1 March 2018

Time running out to get a Farm Plan in the Tukituki Catchment

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council is organising a series of workshops and information sessions for farmers in the Tukituki Catchment who need to get a Farm Environment Management Plan in place before the end of May.

Under the Tukituki Plan everyone who owns 10 or more hectares in the Tukituki Catchment needs a farm plan done. Some people who own 4-10ha will also need one, unless they are considered a ‘low intensity’ farming operation.

HBRC has organised a range of workshops and information sessions, aimed at those with 4-40 hectares to help them on the road to a farm plan and ensure they are meeting the requirements under the Tukituki Plan.

There are a series of three different events being organised throughout March, April and May. They are being held at HBRC’s Waipawa office, 26 Ruataniwha Street, Waipawa:

Information sessions (March 15 & 27, April 15 & 26 & May 8)

These sessions will provide an overview of the Tukituki Plan, clarify landowner requirements, and guide people towards getting a farm plan. These sessions are for those with 4-40ha in the Tukituki Catchment.

Small Block Workshops (March 18, April 3, 15 & 28, May 15)

Attendees at these workshops will start a farm plan, understand their environmental risks, and have a reduced farm plan cost. This workshop is for those who know they need a farm plan and have 4-40 ha.

Drop-in Sessions (March 2, April 6, & May 4)

Drop in sessions will offer advice on what’s required to ensure all landowners comply with the Tukituki Plan and offer information on where they can get any assistance they need.

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Land Management Team Leader Brendan Powell, says time is running out for landowners to get their FEMPs.

“These sessions are the perfect opportunity for those with blocks of 4 to 40 hectares in the Tukituki Catchment to find out what is required under the Tukituki Plan and to start work on their farm plan,”

“There is no time to delay now as everyone needing a farm plan must have them in place by the end of May.”

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Group Manager- Regulation Liz Lambert say anyone who doesn’t have a Farm Plan by 31 May 2018 will be required to get a resource consent from the regional council to continue farming.

“One of the conditions of the resource consent, if it is granted, will be to have a Farm Plan in place. So to avoid more onerous conditions, or legal action for enforcement, landowners need to get their Farm Plan now,” says Mrs Lambert.

To register for one of the sessions call 027 572 4330 or email tukituki@hbrc.govt.nz

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