners to help them benchmark irrigation and fertiliser management practices.

“They will also be able to liaise with climate change modelling experts to help determine current groundwater resources,” Ms Crouch sai8d.

“The project will also help local food producers get practical and useful information to help them make sustainable agricultural decisions.”