Preparing for Farm WAP audits

By Amy Madsen, Environmental Advisor (Farm WAP Lead)

Tasmanian Irrigation is about to commence the annual Farm Water Access Plan (Farm WAP) audit process to maintain compliance and environmental excellence.

Farm WAPs are property-specific documents that guide the responsible use of irrigation water and protect the long-term productivity and environmental values of irrigated farmland.

Audits are randomly selected and generally involve around 10 to 15 per cent of irrigators in each scheme who have used more than five megalitres (ML) of water during the season.

If selected, irrigators will be contacted to arrange a suitable time for the audit. To help spread audits across a broader range of properties irrigators audited last season, or those currently awaiting updated Farm WAPs, will not be included in this year’s audit program.

Tasmanian Irrigation is continuing to work through updates and amendments to a number of Farm WAPs following findings from recent audit seasons. We appreciate everyone’s patience as this work progresses.

To help the audit process run smoothly, now is a good time for irrigators to revisit your approved Farm WAP and confirm that irrigation activities align with the approved plan. Common issues identified during audits include irrigation occurring outside approved Farm WAP areas or incorrect dam and storage information.

Audits generally involve:

• A site inspection;

• A discussion with the landholder or irrigation staff; and

• A review of relevant records and documentation.

Having records organised beforehand can make the process quicker and easier.

Audits may be conducted by Tasmanian Irrigation staff or by qualified external consultants approved by Tasmanian Irrigation.

Please note that Farm WAPs are not currently required across all schemes, and this information applies only to irrigators with Farm WAPs.

For assistance or questions, contact the Farm WAP Team on (03) 6398-8433 or email FarmWAP@tasirrigation.com.au.