Southern NSW farmers were visited by two key water representatives last week, Murray-Darling Basin interim Inspector-General Mick Keelty and independent panelist Merran Kelsall, who are conducting separate reviews of the Murray Darling Basin Plan.

And while Southern Riverina Irrigators said the visit by Mr Keelty meant they have "turned the corner", Murray Irrigation chairman Phil Snowden said the two reviews were "a concern".

"There needs to be a holistic view of the many issues facing the Murray-Darling Basin to ensure there is a full understanding of the significant community, farmer and emotional impacts on local regions," he said.

"Our region provides breakfast, lunch and dinner for this country and for people all around the world.

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"While we still believe there's a strong future in food production, we need to make sure our industry is protected and supported for future farming generations.

"One of the key regional issues is that General Security licences are being seriously impacted by the focus on meeting downstream needs."

SRI chair Chris Brooks said the Deniliquin meeting on Thursday had farmers "hugging each other in tears".

Mr Keelty was appointed by federal Water Minister David Littleproud to inquire into management of water resources under the Murray-Darling Basin Agreement.

"I believe we have turned the corner and the future is looking brighter," Mr Brooks said.

"I am hoping we now get a better and fairer allocation of water in the new irrigation season.

"I saw old timers who I thought had given up the fight, hugging each other in tears, genuinely believing they would live to see things fixed before they die."

Ms Kelsall is a representative working with two other panelists to review the feasibility of returning a further 450GL of water to the environment.

Mr Snowden said despite his concerns the two visits were "fantastic opportunities" to voice the water concerns of the region.

Mr Keelty will host another meeting in Albury in February.