Northern Victorian irrigators are pouring on the water as they try to compensate for a dry spring and make capital from the relatively low water prices.
Although only a few months into the irrigation season, G-MW has delivered 373,000 Ml of water, well over twice the average for this stage of the season.
G-MW is attributing the high demand to a dry winter and spring.
Eildon’s level has been slowly declining in recent months, and as at October 28, was holding about 85 per cent.
Dartmouth was holding 92 per cent, compared to about 99 per cent at the same time last year.
Lake Eildon’s inflows in September was about a third of its normal for the month.
The demand for water downstream of the lake has meant the lake’s levels have been falling during a time of year it would usually be rising.
Even more pronounced have been the reduced inflows into Lake Eppalock.
Throughout September, only 2300 Ml flowed into the lake, less than 10 per cent of the September average
Shepparton recorded only 15mm of rain in September, compared to 36mm average, and is on track for a lower than average October total.
For Echuca, only 5mm fell, compared to a 38mm average in September.
G-MW water delivery services general manager Warren Blyth said the high demand was due to a culmination of factors.
“We have come off a few very wet years, which has meant our dams have been well-stocked and water availability has been high,” he said.
“However, a dry winter meant we received far more orders in the first weeks of the irrigation season than we would usually expect, and so far, the spring rains have also been minimal.”
Mr Blyth said forward planning was important in the face of climate extremes.
“At G-MW, we are currently preparing for what could be a very busy autumn, which is when irrigation demand usually peaks.
“We encourage irrigators to do the same. When irrigation demand approaches channel capacity, water orders invariably take longer to be delivered.
“People should therefore be mindful that if they order water during the busiest time of the season, they could potentially face delays in receiving their order.”
Irrigators with questions about their water orders or delivery shares can contact their water planner on 1300 468 469.