PEI Potato Industry says high-capacity irrigation wells needed

Two of the most powerful voices in P.E.I.s billion dollar potato industry appeared before the Legislature's agriculture committee Thursday in Charlottetown.

They called for a lifting of the moratorium on high capacity agricultural wells in the province.

Irving-owned Cavendish Farms, and the P.E.I. Potato Board said it's the only way for potato farmers to stay competitive.

Cavendish Farms president Robert Irving said lower yields resulting from a lack of irrigation is costing growers $400 to $600 per acre.

“With no irrigation at times we have a lack, there's a lack of quality, lower yields in the fields, and it's costing us too much to remain competitive on the Island,” he said. He also warned that the future of Cavendish Farms and its 700 full-time employees is in the balance.

The P.E.I. Potato Board backed up Cavendish Farms and said irrigation would ensure the viability of the potato industry for the province.