The Otago Regional Council (ORC) undertakes flights every year to gain a bird’s eye view on land use in the region and identify water quality risks, and this year it will be stepping up its monitoring.

ORC compliance manager Tami Sargeant said flyovers would begin this week, and it is as important as ever to prioritise good practice

“It is crucial that winter grazing practices are undertaken with consideration for the environment,” she said.

“Good management practices, like leaving a buffer zone between stock and waterways, are important for preventing sediment loss and protecting our rivers and streams.”

After the flights, ORC staff will follow up on any issues identified from the air, Tami said.

“We’ll be taking note of any high-risk sites and visiting the area to inspect issues on the ground. Possible responses to non-compliance range from education and advice, through to enforcement notices and prosecution.”

While the government has deferred introducing some of the new regulations around intensive winter grazing, rules preventing the expansion of intensive winter grazing still apply, and ministers David Parker and Damian O’Connor have set expectations for measurable improvements in winter grazing practices over the next 12 months.

If you’d like advice about winter grazing, contact the ORC Rural Liaison Team on 0800 474 082 or email [email protected].

Anyone who sees pollution of a waterway is encouraged to call our 24/7 pollution hotline on 0800 800 033.

People can also raise concerns about winter grazing practices through Federated Farmers’ Early Intervention programme, by calling 0800 FARMING (0800 327 646).

PHOTO: Supplied