AS the National Agriculture Show begins in Labasa today, farmers are facing difficulties keeping their livestock supplied with water during the dry weather.
Korovatu resident Rup Ram said farmers were struggling to find enough water for cattle and goats, with some having to move their animals to areas where water was still available.
“We have a few places where there is water,” he said.
Mr Ram said some farmers who were not planting rice were allowing livestock to be taken to those areas during the dry season.
The lack of water has made caring for livestock more difficult, with some animals forced to drink salty water.
“There is water, but it is salty. We have no other options but to give these cattle water.”
He said the dry conditions had also affected crops, with rice drying up and production declining.
Farmers are calling on the Government to provide a permanent water supply to Korovatu, including extending water mains to the community.
“The Government needs to supply water. Water is the big problem in Korovatu.”
Mr Ram said the water shortage was a long-standing problem and became particularly difficult during dry periods.supply water. Water is the big problem in Korovatu.”
Mr Ram said the water shortage was a long-standing problem and became particularly difficult during dry periods.
