DairyNZ says public wanting cleaner water no surprise
The results from the Colmar Brunton survey of the public that showed the public care about waterways is no surprise, and reinforces that all kiwis care deeply about New Zealand.
DairyNZ CE Tim Mackle says we believe so strongly that kiwis care about waterways that we’re starting a movement, where the vision is clear — we want all new Zealanders to do their bit to look after rivers, lakes and beaches and you can find out more at thevisionisclear.co.nz
“Dairy has an important role to play, as about 15 per cent of New Zealand’s streams run through dairy farms,” says Tim.
“And dairy farmers have been doing their bit, with 97 per cent of waterways on a dairy farm fenced off from stock, and significant work to put in riparian margins and wetlands. “Farmers over the last ten years have also been significantly investing in effluent management systems that work with the land and DairyNZ continues to invest millions of dollars into research, science and technology that will look after our waterways.”
He says claims that intensified farming contributes to water quality declines are both accurate and misleading.
“The reality is that all types of land use contribute to water quality — and that farming, whether it’s vegetables, fruit, beef, sheep, dairy, deer or even wine — must all work together to make sure waterways are protected.
“The most polluted rivers actually run through urban centers, and this is where the public can do their bit too.
“Farmers, industry and businesses who don’t prioritise looking after waterways, should be held accountable,” he says.