Salmon River levels are critically low due to increasing drought conditions which has put Falkland on heightened water restrictions.

Forage crops have been ordered to stop watering grass for hay, alfalfa and forage corn. The order affects 490 surface-water and groundwater licences and transitioning groundwater users in the Salmon River and Bessette Creek watersheds.

"Irrigation of forage crops is one of the most water-intensive agricultural water uses," the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship said in the Sept. 8 order.

The order is aimed at protecting endangered chinook salmon by helping to restore water-flow levels and protect the salmon run.

"Temporary protection orders are issued as a last resort, recognizing the impact on farmers and ranchers," the ministry said.

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