The Horowhenua Growers Association says some vegetable growers may go out of business if a proposal to ban new consents for ground water use is ratified.
A study by the Manawatu-Whanganui Regional Council recommends no more consents be granted, to keep water levels sustainable and save the quality of Lake Horowhenua.
The council says Lake Horowhenua will deteriorate if more people use groundwater.
However, the Growers Association says vegetable growers rely heavily on groundwater, especially in summer.
Secretary George Sue says some may go out of business without it.
Regional science manager Jon Roygard says the council will assess new water consent applications on a case by case basis.
