The government says the proposed Waimea Community Dam near Nelson would deliver major economic benefits through the potential to double annual profits from the catchment.
A dry Waimea River by the Appleby Bridge. Photo: Tasman District Council
Primary Industries Minister Nathan Guy is in Nelson today to deliver a report on freshwater management on the Waimea Plains.
He said the report showed building the dam would secure the area's water supply and increase profits from $14.5 million annually, to nearer $30m.
The Tasman District Council allocated $25m in this year's long term plan to the expected $80m project, which has drawn criticism from other water users and rate payers.