University of Waikato research reveals 2050 drought threats
New research could help farmers prepare for a future where summer rainfall is increasingly unpredictable and where drought risk is rising, no matter what.
The Northland Regional Council is getting $12m for the Northland Water Storage and Use Project and Kaipara District Council $745,000 for Kai for Kaipara Water project.
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says water is critical for Northland’s economy and wellbeing but is increasingly under threat from floods and drought, declining rainfall and river flows and rising temperatures.
“There are also increased demands on water resources from a growing population and economy.
“We are providing up to $12.7m through the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) to ensure the region has a reliable water supply which can be used to develop underutilised land, grow new markets, create jobs and put more money into the local economy,” Peters said.
Last week Minister for Primary Industries Damien O’Connor visited Northland farmers reeling from weeks of dry weather.
Parts of the region are facing extreme heat and poor grass growth, forcing dairy some farmers to dry off cows early.
