About 70% of world water use is for agriculture. Water management for agricultural use is a major issue in Australia, with problems such as water shortages for irrigation and increasing salinity of soils.

The CERES organic farm aims to produce quality organic produce, while minimising water consumption. Measures will include watering controoled by soil moisture and rain detectors, and an integrated storm water management system to harvest, treat, store and reuse storm water. It is hoped that through this system mains water use is reduced by 60%. Water quality is also being monitored to ensure safe use.