The Horsham SmartWater and Integrated Water Management project is now complete, with new water recycling infrastructure at the Horsham Wastewater Treatment Plant set to support Victoria’s agricultural research.
Researchers at the Horsham SmartFarm now have access to better quality water for research to irrigate their crops thanks to the installation of a reverse osmosis plant.
The $11.8 million project included construction of a new network of pipes through the city of Horsham, with connections to green spaces such as parks, ovals, the cemetery and the racecourse, providing up to 126ML of recycled water for irrigation per year, reducing the need to use valuable drinking water.
The Victorian Government said that more recycled water allows Agriculture Victoria researchers to conduct field experiments to improve the profitability, productivity and sustainability of crop production. Purified wastewater will be used to irrigate more than 50ha of grain, oilseed and legume crops.
The State Government said using more diverse sources of water, such as recycled water, ensures a water supply for open spaces during dry spells, delivers environmental and economic benefits, and bolsters the region’s long-term water security.
The two projects were jointly funded by the Victorian and Federal governments.
Victorian Minister for Water, Gayle Tierney, said, “This sustainable water project will ensure our important local parks and fields will continue to stay green and thrive year-round without using our precious drinking water.”
Victorian Senator, Jana Stewart, said that investment in Horsham’s water recycling infrastructure ensures that local agricultural producers and researchers will continue to benefit from a sustainable water source.
“This project builds on our investments in regional Victoria and allows Wimmera’s beautiful parks and gardens to flourish,” she said.
Victorian Minister for Agriculture, Ros Spence, said, “Sustainable water supply at the Horsham SmartFarm means our researchers can expand their field crop trials and continue to deliver practical research that makes a difference for Victorian growers.”
Member for Western Victoria, Jacinta Ermacora, said, “Integrated Water Management Projects like this are crucial to diversify our water sources and secure sustainable water supplies for our growing communities and towns in the Wimmera.”
