ORC warns farmers to prepare for low river flow conditions

The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is maintaining its advice to all Otago irrigators to implement conservative irrigation practices despite recent rainfall in parts of Otago.

While some river catchments have benefitted from the rainfall, others have not.
Rivers in North Otago have received a boost and are no longer under severe pressure.

The Taieri River flow has increased marginally, however Central Otago rivers remain low.

ORC manager environmental services manager Martin King said that although heavy rain fell in some areas, it was short-lived and patchy.

“This rainfall has not been widespread enough to reduce the pressure on all rivers throughout the region,” Mr King said.

“A reasonable spell of dry weather still has the potential to quickly reduce many rivers to minimum flow levels.”

“Farmers should continue to manage their irrigation efficiently, and plan ahead in case the need for rationing arises,” he said.

Up-to-date river level and rainfall information is available on the ORC Water Info site (www.water.orc.govt.nz) or by phoning 0800 426 463.

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