Wells’ water low already

Press, 5 October 1985, Page 2

Wells’ water low already

Fanners throughout most of Canterbury’s central plains will face well water supply problems this summer, says the North Canterbury Catchment Board’s group leader in groundwater, Mr John Talbot This included Kirwee fanners who drew water from a deeper supply than elsewhere in the area, Mr Talbot told a meeting of the board yesterday. “Away from the Eyre and Selwyn rivers groundwater levels are lower this spring than they were in autumn,” he said. Farmers would have to work within supply limits. “This analysis is based on our annual report on 700 Canterbury wells measured this week. “Water supply to Christchurch residents this summer will be limited by the abstraction capacity of local authorities and not by a limited artesian supply,” Mr Talbot said. Plant loan At a short special meeting, the board endorsed a proposed plant and equipment purchases and replacement loan for next year, subject to Government approval. To repay the $250,000 loan the board will charge ratepayers an extra 1.5 per cent on their rates. The board will consider another $250,000 loan within the next three years.