Need for limits on annual groundwater volumes reaffirmed

Environment Canterbury is reminding consented water users to make sure they are carefully monitoring their use – given the extra irrigation needed because of the ongoing drought conditions across much of Canterbury. Groundwater levels are now very low, particularly in the southern half of the region, where the levels in some wells are at record lows.

“We have been asked by some consent holders whether their annual volume limit can be increased as they realise they are going to run out before the end of the season if rain does not come soon,” said Environment Canterbury Chief Executive Bill Bayfield.

“The answer we have been providing to consent holders is no, as the annual volume on a groundwater take is a condition set when a consent is applied for and granted.

“Consent conditions are written to provide reliable water supply for nine years out of 10. It appears this may be the one season in 10 when farmers have to manage with less water.

“For each groundwater zone in Canterbury, an overall volume limit is set to protect the environment which includes ensuring there is water for Canterbury’s spring-fed streams.

“Individual consent volume limits are designed to provide a fair share of water to consent-holders and are in effect a contract between water users and the community to provide for economic needs while taking into account environmental values.

“While we acknowledge some farmers may be struggling as a result of the drought, other farmers have planned ahead and have destocked or bought in feed in order to cope. We are working with farmers who are genuinely having trouble coping, but we also need to take into account what others have done to manage the situation,” said Mr Bayfield.

Annual volume limits are also set so that what is taken by irrigation in a season can be replaced by winter recharge in a normal year. Last winter there was a particularly good recharge of groundwater levels throughout Canterbury.

“In some areas farmers are working collectively to ensure that water is available to those with the greatest need while staying within overall groundwater volume limits: Environment Canterbury is working with these groups and supports this approach.”

“We are continuing to work with farmers, central government, other councils and industry groups to help farmers cope with the ongoing drought as well as encouraging them to update their systems and practices to ensure efficient and effective water use.”

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