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PEI Farmers Dig Deeper for Water Amid Drought Fears
7 Apr
Summary
- Many PEI farmers are increasing groundwater use for irrigation.
- This year, 140+ applications for exploration permits were received.
- Provincial officials state drought conditions are unlikely to repeat.
Farmers on Prince Edward Island are increasing their reliance on groundwater for crop irrigation this season, spurred by concerns following last summer's drought. Becky Townshend, a potato farmer, has received approval for a high-capacity well that will allow her to irrigate 28 of her farm's 90 hectares. This year, the province received over 140 applications for groundwater exploration permits, a substantial increase from the usual 20 to 30.
Provincial officials emphasize that despite the heightened interest in irrigation, significant drought conditions like those experienced last summer are infrequent, estimated to occur once every 20 years. Groundwater levels have reportedly recovered due to ample winter snow. The province manages water resources through a two-step permitting process, requiring exploration permits and water withdrawal permits for large users, ensuring sustainable use and protection of drinking water.
While the number of approved high-capacity wells is monitored under the Water Act, officials confirm that even with all wells in use, they would not deplete the Island's entire groundwater supply. Farmers like Townshend view supplementary irrigation as a risk-reduction strategy, providing crucial assurance for crop sustainability rather than chasing record yields.
