Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries has acknowledged the dry conditions across his electorate stating the level of distress varies across the communities, but has stated the NSW government no longer ‘declares drought’.
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“In the past [Local Government Areas] have been ‘declared drought’ when dry conditions persist which triggered the release of certain supportive measures,” Mr Humphries said in a statement.
“The NSW government no longer technically ‘declares drought’ which is in line with the Intergovernmental Agreement on National Drought Program Reform.”
Mr Humphries said dry conditions develop over time and he is encouraging landholders in the Barwon electorate to prepare for the dry weather or undertake ‘drought preparedness’.
The farming community know that they are facing dry times.
- Kevin Humphries
“I am aware that many are currently experiencing dry conditions throughout our electorate, it is important to consider that while relative soil moisture, rainfall and growth is significantly low, the level of distress is still varied,” he said.
“This is, in part, due to a few good seasons and the ability of our farming community to prepare for dry times.”
Mr Humphries advises land holders and people affected by drought to visit ‘Drought Hub’.
‘Drought Hub’ is an online resource that deals with finance, skills and training, transportation, information and resources, research and development, wellbeing, commonwealth services and support.
“The farming community know that they are facing dry times,” he said.
“I encourage them to ‘check-in' with where they are and their farming business sits in regards to drought preparedness.”