Alan Law - Accord Signing BOP
Released 16 Jun 2008
Bay of Plenty President
Speaking at the signing of the Clean Streams Accord
Federated Farmers is pleased to be part this formal signing today.
We have worked closely for many years with Environment BOP to develop some positive environmental outcomes. We, as farmers in this region, have long held the view that we have a responsibility to ensure that waterways and the land in general is not polluted by our operations.
We like to fish and swim in waterways so we have vested interest in ensuring that these are clean. Although this is the last of these accords to be signed, it doesn't mean that we as local farmers have been dragging the chain. Dairy cows are seen by many environmentalists as the demons of the environment, but interestingly enough a five year study by Lincoln University in Southland has shown that the impacts of dairying are not different to any other farming type. If anything dairy farmers have done more to protect waterways than other land-users.
Before Fonterra came up with the ‘clean streams' concept local farmer had developed a relationship with Environment BOP and have worked with councillors and staff to set some environmental targets.
The Fonterra approach added impetus to our initiatives and it's great to see all three parties here today celebrating in this official signing of the accord.
The signing of the accord sends a clear message to the rest of the community that the farming sector is committed and united its approach to developing positive environmental outcomes. At a national level, Federated Farmers is showing leadership in this area and has made a commitment to working positively with environmental interest groups.
Our farms are our homes, our businesses our lifestyle of choice and our future. We seek to improve these in a positive and sustainable way. The clean steams accord cements in place our commitments.
The agriculture industry in New Zealand has a long proud history of innovation and a reputation of introducing new technology and this will continue with sound environmental management practices as this accord covers.
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