More farmers in Prince Edward Island are gaining access to groundwater for irrigation this year, with provincial officials reassured that a recurrence of last summer’s drought is unlikely. Becky Townshend, a potato farmer in Rollo Bay West, is preparing to install approximately 1.5 kilometers of irrigation pipes on her farm for the upcoming season. She recently secured approval for a high-capacity well, enabling her to utilize groundwater to irrigate around 28 hectares of her 90-hectare farm.
Reflecting on the past seasons, Townshend emphasized the necessity of supplementary irrigation to enhance sustainability and resilience during dry conditions. Following a dry summer in 2025, the provincial government has observed a surge in applications for irrigation wells as farmers strive to ensure adequate water supply for their crops. The Department of Land and Environment in P.E.I. reported receiving over 140 applications for groundwater exploration permits this year, a significant increase compared to the average of 20 to 30 applications in most years.
To drill a high-capacity well, farmers must adhere to regulations outlined in P.E.I.’s Water Act to safeguard the province’s water resources. The process involves obtaining a groundwater exploration permit, which requires a $50 fee and entails drilling a test well to assess water volume and quality. Subsequently, a water withdrawal permit is necessary for larger water users requiring over 25 cubic meters daily.
Prior to last year’s drought, the province had approximately 60 high-capacity wells in use for agricultural purposes. Qing Li, a hydrogeologist with P.E.I.’s Department of Land and Environment, emphasized that the number of approved permits is closely monitored under strict conditions to prevent overexploitation of groundwater resources. Li reassured that the province’s groundwater levels have been replenishing annually, partly due to sufficient snowfall during winter months. Despite the challenges faced in 2025, Li stated that such severe drought events occur infrequently, emphasizing the sustainability of water usage in the region.
While some farmers, like Townshend, remain cautious about crop risks, the implementation of supplementary irrigation systems offers a sense of security. Townshend shared her experience of a reduced yield by 25% last year, coupled with increased farm operating costs. Looking ahead, she anticipates the ability to irrigate a portion of her crop this season, providing a safety net against potential dry conditions. The focus remains on mitigating risks and ensuring farm sustainability rather than aiming for record yields.