24 January 2013

Reducing water pollution needs more than a silver bullet

Nitrification inhibitors were never the magic bullet to reduce nitrate leaching, the Green Party said today.

This was in response to Ravensdown and Ballance Agri-Nutrients’ decision to voluntarily suspend sales and use of Dicyandiamide (DCD) treatment on farm land until further notice.

“Reducing the pollution load on our rivers, lake and aquifers is a priority. That requires a combination of incentives and stronger regulation, not a silver bullet,” said Green Party water spokesperson Eugenie Sage.

“Improved land use controls including reducing stock numbers where needed, more efficient water use and careful attention to fertiliser application and soil moisture levels are more important to protect water quality.

“Ballance and Ravensdown have been responsible in suspending sales pending further assessment and research.

“Our precious places such as Te Waihora, Lake Ellesmere and the Mackenzie Basin need special care and further agricultural intensification with its associated environmental impacts has no place there.

“This is absolutely not a reason for Regional Councils to change nitrate level targets as Fonterra Shareholders’ Council has suggested,” said Ms Sage.

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