The QLD Country Life have quoted one of Australia’s leading climate scientists Professor Roger Stone from the University of Southern Queensland’s International Centre for Applied Climate Sciences.
Professor Stone has indicated that two respected US models have pointed to the alarming trend that indicates the current El Nino may not break next autumn. The two models are from the Florida State University and the US Government.
Professor Stone has said that the climate modelling which has been done by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) were not showing the same trend as the US modelling at present. However he has indicated that the BOM modelling has forecast mostly dry conditions for the coming months and seasons.
“The thing to consider is it is very early days and there is a need to watch this climate pattern very closely.”
Professor Stone said “If there is something serious going on than the other climate models will catch up and when we get to autumn there will be a better indication of which way it’s going to go for the following 10-12 months,”
What should farmers and growers do about this new information? The key things to consider include;
- Monitor the long term forecasts as they are updated. Is the drought forecast to continue or will it break.
- Consider major capital expenses planned based on the El Nino breaking
- Ensure all water conservation systems such as water tanks, guttering systems and stock watering systems are adequate and well maintained
With lower levels of rainfall expected, the storage of rain water has become more important. Investing in rain harvesting systems such as water tanks and adding guttering to buildings previously not guttered should be considered.
There are many benefits of having a rain water harvesting system such as a water tank installed in your home/ farm/ land;
- Supply of water for your garden/to wash your car or to fill the pool
- Connect to the house mains for use in toilets and washing machines
- On the farm for storing stock water
- On industrial sites for worker camps, workshops and general buildings
- Add value to your home
- Help you do your bit to save Australia’s water
After the millennium drought in the 2000s water tanks have become a lot more common. Now there are around 26% of households that have a rainwater harvesting system installed. This on site availability of high quality water provides relief from water restrictions, saves water which would normally go into the storm water system or into the paddocks and helps the environment by reducing run off.
For more information on the current state of play relating to the drought contact University of Southern Queensland’s International Centre for Applied Climate Sciences or Bushman tanks for information on water tanks and rain water harvesting by visiting www.bushmantanks.com.au, or calling 1800 008 888 to speak with your local Bushmans water tank expert.
