Regulations previously required farmers in Southland to prepare and submit a farm plan to Environment Southland by May 27, but a government announcement last night extended the deadline to the end of November 2027.
Federated Farmers vice-president and freshwater spokesman Colin Hurst said the announcement ‘‘made sense’’, as the government was set to announce changes to national farming plans shortly.
‘‘It’s not about kicking the can down the road on this.
‘‘The approach makes complete sense and with a bit of luck we’ll have the new RMA in place by the end so they’ll get some consistency around the country as well.’’
Agriculture Minister Todd McLay said the extension would benefit about 2500 Southland farmers.
‘‘This sensible decision will ensure what Southlanders need to do is aligned with the requirements for farmers in other regions as the new system comes into effect — giving them confidence to continue to produce high-quality food and fibre.’’
Associate Environment Minister Andrew Hoggard reiterated the change applied only in Southland.
‘‘The extra time will mean that national and regional farm planning systems are well aligned to avoid duplication and unnecessary cost for farmers.
‘‘The improvements to the system, while supporting effective freshwater management will clarify what farming activities will need a certified farm plan along with simplifying parts of the farm plan such as land blocking and mapping.’’
But Greenpeace were concerned the extension would lead to poor environmental outcomes.
Greenpeace freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe said several rural communities were already at risk.
‘‘Lumsden’s public drinking water supply has reached nitrate levels associated with an increased risk of pre-term birth.
‘‘We urgently need to regulate the intensive dairy industry to prevent further degradation of lakes, rivers and drinking water in Southland.’’
Environment Southland is expected to comment today.
