Displaying items by tag: freshwater

Dairy farmers want the Government to move swiftly to extend the six-week timeframe of the Essential Freshwater consultation.

OPINION: New Zealanders like their rivers to be clear, to be able to see through the water to the bottom — but this is not always possible.

Federated Farmers says it didn’t have a say in a new plan on water quality, even though farmers are expected to bear the brunt of the proposal.

Sheep and beef farmers are unhappy with the Government’s proposals to improve freshwater quality around the country.

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle says the dairy sector and our farmers share the same vision communities, Māori and Government have to protect and improve our freshwater resources.

The Government says it is taking action to stop the degradation of waterways and clean up rivers and lakes within a generation.

Simply keeping stock out of waterways arguably gives the “best bang for your buck” for water quality improvements, says DairyNZ Environment and catchment manager Aslan Wright-Stow.

Fences prevent stock from entering and dirtying the water, and plants growing behind the fences stabilise stream banks and block the movement of particles from land into streams.

Fonterra is backing a farmer-led project to protect water quality in Bay of Plenty lakes.

Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta outlines the Government’s moves to ensure safe drinking water and to reduce environmental damage from poorly treated wastewater.