An outlet of the Mulwala canal that releases environmental flows was blocked by dirt and rocks over the weekend in what Murray Irrigation and the Murray Darling Basin Authority are calling an act of vandalism.
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Murray Irrigation, who own the Mulwala Canal, said in a statement that the act only served to hurt farmers who are already doing it tough.
"The vandalism on Murray Irrigation's channel over the weekend has the potential to cost the company thousands of dollars in repairs, overtime costs and lost revenue and water, which ultimately impacts all shareholders," Murray Irrigation stated.
Murray Irrigation CEO, Phil Endley said they were alerted to the interference with the Murray Irrigation canal on social media.
"Frankly, it's disappointing to see this damage. We share the frustrations of our shareholders with the current conditions, but vandalism is simply the wrong way to go," Mr Endley said.
"Just two weeks ago, we released 50GL of water to farmers as an early allocation in recognition of the impact that ongoing zero allocations and drought were having on our customers.
"So, it's especially disappointing to see this happen. There are far better, more constructive ways for people to voice their concerns - ways that don't hurt their fellow farmer."
He said the company had reported the matter to the police and the National Resource Access Regulator, who has overall responsibility for the compliance and enforcement of water laws in NSW.
MDBA stated they were saddened by the 'deliberate act of vandalism.'
"We would be concerned if further acts of vandalism occur, noting that they would create pressure on local Murray Irrigation Limited staff and increase cost for all MIL customers," the authority stated.
The Mulwala Canal is occasionally used by the MDBA to deliver water past the Barham Choke.
"When doing so the MDBA meets the financial cost and associated conveyance loss," the MDBA stated.
"The canal is an important channel for delivering water to a range of entitlement holders-damage to the canal ultimately hurts all water users, not just environmental water holders."
