NSW:Drought-declared area greater, but good winter crop hopes

AAP General News (Australia)
04-16-2006
NSW:Drought-declared area greater, but good winter crop hopes

SYDNEY, April 16 AAP - The proportion of NSW in drought has risen since last month,
but early winter crop estimates are up on last year's figures, the state government says.

Primary Industries minister Ian Macdonald said 46 per cent of NSW was now drought declared,
an eight per cent increase on March figures.

However, early winter crop estimates were up by nearly 20 per cent compared to last
year, with 4.7 million hectares forecast.

"March rains in the northern part of the state have helped lift confidence in that
region's winter crop outlook," Mr Macdonald said.

However, there was a need for some solid state-wide rains in order to meet forecasts, he said.

"In order to see a strong winter crop season we really need some good soaking rains
of between 75 to 100mm across the state," Mr Macdonald said.

"Without this, our winter crop forecasts will decline."

"All hopes are pinned on decent rain in the next several weeks."

Most water storage levels also needed a boost, he said, with NSW dam capacity at 38 per cent.

AAP ajc/arb/de

KEYWORD: CROPS

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