Ashburton District Council is seeking co-operation from landowners to ensure irrigators are not spraying water onto adjacent roads as the spring growing season gets under way in Mid Canterbury.

Infrastructure Services Group Manager Neil McCann said water was a key factor in the deterioration of roads.

“Water in the pavement plays a large role in the formation of potholes and development of failures. We are already working to fix a lot of potholes on our network, and we can do without having to deal with extra damage caused by water from irrigators.”

Council has noted several sites over the past few weeks where irrigators are spraying water onto roads.

Mr McCann said irrigation onto roads was not only a waste of water but also had the potential to create safety issues for motorists, as an unexpected spray of water can surprise drivers and motorcyclists, and the sudden wet surface can be a hazard.

“Consent holders are responsible for the use of water that is applied and while it can be difficult on windy days, irrigators must operate within the conditions of their consent. Irrigators need to have end guns set and operating correctly, be regularly checked, and travelling irrigators set up away from roads.”

Warnings will be given to property owners where irrigation is reported on roads and repeat offenders can be fined $500. The cost of repairs to damaged roads can also be passed on to offenders.

Co-operation of landowners would be much appreciated.