Farmers will meet with Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) officials early next week to discuss the situation in Maniototo as dry conditions persist.

The result of the meeting could be a declaration of drought conditions which would escalate the situation, allowing stricken farmers access to much-needed support. 

According to Otago Federated Farmers president Mark Patterson, a declaration of a drought looks more and more likely with each day that passes. 

There is already restricted water use in the district, with a stop on taking water from the Taieri River and other waterways soon to reach critical limits if rain fails to come. 

Federated Farmers is lobbying the Otago Regional Council (OCR) on behalf of farmers who rely on river water for their daily household needs.

“We’re encouraging them [ORC] to be as liberal as they can in allowing ongoing water takes, that houses are on those rural schemes as well. It’s just not tenable to stop all water,” Mark said.

“If the required rain does not fall, it starts to get to the next level. It doesn’t matter how good a farmer you are. You’re going to feel the impact.

“Farmers will get rid of surplus stock as soon as possible provided there are no problems with processing capacity at the meatworks.” 

Ideally, the district needs 50 to 75 mls of slow, steady rain, then a follow-up rain of an equivalent amount in a couple of weeks to get back on the front foot. 

If the rain stays away, the long-term outlook is not good.

“It will be challenging if we don’t get the autumn rains. Farmers need the feed this rain provides to get through the winter,” Mark said. 

“While a drought declaration is not substantive regarding any financial relief, it sends an important signal that it’s a serious event that farmers have on their hands.” 

PHOTO: The Central App