7 November 2006
Farmers' 10 in 10 plan a small step in the right direction

Federated Farmers' plan to reduce the environmental impact of nutrient loss from farms by 10 percent in 10 years is a welcome first step, but the results must be measurable the Green Party says.

"While 10 percent over 10 years is a start, much more could be achieved if farmers in catchment areas worked cooperatively," Co-Leader Jeanette Fitzsimons says.

"These groups could work together with local regional councils, who have the skills and equipment to monitor nutrient levels and offer advice on the best steps to take.

"Farmers have a vested interest in doing the best they can to protect the environment, because if we want to continue to sell our meat and dairy overseas, we have to be seen to be leading the world in developing and protecting clean and green production methods.

"With the new international focus on food miles, it is the only way we will be able to compete in a market where environmental impacts are counted.

"I congratulate the farming community for the change in mindset that resulted in the 10 in 10 plan, but the numbers that are important in the end are those that show nutrient levels in waterways are reducing as a result of their efforts," Ms Fitzsimons says.

ENDS

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