An ongoing battle with green drought
Tasmania is seen by many in Australia as a lush green paradise, but the reality is that many parts of it are in longstanding and widespread drought conditions. This is a result of what is known as a green drought, and is not unique to Tasmania, and is found in parts of Victoria, Queensland and other parts of the country.
Green drought occurs when there is many rainfall days, mild temperatures and limited sunshine, but not enough rainfall to penetrate the soil, leading to new but insubstantial plant growth. This results in grasses, and greenery, without filling waterways, dams or rivers, and supplying no water to the crops and plantations that are in great need of it.
A problem for Tasmania is that much of the rainfall comes from the West Cost, but cannot cross the mountains, which catch most of the rain. By the time the air makes it to the east coast, much of the precipitation has already fallen.
Dealing with ongoing drought conditions
Many farmers across Tasmania have been forced to destock lamb and cattle, which for some has thankfully been supported by a strong lamb price, however this is small consolation to those dealing with the difficult conditions.
Over the last few seasons, with the fluctuating climate, irrigation has been a saving grace for many. For both growers and graziers, this precious irrigation has returned some burnt dry pastures to a greener state and allowed crops to continue growing, and stock to continue to run.
The Tasmanian Government has provided a bevy of drought assistance packages, with funds for farmers and graziers, as well as households and farm businesses available to help deal with the ongoing dry conditions.
The La Niña weather pattern has this year delivered some much needed rain to the east coast of Tasmania, but local farmers know not to relax too much, as Australian climates continue to be more and more unpredictable.
Dealing with ongoing drought conditions
One other way to ensure some level of predictability and reliability in your water supply is with a high quality water tank.
Filling this with low rainfall will have its difficulties, but if there are rivers, dams or underground water that can be drawn from to help supplement water storage, water tanks don’t suffer the drawbacks of evaporation like many other water sources, and can greatly assist in stock and crop watering.
To determine what water tank size would be best for you, first determine your requirements, annual rainfall and catchment area, before contacting an expert who can help you come up with a plan that will assist your water harvesting operations.
To sure up your water supply give Pioneer Water Tanks a call today on 1800 344 130