IRRIGATOR Training NEEDS

To kick-off the Irrigation Operator Training: Courses & Resources project, IrrigationNZ and AgITO are holding 3 short workshops (2 hours max) to help better establish Irrigator needs

We are seeking information on the following:

1. What do farm managers and workers need to know in order to manage and operate irrigation systems effectively and efficiently?
2. How do these individuals get the information they require?
3. In an ideal situation, how would they prefer to get the information they require?

Locations of the workshops are:

• Ashburton:        26^th August 2010. 10:30am. Ashburton Hotel
• Oamaru:           27^th August 2010. 10:30am. Kingsgate Hotel Brydone
• Hawkes Bay:      30^th August 2010. 10:30am. The Green Shed Boardroom

The workshops will be independently facilitated with no project team members present...... so this is your chance to come along and voice your thoughts to better focus project outcomes!

MAF Community Irrigation Fund OPEN

The scope of the Community Irrigation Fund has been expanded to fund detailed engineering design work for irrigation schemes that include good environmental standards and processes. Funding covers the design stage up to the completion of the final design report and/or preparation of contract documents for the construction contract.

This is great news for both developing schemes and existing schemes working on upgrade options.

The first funding round for detailed scheme design is now open and will close on 10th September 2010. Applicants will be advised of the result by early October. Another funding round will be run in February 2011.

Further information regarding what can be funded and an application form can found on the Community Irrigation Fund website or by contacting -

Loretta Dobbs - loretta.dobbs@maf.govt.nz; 04 894 0632; 029 894 0632

MAF SuStainable Farming Fund OPEN

The Sustainable Farming Fund is now open - closing date for applications >$25,000 is the 4th October 2010.

Projects applications can include -

• information, knowledge and technology transfer
• technical investigations supporting improved use and allocation of water
• irrigation feasibility studies (with at least 50 percent cash co-funding)

Members thoughts and ideas, with particular regard how we continue to move the NZ irrigation industry proactively forward, always welcome - send to acurtis@irrigationnz.co.nz

IrrigationNZ is already 'working-up' a project on 'Improving Irrigation Performance in Rolling Hill Country' and intends to revisit the 'Understatanding Irrigation Reliability' project.

Dam Safety Scheme Review

IrrigationNZ submission on the Dam Safety Scheme Review

Further information on the Dam Safety Scheme Review (Department of Buidling & Housing)

AGM

The AGM will be held at the Heritage Centre, Methven on the 21st October 2010. As per last year IrrigationNZ will be running a workshop to conincide with the AGM. More details will follow.