Building trust
OPINION: The war of words between Southland farmers and Environment Southland over winter grazing inspections reflects a deep lack of trust among farmers for the regional council.
In an advisory for farmers, the Feds says Fonterra is checking on farm access for milk tankers.
It reminds farmers that the regional council wants any dumped milk to go on land, not into water.
“The regional council has given approval for stock to go into waterways for drinking if stockwater reticulation is damaged.”
Farmers around the upper Clarence and Conway Rivers, farmers are being advised to adhere to instructions from Civil Defence and the NZ Police.
“Stopbanks and other flood protection infrastructure may be damaged; and farmers need to be vigilant especially with heavy rainfall forecasted.
“Community and stockwater schemes will be progressively restored as power becomes available – then report breakages and leaks to the District Council.
“As a precaution boil all drinking water.”
Federated Farmers is the primary point of contact for farmers who want to request or offer assistance – ring 0800 FARMING
