The recently formed Department of Water's next Farm Water Grants Scheme round has received a $700,000 boost by the Western Australian government to total $1.9 million in 2005-06.
Broadacre farmers can share $1million of grants for on-farm water supply improvements. Grants amounting to $900,000 have already been given.
Water Resources minister John Kobelke said broadacre farmers could apply for up to $15,000 through the grants scheme to minimise the effect of drought conditions and avoid the need to cart water.
"On-farm water shortages can have a severe impact on farming families, business operations, and local communities," he said.
"Despite the recent floods, many broadacre farmers are located in areas which often experience extended periods of low rainfall and serious water deficiency.
"Now is the time to plan for drought and put systems in place to better manage our water resources.
"Farmers can apply to fund up to 50 per cent of the cost of planning and installing additional water supplies for domestic, livestock and crop spraying uses."
The grants are available to farmers not connected to piped scheme water services. Applications for this round of funding closes on April 30.
