Council sets compliance approach for winter grazing season

Environment Southland Compliance Manager Donna Ferguson said during the winter period from 1 May to 30 September, staff will operate parallel processes: one assessing winter grazing compliance, and the other supporting landowners to progress their farm plans.

This approach would provide greater transparency for the rural sector, she said.

“By separating winter grazing assessments from farm plan follow‑up, we can give landowners clearer information about what needs attention, while ensuring our reporting is accurate and consistent,” she said.

Recognising that many landowners are at different stages of their farm plan journey, Environment Southland will take an education‑first approach this season.

Landowners yet to complete a certified farm plan will receive written advice and be referred to the Council’s Farm Plan team for support. No enforcement action will be taken this year for not having a certified farm plan.

“Where winter grazing rules are breached, we will investigate in line with the Council’s enforcement policy. Cost recovery may apply if environmental harm is identified or if repeat offences occur.

“Our priority is protecting soil and water quality during the winter period. Most farmers are doing the right thing, and our role is to support good practice while taking proportionate action where necessary,” Donna Ferguson said.

The team will be carrying out aerial monitoring flights as well.

Central Government is preparing to make further changes to the farm plan system.

However, they have said these changes won't remove the requirement to have a farm plan, that work already done on farm plans would not be wasted, and that Southland farmers will be ahead of the game with new regulations and a new planning system.

Landowners seeking help with winter grazing plans or farm planning can contact Environment Southland on 0800 76 88 45 or by email: service@es.govt.nz