The ministers were seeking comment on a new and more accurate mapping approach for stock exclusion that better reflected the reality on the ground, as well as on proposals for freshwater farm plans. The consultation period for the issues, which form part of the Essential Freshwater package, runs from July 26 to September 12.
WARWICK SMITH/STUFF
Taihape farmer Daniel Mickleson is concerned that proposed water quality standards could put his farm out of business. Video first published in February 2020. “There are many farmers and growers already committed to practices to improve water quality and it’s vital they have their say and contribute to this consultation,” Connor said.
SunLive - Government consults on freshwater farm plans
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Ute tax final straw for farmers as pressures mount
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Forest & Bird freshwater advocate Annabeth Cohen said all New Zealanders wanted to see their local rivers flourishing with life, “full of native fish and insects, and surrounded by bush and birdsong”. “We urge the Government to accept the scientific consensus that ecosystem health is not possible if nitrate pollution in waterways exceeds 1 milligram per litre. “This is a conservative standard of freshwater quality, despite what the agri-industry would have New Zealand believe.”
RNZ
Environment Minister David Parker told Morning Report there are no plans to immediately reduce the New Zealand standard for nitrates in drinking water . (First published February 23, 2021) Marnie Prickett, of Choose Clean Water, said the groups were united in backing the science, which was clear and robust.