Freshwater Farm Plan Regulations: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how the Freshwater Farm Plan Regulations work for farmers in high-risk catchments and the costs involved in managing water impacts.
These regulations require certain farming operations to create a structured plan to manage how their activities impact local freshwater.
Who it's for
This applies to farmers located within high-risk catchments, which are specific areas identified as needing extra protection for water quality.
What you get
You receive a formal framework to help you manage the environmental impacts of your farming activities on local water systems. This provides a clear structure for catchment management to help ensure your land meets environmental standards.
What it costs you
You will need to cover the costs associated with hiring professionals to develop your plan and the fees required to get it officially certified.
The catch to know
A plan cannot simply be written by the landowner; it must be certified by a qualified farm environment planner to be valid.
How to apply
- Determine if your land is located within a high-risk catchment.
- Consult with a qualified farm environment planner to develop your specific plan.
- Submit your plan for formal certification.
- Review the full requirements on the official portal: https://environment.govt.nz