Federated Farmers says cases of excess water being taken by farmers in Hawke's Bay could decrease if more water storage systems are put in place.
Hawke's Bay Regional Council recorded at least 18 irrigators exceeding their water usage consents in December while the region had low river levels.
Federated Farmers national president Bruce Wills says the breaches highlight the need to store more water when there is heavy rain.
He says places like Hawke's Bay see plenty of rain in winter but farmers really need it in summer.
Mr Wills says plans to build a dam in central Hawke's Bay are a step in the right direction.
