Our 2011 election manifesto - Labour Party

Farming practices
New Zealand farming production relies heavily on urea (nitrogen) and, to a lesser extent,
phosphorus-based fertilisers. This is a key driver of poor water quality. Dependence on
these fertilisers needs to be assessed and high standards of monitoring and efficiency of use
implemented.
Urea can produce toxic nitrate, which can enter waterways and water supplies and affect
water quality, biodiversity and recreational opportunities. This run-off increases algal growth,
choking waterways and further reducing water quality.
To improve water quality, urea dependence must be urgently reduced. Farmers need to be
encouraged to adopt measures as simple as storing effluent and re-spreading it when
conditions allow. Some regional variability in storage requirements is appropriate (e.g. 30
days in drier Canterbury, 90 days in wetter Southland).
Effluent run-off can be addressed by nutrient budgeting, improving the quality of waste
discharges, and fencing stock out of waterways.
Labour will encourage the use of alternatives to urea fertilisers.
Labour will encourage nutrient budgeting and mitigating measures to reduce runoff
and waste.
Labour will encourage farmers to minimise urea use through better storage of effluent
and its reapplication to the land.
Penalties for those who continue persistent point source pollution (i.e. from an identifiable
source) will be reviewed and strengthened. This may include the loss of water rights for
repeat offenders, who cannot expect ongoing access to this precious resource.
Each regional council needs to be able to respond to strong national requirements for
maximum allowable nitrate levels and to require farm management plans that meet these
levels.
Labour will investigate the adequacy of minimum effluent and fertiliser run-off
requirements, and strengthen them as required.
Labour will ensure that farmers and other users who continue point source pollution
will face severe penalties, including loss of water rights.
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