|
Home
Prime Development Zones PDZs Press Releases |
|
Prime Development Zones Press Release ~ 21 June 1999 |
|
Scientists assess land for prime development
A team of 15 scientists is assessing the Loddon Murray region's Prime Development Zones to see if they are suitable for new horticultural developments. The scientists have been commissioned by Loddon Murray 2000 plus to undertake detailed land capability studies on the Prime Development Zones. A previous study recommended that 16 zones within the region have adequate infrastructure and surplus water to support new horticultural development. Lake Boga farmer and Chairman of Loddon Murray 2000 plus, Kelvin Free, says the research will ultimately determine exactly which sites are appropriate for new development. "There is no doubt that the region has the resources to support significant new investment in viticulture and horticulture. Our existing channel capacity can support the development of over 13,000 hectares of Prime Development Zones. A further 31,000 hectares could be developed if water rights were transferred upstream and/or channel capacity was increased." Scientists from Agriculture Victoria's Centre for Land Protection Research are carrying out the land capability studies. They have conducted 400 preliminary soil pit assessments and 44 detailed soil pit assessments. Scientist and Project Manager, Martin Bluml, says this is the first time a study of this kind has been undertaken in Victoria. "We are matching land use to land capability at the right stage of the process - before development has started. Our studies will reveal the capability of the land in the Prime Development Zones and the environmental impact of developing these sites." The project brings together a team of scientists from three different agricultural institutes with skills in soil and horticultural research and environmental risk assessment. They are assessing land capability, salinity risks and environmental risks in each of the 16 identified Prime Development Zones. The land is assessed on its capability to support two different horticultural crops, grapes and stone fruit. |
 |
|
|
|
 |
|
Design and Production by
Talkin' Technical Communications |
Updated: December, 1999
Contact LM2000 plus: Kelly.McKnight@nre.vic.gov.au |