New Freshwater Farm Plan Law Eases Regulations for Farmers

Recent legislative changes aim to simplify freshwater management for farmers in New Zealand. The new rules, enacted under the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act, transfer the responsibility for auditing and certifying freshwater farm plans from regional councils to approved industry organizations. This shift is designed to reduce duplication for farmers already participating in assurance programs such as NZGAP or Fonterra’s Tiaki.

Under the revised regulations, only farms that are 50 hectares or larger will be required to maintain a freshwater plan, an increase from the previous threshold of 20 hectares. This change effectively removes the compliance requirement for approximately 8,000 small, low-risk farms, making the regulations more manageable for those producers.

Government Officials Emphasize Practicality

The reforms are framed as both affordable and practical, with a focus on environmental protection. Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard stated, “These changes are about making farm plans workable and affordable so farmers can get on and farm without unnecessary red tape.” Similarly, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay highlighted the substantial efforts already being made by farmers in freshwater management, asserting, “Our job is to make sure the rules are practical, efficient and fit for purpose so the sector can continue to lead the world.”

This announcement follows a recent decision that grants rural and commercial water users a minimum of five years to manage changes to their water consents. Legislation passed in October 2023 prohibits regional councils from notifying freshwater planning measures until a new National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management is in place or until December 31, 2025, whichever comes first.

Collaborative Approach to Water Management

In response to the recognition that key issues would not be resolved swiftly, the Otago Regional Council (ORC) collaborated with the government to provide clarity and avoid further complex processes for Otago water users. The legislative amendment overrides certain discharge provisions of the existing regional plan and extends the expiration date of most current short-term water permits by an additional five years, contingent upon their expiration occurring after a new plan is implemented.

Councillor Lloyd McCall of the ORC noted that farmers appreciate the assurance of long-term security during this grace period. He expressed optimism that a practical water-use system would be developed in consultation with all stakeholders during this timeframe.

Feedback from the agricultural community underscores the importance of streamlined processes. Luke Kane, president of Federated Farmers Otago and a beef and dairy farmer, welcomed the collaboration between the ORC and central government. He remarked, “The number of times we have to enter data for different forms of compliance is beyond a joke, so I welcome one central place and format.” Kane emphasized that plans should be tailored at the farm level by those who manage them.

As these changes take effect, the agricultural sector in New Zealand anticipates a more efficient framework for managing freshwater resources, allowing farmers to focus on production while ensuring environmental stewardship.