Our sector is committed to improving our waterways and sheep and beef farmers have done a huge amount of work to protect and enhance freshwater health. We work to help farmers achieve positive outcomes and we advocate for practical and workable rules. Find out more about our work in this area.
Freshwater
National bottom lines
While we need to manage the impacts of farming activities on freshwater quality, including sediment and E. coli, the way this is currently being done has significant issues and will have massive implications for our sector.
Essential Freshwater consultation
This page contains key information about the Ministry for the Environment’s consultation on its essential freshwater reforms.
Additional freshwater consultations
This page contains information about consultations, announced by the Government in July and August 2021, as part of the Essential Freshwater work programme.
Consultation on proposed changes to the low-slope map for stock exclusion (June–July 2023)
The Government proposed amendments to the stock exclusion regulations, in response to feedback from B+LNZ, farmers and others in the sector.