This Report was prepared for the Rice CRC by Mr Bruce Caldwell, B & S Consulting. The views expressed in the Report are those of Mr Caldwell and not necessarily those of the Rice CRC, although we are supportive of the general principles expressed.
The Report was commisioned to assemble data held by various agencies to provide the Rice CRC with an objective perspective on water use and significant environmental aspects associated with rice growing. The conclusion and recommendation section was prepared for the Board of the Rice CRC and has not been included in this published version.
Statistical information contained in the Report was obtained from authoritative sources, including Ricegrowers' Co-operative Limited, Irrigation Companies and the NSW Department of Land and Water Conservation. Every effort has been made to confirm the accuracy of the data but it is not possible to statistically define uncertainties associated with the data.
Significant comments that have been provided subsequently by relevant agencies have been added as a footnote.
The Rice CRC appreciates the work of Mr Caldwell in collating this information. It provides a very valuable collation of historical and trend data. The Rice CRC will endeavour to keep this information current.
Laurie Lewin
Director
