increase font size
Primary Industries Minister David Carter and Environment Minister Amy Adams welcomed the release of the third and final report of the Land and Water Forum (LAWF).
"This report presented to the Government marks the culmination of three years' hard work by LAWF and we thank the members for tackling the tough issues of New Zealand's fresh water management," say Carter and Adams.
"LAWF's work provides a solid foundation from which to progress the Government's strategic direction for water management, with the support of a broad range of stakeholders."
The forum's key recommendations identify how water can be better allocated for high-value use, focus on what councils and communities need to actively manage water quality and call for clearer accountabilities for resource managers and users.
The ministers say they applaud the wide buy-in on fresh water management from such diverse interests, despite a split on some of the recommendations.
"New Zealanders are concerned about a decline in water quality seen in many areas. This creates risks to our biodiversity, our economy, iwi interests and recreation," says Adams.
"LAWF identifies the need for better collaboration, and consideration of the full range of values we hold and what it means to deliver on those values when making decisions around fresh water."
Carter and Adams say they will carefully consider the report's recommendations.
"This work will feed into further progress in the fresh water reform programme, from which we've already seen the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management, the Fresh Start for Freshwater Clean-Up Fund and the Irrigation Acceleration Fund," the ministers say.
See www.landandwater.org.nz for Land and Water Forum report
OPINION: New economic modelling confirms what many of us in Hawke's Bay have long understood - getting water security right for this region is one of the most important decisions we face as a community. Not just for farmers, but for everyone who lives, works and builds a future here.
A drain is sometimes considered a negative word associated with depletion, exhaustion and loss of resources.
Water management is an integral component of sustainable farming practices, according to Watermetrics.
OPINION: The proverbial has really hit the fan in Wellington and exposed a glaring example of a double standard in environmental accountability.
The Commerce Commission has finalised new information disclosure requirements for local councils and water organisations that deliver water supply and wastewater services.
Fonterra has lifted and narrowed its full year forecast earnings range to 60-70 cents per share after a strong quarter, supported by robust milk production, strong shipment volumes and continued demand across its Ingredients and Foodservice businesses.
Fonterra has announced it will continue with the planned expansion of its organic business into the South Island.
New Zealand farmers have been told they all have amazing people on their farms and have been urged to be “that one person” that can make a huge difference to those going through tough times.
OPINION: For thousands of Southland farmers, this week would have tipped them into the non-compliant category when it comes to following regional freshwater plan rules. But the Government has stepped in to give them the clarity they deserve.
The stark realities of the world trade that New Zealand is having to face have been revealed by Trade Minister Todd McClay.
New Zealand and the European Union are closer than ever.
