Bushfire recovery support and resources now available for land managers affected by the Deep Creek and Nangkita fires.
Farm water usage calculator
The Farm Water Calculator is a free tool to help landholders in the Eastern and Western Mount Lofty Ranges estimate how much water they need for different uses — like stock, domestic, irrigation and industrial.
Use the water calculator to:
- Get a clear picture of your total water needs
- Check if your current water sources can meet demand
- Plan for future water use based on your production goals
- Identify opportunities to improve water efficiency or manage shortfalls
The calculator takes you through five simple steps:
- Property location – Helps determine your climate zone for accurate irrigation estimates.
- Unlicensed water use – Estimate water used for stock, domestic needs, firefighting, and non-irrigated crops.
- Licensed irrigation use – Calculate water needed for irrigated crops (requires a water licence).
- Licensed industrial/commercial use – Estimate water use for business or industrial purposes (also requires a licence).
- Results summary – See your total estimated water needs and compare them with your current water allocation.
Water calculator
Note that the data contained in this farm water calculator is provided for general information and should be used as a guide only. The information should not be used as the sole basis for decision making. You are advised to exercise caution and seek independent professional advice before entering into any investment or financial obligation based on the results from this calculator.
Thinking about water trading?
If your estimated needs are higher or lower than your current water allocation, you may want to consider water trading — buying or selling water to better match your needs.
This will be subject to assessment under the relevant Water Allocation Plan for your area.
For more information about water trading, applications and fees, contact the Department for Environment and Water on (08) 8463 6876, or visit the Permits and Licences page.
