Why prepare now?
Drought is part of life in Castlereagh Country and being prepared can make all the difference for your property, business, and community.
This page guides you through 3 steps you can do now, to get ready for drought.
Understanding climate signals
Causes and impacts of past droughts
- Understanding historical droughts can give us insights into what might happen in the future. Read about the Causes, Patterns and Impacts of Drought.
Current drought information
- Use seasonal forecasts, climate outlooks and water availability tools like our Groundwater access tool, to understand current and projected conditions. Being aware early helps you plan.
- Track conditions using the Combined Drought Indicator (CDI) and the Drought Forecast maps. These help signal when to start drought preparedness, before impacts become severe.
The Drought Forecast uses the Bureau of Meteorology seasonal climate model ensemble to determine the NSW-CDI for the coming forecast period.
Drought Forecast maps are provided twice a month (on the release of the SSU and around the 20th of the month). Check here to see the latest version available.
Projected drought conditions
Planning ahead for your farm or business
A written plan helps you act early, make informed decisions, and avoid last-minute stress. Use a drought plan template to assess stock, water, fodder and finances, set trigger points, and define actions for different drought stages.
Do you have a drought farm plan?
Drought is a way of life. We are either in a drought, recovering from a drought or preparing for drought. To try and break the cycle of just reacting to the impacts of drought, a drought plan may be a helpful place to start.
NSW Local Land Services has developed a Drought Plan Template for livestock Producers.
Download the Drought Plan Template (PDF)Accessing tools and support to build resilience
- The Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP) offers coaching, workshops, digital learning and farmer-to-farmer real life case studies.
Through FBRP, you can strengthen farm business planning, risk management, natural resource planning and long-term resilience, not just short-term drought fixes. Access this program at droughthub.nsw.gov.au
Consider succession planning, diversification, adaptive management practices and improved record-keeping to build resilience now.
