principles and actions , and where relevant , utilisation of existing grower reference groups ( coordinated by SRA ) for further input .
� While the program will target water quality improvement through improved irrigation management , there is agreement among extension providers that the design should necessarily address ( and in some instances , potentially focus on ) broader benefits including productivity and profitability to encourage grower engagement .
� In recognition of the existing individual capacities of the participating delivery partners , the proposed program should focus on delivering the actions that require the support of a collective effort to improve irrigation management . Examples include gathering and consolidation of supporting information , skills development , training , monitoring , reporting metrics and communication .
The cost of this design phase is estimated to be in the order of $ 227,000 based on the items shown in Table 2.1 ( note that this would be subject to further negotiation and discussion with the delivery partners ).
Table 2.1 . Actions and estimated costs for development of a Lower Burdekin Water Quality Implementation Plan .
Item
Appointment of a SRA Water Management Adoption Officer for the 6 month period with the intention to extend this appointment to support implementation , with administration support for a further 6 months . Allocation of resources to involve local experts and growers in a series of design workshops , commissioning of supporting studies and GIS resources as required
Estimated cost $ 150,000
$ 72,000
Communication , M & E |
$ 5,000 |
Estimated total cost |
$ 227,000 |
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