Forum seeks changes
The Land and Water Forum wants a new national body to oversee freshwater management to prevent the decline of wetlands and ‘outstanding water bodies’. Forum chair Dr Hugh Logan said, “A motivated effort at a national level is required to improve water quality. It will require better coordination and deployment of resources, which we believe should be delivered through a new Land and Water Commission.”
In its report, commissioned by the Government, the forum said the Resource Management Act should be stronger to prevent decline of wetlands.
Environment Minister David Parker said some, but not all, of the forum’s recommendations would be adopted. Suggested changes to the RMA were not likely to be introduced to Parliament this year, he said.