Please note: this snapshot is only one source of information that is needed to understand seasonal conditions such as drought to inform government and industy.
The Tasmanian Seasonal Conditions Report (Indicators Snapshot) is produced by the Department to provide a brief snapshot of current seasonal, economic and agronomic conditions for Tasmania. The snapshot is updated by AgriGrowth Tasmania within the Department.
March 2026
Tasmanian Seasonal Conditions Insights Commentary for March 2026 (PDF 645Kb)
Drought cycle status
| Average Seasonal Conditions | Flinders Island, King Island, Circular Head, West Coast, Derwent Valley, Central Highlands, Midlands, Tasman Peninsula |
Preparedness
| North East, South East, East Coast
|
| Emerging Drought Conditions | Nil
|
| In Drought | Nil
|
Transition to Recover
| Nil
|
Refer to: Fact Sheet: Seasonal Conditions and Drought – Tasmania (March 2026) for details on the phased drought decision-making framework used in Tasmania.
Seasonal Conditions and Drought Tasmania -Fact Sheet (PDF 339Kb)
Primary Indicators
March 2026 delivered some short-term easing of dry conditions across Tasmania; however, a persistent longer-term dry signal remains, particularly in eastern and south-eastern regions.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting below‑average autumn rainfall and warmer‑than‑average temperatures.
Additional Climatic Indicators
Soil moisture (continued dryness)
Soil moisture deficits are now concentrated in eastern Tasmania, with below‑ to very much below‑average conditions along the East Coast, particularly around Orford and Triabunna, while the North Coast and North‑east have shown some recovery, easing back toward near‑average levels since February.
Run-off (near average)
Tasmania saw a partial easing of dry conditions in March 2026, with runoff generally rebounding towards average across much of the State while soil moisture and longer‑term indices still highlight a persistent dry signal along the East Coast.
Water (water access reflecting lower rainfall and streamflow)
During March, both a high number of assessments were undertaken and a high number of water access notices were issued, which is consistent with typical March activity.
Tasmanian Irrigation storages decreased across most regions in line with seasonal demand and lower rainfall.
Economic and Agronomic Indicators
Markets (evolving)
Sheepmeat exports still not entering the Middle East market. Fuel, fertiliser and shipping prices have increased significantly.
Livestock (prices remaining steady)
Domestic prices for red meat are still strong with sheepmeat and beef prices higher than the same time last year.
Horticulture (harvest continues)
Cherry harvest complete and berries winding down, with pome fruits being harvested now. Wine grapes commenced harvest four weeks late but estimating average yields and good quality.
Field Crops (harvest near complete)
Harvesting has been completed for most crops. Good yields reported for cereal crops.
Fodder Availability
Rains have eased the need for hay. Plenty of silage is available and prices have remained steady. No constraints in local supply availability.
Social Indicators
On-ground intelligence
Sentiment is weaker with Middle-East conflict impacting fuel and fertiliser prices and supplies to growers, combined with a dry month.
Support
Support measures are always available to farmers in need. Support available includes:
Local Economy
The monthly inflation series showed the inflation rate was 3.7% in the twelve months to February, a lower rate than in January. The Bank will make its next interest rate decision on 5 May 2026.
Freight and logistics
Freight services are operating normally. Freight costs are increasing to reflect increased fuel prices.
Resources
The National Drought Agreement (NDA) between the Australian, state and territory governments was updated in 2024. It provides
an overarching framework for nationally coordinated drought policy.
a clear pathway for how jurisdictions will work together on drought policies and programs to help farming businesses, farming families and farming communities to manage and prepare for future challenges and risks in a variable and changing climate.
The Tasmanian Drought Framework has been developed on a 'phased approach' to the drought cycle that uses meterological (rainfall), agronomic (production) and socio-economic indicators to determine if an area is moving towards or away from a drought.
Seasonal Conditions and Drought Tasmania -Fact Sheet (PDF 360Kb)
National Drought Agreement (PDF 234Kb)
More information is available through the below links for Seasonal Conditions:
Weathernow Map - Real time weather and climate information tools
Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) - Long-range weather, climate and hydrology
NRE Tas Water Portal - Where all water data including current and historic river flow data is held.
Tasmanian Irrigation Dam Levels - Tasmanian Irrigation has developed a new system that enables reporting on irrigation scheme water storages. This data is updated daily at 00:15 Hrs AEST.
Farming Forecaster - Developed with graziers, Farming Forecaster places soil moisture, local weather, pasture production, and livestock performance information at graziers' fingertips.
Please note: information contained on this webpage provides general information relating to seasonal conditions and the State’s agricultural sector and food production. Its contents are intended for informational purposes only. The Crown in Right of the State of Tasmania, its officers, employees and agents do not accept liability, however arising, including liability for negligence, for any loss arising from the use or reliance upon the content of this document. No liability or responsibility is accepted for the consequences of any inaccuracy in this document, and persons relying upon it do so at their own risk absolutely.
More information
If you have feedback, contact AgriGrowth Tasmania through Farmpoint.