The joint initiative by the NSW and Victorian governments to restore flows to the Snowy River while safeguarding the interests of irrigators has been welcomed by Charles Sturt University's new Professor of Irrigation.

Professor Graeme Batten, who recently took up his role at the Wagga Wagga Campus, said the approach demonstrated much needed cooperation between conservationists and irrigators.

He predicts the outcome would be more effective progress towards both sustainable irrigation and a healthy environment.

"It is important that the two State governments, who set up the goal, put up funds to return flows to the Snowy River without imposing on irrigators who have had allocations reduced in recent years," he said.

Professor Batten said last Friday's announcement would result in water savings in the major supply system.

"This will leave irrigators to address water use efficiency on their own properties.

"At the same time, irrigators must continue to address acidity and salinity, which are major threats to their sustainability," he added.

Professor Batten said the most encouraging aspect of the statement was that it should now be easier for irrigators and conservationists to work together.