The NSW Government encourages coastal communities to have their say on whether existing harvestable rights limits in coastal draining catchments are sufficient.
The Department released a discussion paper and hydrological modelling in December 2020 and is now seeking public comment and feedback.
Member Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the NSW Government is reviewing coastal harvestable rights to see if an increase in rights is possible to improve water security for rural farmers and landholders.
“The current harvestable right in coastal draining catchments allows landholders in these regions to harvest 10 per cent of rainfall runoff from their properties as a right,” Mr Singh said.
“Higher rainfall on the coast means we could support more agricultural ventures through increased harvestable rights for some areas, and there are few major public storages on the coast to hold water for agricultural or stock and domestic use.”
Drop-in public consultation sessions will take place on:
- Wednesday 3 March 2021 in Coffs Harbour
- Thursday 4 March 2021 in Grafton
Participants must register to ensure COVID restrictions can be met. The webinars will take place at 4pm on Monday 1 March and Thursday 4 March 2021. For more, visit the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment website.
The Coastal Harvestable Rights Review discussion paper was released in December 2020 and is available to view on the website. An online survey and opportunity to lodge submissions will be open from 8 February to 18 April 2021.
