The Amuri Basin: The social, economic and environmental impact of large scale irrigation (1975-2005) - a review: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for a Degree of Master of Professional Studies at Lincoln University

Abstract

The objective of this dissertation is to record and comment on the changes wrought by the construction and operation of a large scale community irrigation scheme in the Amuri basin of North Canterbury. The increasing value of and competition for scarce irrigation water requires a clear view of the impact of irrigation measured against the triple criteria of environmental, social and economic impact. The Amuri Irrigation Scheme has been operating for over 25 years and despite a turbulent progress to irrigator ownership in the late 1980' s, now operates very successfully with significant changes to the district.