CAN (ON): Participate in developing an irrigation strategy for Niagara

The summer of 2016 was unusually dry across much of the Niagara Region. Prolonged dry conditions highlighted the need for access to irrigation water and the consequences of inadequate irrigation on crop production.

A number of grower organizations, working together with Niagara Region, were approved for a Growing Forward 2 grant to develop an Irrigation Strategy Action Plan for Niagara. The focus of this work is on farmland used for horticultural production, including grapes, tender fruit, nursery and greenhouse production, below the escarpment. The work is important for the future of your farm and your neighbours.

The strategy depends on grower input. Your input is vital in order to develop a series of prioritized short term and long term actions to address the supply and utilization of irrigation water for your crops. The session will focus on defining the need for irrigation water. Even if your farm had sufficient supply of water in 2016, you are invited to participate and share any concerns about the continuity of or access to irrigation water supply in the future.

On Monday, October 30, the Irrigation Strategy Action Plan Steering Committee, is hosting a special session for growers in the cafeteria at Niagara Region Headquarters from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

If you are interested in participating, RSVP to Jeanine West at [email protected] or 1-705-796-8812.

Source: ONfloriculture (Chevonne Carlow)