Photo: Si WilliamsLong-awaited changes to freshwater rules will be announced by Prime Minister Bill English today, and could require rivers and streams to be cleaned up across the country. There is speculation that the National-led Government will lift the minimum standard for freshwater quality, but not to the "swimmable" standard environmental groups have been lobbying for. Any change in water standards will still be significant because it will likely affect farmers - National's core voting base - in an election year. The Government's National Policy Statement on freshwater requires regional councils to ensure rivers and streams are safe for wading and boating. He said raising water standards could require farmers to reduce stock, fence off waterways and reduce nitrogen and phosphorus run-off.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 22, 2017 20:00 UTC