23 April 2013
Media Statement
Drought status likely to remain until September
Recent rainfall has been welcomed by farmers but the problems created by the dry summer will be felt for some time, says
Minister for Primary Industries Nathan Guy.
“The dry conditions may have ended in many parts of the country but there are still major challenges ahead. It will take
time to build up enough grass cover to provide feed for winter.
“There’s no doubt the rain over the last week has been a real boost, especially for those in areas that have missed out
before like the central North Island.
“However it’s very important that farmers plan ahead for how they will manage their feed supply through the rest of the
year. A large amount of supplementary feed has already been used over summer and will be in short supply later this
year.
“The impact of the drought makes the work of Rural Support Trusts very important in providing support and advice.
“For these reasons, it is unlikely I will be formally lifting the official drought status before it expires at the end
of September. The rain may be falling but the effects on rural communities will be felt for some time,” says Mr Guy.
Regularly updated drought information is available at:
http://www.mpi.govt.nz/environment-natural-resources/funding-programmes/primary-sector-recovery/droughts/dry-conditions-2012-13-faqs
ends