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IrrigationNZ chief executive Andrew Curtis.
A project presenting new ways to improve water quality in New Zealand rivers opened to the public this month.
IrrigationNZ chief executive Andrew Curtis says the Hinds/Hekeao managed aquifer recharge project will take clean Rangitata River water and put this into the aquifer, helping solve water quality problems and improve stream flows.
"The recharge project in combination with improving farm environmental performance -- through nutrient limits and audited farm environment plans -- will allow waterways in the zone to regenerate and thrive," he says.
Water will come from the Ashburton District Council's stock water allocation via the Rangitata diversion race and Valetta irrigation scheme.
"Managed aquifer recharge is used successfully in the US and Europe to replenish aquifers for domestic and agriculture water supply, and for ecological purposes. This project is a first for NZ; a successful trial would mean other catchments could also benefit from similar projects.
"It is clear the public wants improved water quality in lakes and rivers. This is a great example of the local community coming together to make positive change.
"Politicians have called for a national approach to managing water quality, but there are many variables and complex issues. We need to be creative, innovative and work together to meet stated community needs."
IrrigationNZ submitted a briefing last month to the new Government this week on how water capture, storage, and efficient use can grow economic prosperity, support New Zealand's exports, and ensure long term regional resilience. Here's part of what Vanessa Winning, chief executive of IrrigationNZ, said:
IrrigationNZ has released its election manifesto, calling for policies that secure water for growing food.
The first two bills in the RMA reform package simply are not good enough.
IrrigationNZ says zero carbon targets can't be met without investment in water infrastructure.
IrrigationNZ has submitted feedback on the Water Services Bill this week to seek protection of small drinking water users in rural areas.
South Waikato farm manager Ben Purua’s amazing transformation from gang life to milking cows was rewarded with the Ahuwhenua Young Maori Farmer award last night.
Bankers have been making record profits in the last few years, but those aren’t the only records they’ve been breaking, says Federated Farmers vice president Richard McIntyre.
The 2023-24 season has been a roller coaster ride for Waikato dairy farmers, according to Federated Farmers dairy section chair, Mathew Zonderop.
Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) director general Ray Smith says job cuts announced this morning will not impact the way the Ministry is organised or merge business units.
Scales Corporation is acquiring a number of orchard assets from Bostock Group.
Family and solidarity shone through at the 75 years of Ferdon sale in Otorohanga last month.
