A preferred design for Tasmania's $65.8 million Northern Midlands irrigation scheme has been released by the state government.
The scheme is intended to deliver up to 11,425 megalitres to the region's farms through 90 kilometres of pipeline from south of Cressy to Campbell Town and Ross.
Primary Industries Minister Guy Barnett said when built, the scheme would give 30 farmers water surety and allow them to diversify, expand or value-add to their farms.
"Water is liquid gold," he said.
"It is transforming agriculture into the next decade and beyond.
"Sixteen of the last 20 major water infrastructure project across Australia have been built in Tasmania."
He said the scheme would create up to 60 jobs in its construction and would likely provide 139 jobs once operational.
The state and federal governments contributed $49.3 million towards the scheme and private landholders contributed $16.4 million.
Tasmanian Irrigation chief executive Andrew Kneebone said farmland in the Northern Midlands was productive though it was missing a reliable water supply to give farmers certainty to enter into contracts.
Feedback on the preferred design option can be provided to Tasmanian Irrigation until October 12.
Water sales are scheduled to start in late October.
Construction is planned for early 2022 and water is due to start flowing in time for the 2024-25 irrigation season.
For more information, visit: www.tasmanianirrigation.com.au/schemes/northern-midlands.
Want to read more stories like this?
Sign up below to receive our e-newsletter delivered fresh to your email in-box twice a week.