04-08-2003

Securing river health through improved flows and science based management would not only benefit the environment, but would also benefit agricultural industries and recreational users, and create new and valuable opportunities for tourism, leisure industries, and river communities.

Australian Conservation Foundation and National Farmers Federation, Joint Statement to the Prime Minister, Premiers and the Australian Community, July 23, 2003

We need new strategies for managing water in the 21st century because the ways of the 19th and 20th centuries are no longer appropriate.

Wentworth Group, Blueprint for a National Water Plan, July 31, 2003

Recent statements from the Australian Conservation Foundation, National Farmers Federation and the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists have focused on the need for a national effort to protect fresh water resources, and the important role science will play to inform and lead the process.

Earlier this year Land & Water Australia brought together Australia's leading water managers and researchers to undertake a comprehensive review of the existing science and identify the priorities and opportunities for future research. This package of information will be released soon.

According to Land & Water Australia Chair Bobbie Brazil, it is crucial not only to get the science right, but also to get the right science.

'Across the country we can see examples of situations where short-term outlooks have resulted in long-term problems,' Mrs Brazil said.

'With a recognition and understanding of the mistakes of the past, often made with the best intentions and the best information available, we can begin to identify ways to repair the damage and move forward.

'It is critically important to ensure that the investors in research, including Land & Water Australia, target each investment as strategically as possible to ensure the best outcomes for the community and the environment. The priorities identified by the review panel will go a long way to achieve this goal.'

ENDS

Media enquiries: Media Officer, Land & Water Australia 02 6263 6000