Feedback sought on freshwater farm plans and low slope maps for stock exclusion

The Government is inviting farmers, growers and other interested parties to provide their on-the-ground knowledge and practical ideas to ensure high-quality freshwater farm plans protect and improve water quality.

Last updated:

craggy range - craig salmon

The freshwater farm plan system

Freshwater farm plans were introduced last year as part of the Government’s Essential Freshwater package. The package aims to show material improvements to freshwater within five years and restore our waterways to health within a generation.

Freshwater farm plans will provide a practical way for famers to meet the freshwater standards and reduce the regulatory burden. Farmers are encouraged to take the time to understand how the freshwater farm plan system will affect them and get started now on the practical steps they can put in place to make the transition easier.

Find out more about freshwater farm plans

Stock exclusion low slope maps

Feedback is being sought on:

  • a different mapping approach called ‘local terrain averaging’
  • altitude limits and removing tussock and depleted grassland from the map
  • the balance between using the low slope map and freshwater farm plans for identifying areas for stock exclusion.

Find out more on the proposed changes to the low slope map for stock exclusion