What Can You Do?
The way the land is managed within a catchment ultimately determines the quality of the water in that catchment. Also, the water quality at an upstream location impacts on water quality downstream. It is therefore essential that community members work together to achieve improved water quality. The effectiveness of the Living Streams programme and improvements in water quality are dependent on everyone committing to adopt better land management practices.
Good Land Management
Manage your land well to reduce the amount of nutrients and contaminants entering the stream. Good land management practices include:
- selecting the most appropriate land use for the site and circumstances;
- efficient application of farm inputs (such as fertilizers) so that fewer contaminants are available to be washed into receiving waters;
- decreasing the amount of runoff into the stream.
Riparian Fencing
Put up a fence along the stream margins to prevent livestock from entering the waters or trampling the stream banks. This will prevent erosion and reduce the amount of animal waste entering the water.
Filter Strips
Allow a strip of vegetation to grow along the stream to intercept sediment, organics, nutrients, pesticides, and other contaminants before they enter the water.
Riparian Planting
By establishing plants along the stream banks you will improve erosion protection, habitat, food supplies and cultural values. Planting also enhances water quality by reducing light and temperature and by filtering sediment and contaminants. Desirable plants species can help to suppress weeds because of competition.
Constructed Wetlands
To control soluble contaminants such as nitrates, runoff can be routed through constructed wetlands.
New catchments sought
The opportunity has now arisen for groups within catchments who are passionate about water quality to express their interest in joining the programme.
For more information, download the expression of interest form below.
Environment Southland is the brand name of Southland Regional Council.