increase font size
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."
Winter grazing is looming again and the Ministry for Primary Industries says it's going to increase proactive farm visits and provide practical advice for farmers in the lead up to the season.
Irrigation New Zealand chief executive Vanessa Winning is stepping down after four years in the role.
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.
Dawn Meats is set to increase its proposed investment in Alliance Group by up to $25 million following stronger than forecast year-end results by Alliance.
A day after the ouster of PGG Wrightson’s chair and his deputy, the listed rural trader’s board has appointed John Nichol as the new independent chair.
Tributes are pouring in from across the political divide for former Prime Minister Jim Bolger who passed away, aged 90.
The iconic services building at National Fieldays' Mystery Creek site will be demolished to make way for a "contemporary replacement that better serves the needs of both the community and event organisers," says board chair Jenni Vernon.
Agri advisor Perrin Ag says its graduate recruitment programme continues to bring new talent into the agricultural sector.
Entries are open for the 2026 New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards (NZDIA).
OPINION: Voting is underway for Fonterra’s divestment proposal, with shareholders deciding whether or not sell its consumer brands business.
OPINION: Politicians and Wellington bureaucrats should take a leaf out of the book of Canterbury District Police Commander Superintendent Tony Hill.
