Farmers have only weeks to wait to learn the extent of a Waikato Regional Council water quality plan change on their operations.

As they wait for the final version of Plan Change One to fall out of the Environment Court process, following appeals from key primary industry players, council chair Pamela Storey and Federated Farmers Waikato president Keith Holmes are recommending the industry be prepared for change.

The Environment Court is expected to release its decision on Plan Change One before the end of March after the regional council was challenged by key primary industry players.

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There were sighs of relief when the Government paused the rollout of freshwater farm plans last September, with Ministers stating the current model was too costly and not fit-for-purpose. 

While Federated Farmers applauded that move, that’s not to say we don’t believe in the freshwater farm plan concept. 

In fact, in an era where freshwater quality is under increasing scrutiny, and the role of farmers as stewards of the land has never been more critical, they have real potential. 

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New Zealand’s ability to provide fresh, healthy vegetables for future generations is at risk unless the Government makes growing them a permitted activity.

“Without urgent changes in resource management reform, we risk losing a significant portion of our homegrown food supply by 2030,” says Michelle Sands, Horticulture New Zealand (HortNZ) general manager strategy and policy.

“Our country’s food security and access to fresh, nutritious vegetables are on the line. Without immediate action, the risk of shortages and rising prices will become a harsh reality for Kiwi families.

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