IrrigationNZ is optimistic about the inclusion of community water storage projects in the Regional Infrastructure Fund's grants, recently initiated by the coalition government. Vanessa Winning, the CEO of IrrigationNZ, highlighted the alignment of the fund's objectives with the organization's aim to utilize water for the nourishment of the community, environment, and economy. The necessity for regional water storage was underscored by the previous dry summer, emphasizing the need for both irrigation and community supply enhancements.
Strategic investments in water capture and storage are deemed essential for ensuring resilient supply amidst droughts and climatic events, thus supporting agricultural and regional demands. The Provincial Growth Fund under the previous government facilitated the Waimea and Tai Tokerau water schemes, pointing towards a need for expanded investment in regions with potential for growth yet lacking in reliable water resources.
Shane Jones, the Regional Development Minister, has invited applications for the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) from councils, iwi, businesses, and community organizations working on infrastructure projects that align with regional priorities. The fund aims to support projects that enhance regional resilience and productivity, with an initial allocation of $200 million directed towards flood resilience infrastructure, of which a portion is already earmarked for several projects.
Despite the fund's limited size, Winning emphasizes the importance of improving conditions and consenting processes for water investment, advocating for a revised resource management framework to enable sustainable solutions and greater community involvement. The call to action stresses the need for water investment to support agricultural practices, increase the availability of fruits and vegetables, and boost export earnings through reliable water supply for plant growth and regenerative farming.
Source: farmersweekly.co.nz