People in Wairarapa where major dams are being proposed say they're living in limbo while they wait to hear if the projects are approved.
Wellington Regional Council has announced two irrigation options are being considered.
Eighteen land owners at Black Creek, and 11 at Tividale, would likely lose their properties.
But that would not be known for 18 months, as a feasibility study was underway.
Landowner Mike Fairburn said it would leave his renovation plans hanging, because there's no point in spending money on a property that could be destroyed by a lake.
Federated Farmers said while dams were needed, it would not be easy for some farmers to simply up and move.