‘Farmers understand need to improve water quality’

Speaking at the launch of freshwater proposals yesterday, he said farmers want to leave the environment in a better state than they found they found it.

"Farmers recognise the importance of our freshwater resource and understand there will be costs; and they have shown they want to work constructively," he says.

"We've seen huge progress over the last 10 years. Farmers are fencing their waterways, they are doing riparian planting, and we have the Sustainable Dairying: Water Accord. All of these things are voluntary – with farmers showing leadership."

Guy says to improve our water quality it will be important for everyone - including urban, hydro generation, industry, recreation and all primary sectors users- to shoulder the burden.

He says the primary sector needs reasonable timeframes to adjust, good decision making including robust science and economic information, guidance on how to manage to limits; and new technologies to help make water quality improvements.

"The Government will work with councils and communities on these proposed changes, including guidance and support with good management practice and new technologies as they become available.

"The framework will also be underpinned by good information that supports regional decision-making, including the environmental, social and economic impacts of any proposed objectives and limits.

"Where costs of meeting national bottom lines may be high, council will have the discretion to set suitable timeframes that give businesses and communities time to adjust without undue hardship. This flexibility will be on a case by case basis."