Rivers and streams: implementation guidance on Essential Freshwater policies and regulations
Guidance for councils, farmers and farm advisors on restoring and protecting rivers and streams.
What’s happening
From 2020 regulations apply to:
- reclaiming and maintaining rivers
- new culverts and weirs
- new instream structures
There are also sphagnum moss harvesting conditions. Sustainable sphagnum moss harvesting is permitted under certain conditions.
The regulations do not apply to existing structures prior to September 2020 or customary weirs.
Why the regulations are needed
The regulations are to prevent the loss of river extent, water quality and wetlands, and limit river reclamation.
What you may need to do
If you:
- have rivers, streams or wetlands on your property find out what you are required to do under the regulations.
- are doing any work on a river or stream, find out what is needed to ensure fish passage is not impeded. For more information see the Fish passage webpage.
- are planning new structures that could block or impede fish passage you are required to consult your regional council.
For more on environmental matters that affect farming communities see the Rural hub
The following polcies and regulations include provisions to help restore and protect the health of rivers and streams:
Includes an overview of the new regulations related to rivers.
View the webinar presentation [PDF, 7.7 MB]