Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Hope springs funds flow to water projects

Neal Wallace
Regional Infrastructure Fund could help get community storage schemes off the ground, IrrigationNZ says.
Reading Time: 2 minutes

IrrigationNZ is hopeful that community water storage will feature in grants from the coalition government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, which opened this week.

The organisation’s chief executive, Vanessa Winning, said the fund’s stated goal is to look for investment and co-investment projects that support regional priorities, which aligns perfectly with IrrigationNZ’s mission for water to nourish the community, environment and economy.

The past dry summer highlighted the need for regional water storage for both irrigation and community supply and Winning said more is needed in the right places. 

“Investing in strategic water capture and storage ensures a resilient supply during droughts and climatic events, safeguarding agricultural and regional needs.”

The previous government’s Provincial Growth Fund and its fast-track policy assisted the Waimea and Tai Tokerau water schemes.

“It’s time for other parts of the country that have excellent growing conditions but without reliable water, to be part of the reinvestment into regional economics.”

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones said councils, iwi, businesses and community organisations with infrastructure projects that support regional priorities are invited to apply for funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).

The RIF is designed to support projects that regions have identified as being a priority.

The two criteria that must be met are that the infrastructure improves a region’s ability to absorb, adapt and respond to stresses and shocks, and that it supports growth by ensuring regions are well connected and productive.

“We want to invest where it counts. That’s why RIF investments will align with these regional priorities, ensure there is regional co-investment and, where possible, leverage existing regional development investments,” Jones said.

The Budget provided an initial $200 million for flood resilience infrastructure of which up to $101.1m, along with co-investment from recipients, is already committed to 42 flood resilience projects that are ready to start

Winning said although the fund is small, regions are not seeking large grants.

Of greater importance is for all governments to improve conditions and consenting for water investment.

“Investing in multi-generational assets under a 10-year consent is not viable. 

“The Fast Track option provides for immediate relief, but the resource management framework needs updating for sustainable solutions and greater community input,” she said.

The tone of conversation around water investment needs to change.

“To boost fruit and vegetable availability, and export earnings, we must invest in water.

“Reliable water supports plant growth, enables regenerative farming practices, and supports multi-use systems.”

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