Any land manager has a huge interest in water. Whether it is drainage, flooding, irrigation, or for stock and machinery plant use, water always plays a significant role throughout the farming season. The old adage without water we die is certainly true on a farm. However, competing users of water have created an environment where regulators have become involved. Decisions by central and local government now have the potential to seriously impact on farm operations. Competing interests of urban supply, recreation requirements, and the increasing needs of productive industries has meant water has become a controversial topic.

 

We have issues regarding water quality as well as supply and for many, historically utilising this resource for free, the perceived right has come to an end with water now seen as having value and therefore a price.

 

Farmers of New Zealand actively engages the authorities over both water quality and allocation of supply. We need to ensure costs of compliance are kept to a minimum and water does not become a limiting factor in improving farm productivity. We take an active interest in all water quality issues. In many areas water is perceived to be in short supply when its not, and quality issues are blamed on farm operations when there are many other factors often involved.

Historically, traditional farming has contributed to nutrient enrichment problems and water quality issues but the industry today is much more aware of the potential problems it can cause and how to deal with them. These days most farmers recognise their responsibilities and act accordingly. Unfortunately a small minority still do not fully comprehend the downstream effects of poor farming practice. We have a role in both working with authorities to protect farmers interests but also to educate farmers of their responsibilities ensuring we manage and improve our sustainable environment. 

 

We actively represent farmer groups on both water allocation and water drainage issues developing constructive partnerships between competing groups of users and the authorities. We do not just advocate at the policy level but often put our gumboots on and sort issues out on the farm.

 

BACK