Clean Streams Accord is Past Its Use-by Date

“The Dairying and Clean Streams Accord Snapshot of Progress 2008/09 released today paints a grim picture of ‘progress’ and clearly indicates that the Accord is past its use-by date.” said Neil Deans, Resource Management Coordinator, New Zealand Fish & Game Council.

“Compliance with regional council effluent rules and consent condition has actually dropped and other measures of progress have stalled. Targets such as the percentage of farms with a nutrient budget are as meaningless as the percentage of people with diet plans – it’s the day to day action that counts.”

“Fish & Game endorses and supports the broad aims of the accord, and recognise that its key aim was to raise awareness and understanding among the rural community of the adverse environmental effects of poor farming practices. “

“But the issue has moved on significantly since 2003 and the Accord as it stands is now obsolete. The 2008/09 snapshot also underlines the fact that education has not led to significant voluntary change, and those farmers slow to move need more direct incentives. Surely its time for all stakeholders to get around a table and find a way ahead that benefits farmers, the environment and all New Zealanders“

ENDS

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