Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s):Soil Quality . Type(s) of Measure: Payments Based On Land Retirement; Payments Based On Farm Practices.
Policy SOIL CONSERVATION COST-SHARE PROGRAMMES
Agency Regional Councils
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective Soil Conservation
Delivery Mechanism Some Regional Councils, together with local authorities and other organisations within their regions, provide cost sharing for some conservation activities agreed upon as part of a property environmental plan. This approach allows the land management staff at the council to work closely with the landowner to ensure that practices undertaken on the property are sound. A high level of co-operation within the council between the policy staff and the operational land management staff ensures that desired policy outcomes are achieved at the property level. Some councils also purchase eroded land and retire it from grazing, typically planting it in trees. Targets
When Applied
Coverage/Eligibility Programmes only applied by some Regional Councils.
Costs Central government funding for soil conservation programmes has virtually ceased. Most Regional Councils have eliminated their cost-sharing programmes. Of the councils that continue with these programmes, they provide 50% to 70% cost-sharing for conservation practices undertaken by landowners. Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information MAF, Agri-Environmental Programmes in New Zealand, 2000/2001. Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, May 2001. Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Soil Quality . Type(s) of Measure: Payments Based On Land Retirement
Policy EAST COAST FORESTRY PROJECT
Agency The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Relevant Legislation Forestry (East Coast) Regulations 2000 and subsequent amendments.
Overall Objective To establish or protect existing forest on eroding or potential erodible land.
Delivery Mechanism The project invites landholders to tender for grants for approved erosion control treatments on eligible target land. Treatments include close planting with radiata or other pine species, gully planting and actively managing the reversion of pastoral land to indigenous scrub/forest.
Targets The project's original target was to establish 7,000 hectares of forest per year, with a goal of planting 200,000 hectares of erodible land over a 28-year period. The project has since been reviewed and now has the revised objective to achieve sustainable land management on the worst 60,000 hectares of severely eroding land within the East Coast District by 2020.
When Applied From 1992.
Coverage/Eligibility A voluntary program available to landowners in the East Coast District of the North Island.
Costs Budgetary figures - 2003-2004 - NZ$ 3,422,983 (including GST).
Participation/Results 30,007 hectares established under 234 approved programmes.
How Programme is An inter-departmental committee recommends annual grant funding. The Monitored/Evaluated Project is also subject to a five-yearly review (next due in 2005). Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/services/find-east-coast-forest-info.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s):Generic/Broad Spectrum; . Type(s) of Measure: Community-Based Measures; Research/Education; Technical Assistance/Extension
Policy SUSTAINABLE FARMING FUND
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To support community-driven programmes aimed at improving the financial and environmental performance of the land-based sectors. Delivery Mechanism The Fund provides grants to any group or organisation that is capable of delivering a project that is supported by the community. Funds are allocated on a contestable basis, to projects lasting from one to three years. The Fund criteria specifically exclude capital expenditure and support for commercial entities and their activities. Applicants need to demonstrate commitment to the project and be willing to contribute to it. The maximum grant payable will normally not exceed NZ$200,000 (GST inclusive) per project per year (i.e., NZ$600,000 over three years). There is no lower limit for funding. Money from the Fund is allocated to companies or organisations to undertake research projects that benefit and are of interest to the community. Projects may include: adding value and making market connections; investigations into the efficient use of land-based resources, including water; demonstration projects; information/technology transfer; identifying barriers to and options for improved land use and management. The results from projects are then shared with the community including farmers. Targets Through the duration of projects participants are required to meet predetermined project ‘milestones’, in order to receive continued funding.
When Applied Established in 2000. Projects run for between one to three years. Coverage/Eligibility Projects must seek to address a need that is identified by a community of interest and must not accrue solely to the benefit of a single company or organisation. Costs NZ$42.97 has been allocated to date, since the first funding round in 2000/01. Funding for the 2005/06 round will be NZ$ 9.5 million. See also budgetary table. Participation/Results As at September 2004, 330 projects had been funded from the first five allocation rounds of the Fund. Those projects ranged from NZ$1,300 in funding assistance to NZ$600,000, with an average size grant being NZ$127,000. How Programme is Project participants are required to report periodically to MAF. Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/sff/ http://www.beehive.govt.nz/ViewDocument.cfm?DocumentID=12349 http://www.maf.govt.nz/sff/about-projects/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Soil Quality; Reduce Water Pollution; Reduce Air Pollution; Other Sustainable Resource Practices; Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Technical Assistance/Extension; Community-Based Measures; Research/Education
Policy SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT FUND (SMF)
Agency Ministry for the Environment (MfE)
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To support the community, industry, and local government in a wide range of practical environmental management initiatives. Delivery Mechanism The SMF provides support for good ideas to improve environmental management. The Fund focuses on projects that are practical, have national benefit, involve stakeholders and are wanted by the community. The priority is developing and applying sustainable management methods, and encouraging the transfer of information and technology from technical experts to the whole community, including farmers. Communities that benefit directly from the project are expected to contribute towards the local share of the cost. Project topics are grouped in the following areas: . sustainable land management and the management of non-point sources of water pollution; . contaminated sites and degraded environments; . waste management; . monitoring indicators and comparative risk; . voluntary methods; . economic instruments; . influencing attitudes and behaviour; . Resource Management Act 1991 and Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 practices and training; and . local and regional environmental quality standards. Targets
When Applied
Coverage/Eligibility The Fund focuses on projects that are practical, have national benefit, involve stakeholders and are wanted by the community. Costs For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results Since 1994 more than NZ$ 31 million has been spent on helping fund more than 310 practical projects. This has leveraged another NZ$ 38 million of investment by others in the private sector. More than one third of the funds allocated to date have been allocated to projects related to sustainable land management, water quality management, biodiversity and land contamination. Many of these projects have also been financially supported by communities, local government industry associations, agri-business and research organisations. How Programme is Summaries of funded projects, together with the results of each project (when Monitored/Evaluated available) can be viewed on the SMF’s web page on the internet – see below. Sources/Further Information http://www.smf.govt.nz/about/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Soil Quality; Reduce Water Pollution; Other Sustainable Resource Practices . Type(s) of Measure: Technical Assistance/Extension
Policy EXTENSION ACTIVITIES
Agency Regional Councils.
Relevant Legislation Resource Management Act
Overall Objective The sustainable management of New Zealand’s natural and physical resources.
Delivery Mechanism Regional Councils provide technical advice on soil conservation and other environmental issues. This has taken on a renewed importance with the reduction in grants to farmers from central government.
In many Councils, officials assist land users to develop farm management plans that address not only soil conservation but also other environmental issues on the farm. It mainly includes technical advice for protecting water quality i.e. information on riparian management and other practices to reduce non-point as well as point source discharges to water. Increasingly the farm plans are being expanded to cover other issues such as sustainable nutrient management. Targets
When Applied Since 1991 under the Resource Management Act 1991, but under other related statutes before that time. Coverage/Eligibility Generally on a voluntary basis.
Costs Some Councils charge for the services provided to recover some of their costs, while others provide free advice.
Participation/Results Monitored by the land management staff of the Regional Council on an ongoing basis with the landowner. How Programme is The effectiveness of the various programmes is usually monitored through Monitored/Evaluated various regional State of the Environment monitoring programmes. Sources/Further Information Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum; Reduce Water Pollution; Reduce Air Pollution; Water Resources; Biodiversity; Landscape; Soil Quality; Addressing Adverse Events; Other Sustainable Resource Practices; Reducing Emissions . Type(s) of Measure: Regulatory Requirements; Environmental Taxes/Charges
Policy THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT 1991 (RMA) RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AMENDMENT ACT 2003 THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT (ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE) AMENDMENT ACT 2004 Agency The RMA is administered by the Ministry for the Environment (MfE), with most environmental responsibilities under the Act assigned to Regional Councils. Relevant Legislation The RMA replaced all or parts of 75 previous statutes and brought all activities relating to the management of land, water, air and the coastal environment under one Act. Overall Objective To promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources (including air, water, soil, biodiversity, the coastal environment, noise, subdivision and land use planning in general) for the benefit of present and future generations. Delivery Mechanism Under the RMA, the majority of resource management programmes relevant to agriculture are now carried out at the regional level. These include soil conservation activities, water quality monitoring and control, pest management, etc. Regional Councils are required to regulate discharges to water to manage water quality in order to protect native flora and fauna, drinking water supplies, cultural and recreational values, and commercial needs for clean water. Any significant point source discharge to water requires permission from the relevant Regional Council, and is usually subject to a number of conditions. In the agricultural sector, this applies to discharges from effluent ponds of dairy and other intensive livestock operations and discharges from agricultural processors and input manufacturers. Regional Councils are also required to regulate water abstractions for protecting native flora and fauna, cultural and recreational values, and availability for other uses. With few exceptions, including some livestock watering, abstraction of water from any natural source requires permission from a Regional Council. All irrigators and agricultural processing companies requiring water must apply for permission to use water and comply with any conditions imposed, including reductions in usage to protect minimum flows in rivers. Under the RMA, as a condition of any property development of less than 4 hectares, a strip of land 20 metres on either side of any water body becomes public property. District and city councils hold and manage these properties, which can be a means to protect native flora and fauna as well as provide recreation opportunities. For developments larger than 4 hectares, councils have the option of purchasing an esplanade reserve, or negotiating with the landowner for other forms of protection. The RMA empowers local authorities to control land use in order to achieve a number of sustainable management objectives. To date, this authority has been used to restrict expansion of potentially damaging activities (agricultural and other) to vulnerable land and address potential amenity concerns (such as dust and odour). This authority has also been used through regulations, alongside the provision of advice to landowners, which enables the constant improvement of the sustainability of their land management practices. Both district and Regional Councils can control land clearance including non-timber uses of indigenous forests, to provide for sustainable management under the Resource Management Act. Councils may require land clearance or partial vegetation removal, when existing land use patterns have an adverse effect on the conservation of specific sites or habitats, the protection of landscape values, or on the quality of soil and water resources. Most Regional Councils have a history of regulatory controls on land clearance and earthworks since the passage of the Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Act 1941. Land users who wish to clear highly erodible land or undertake earthworks (e.g. road construction, property development) must apply for a resource consent under the RMA, which is usually granted subject to compliance with conditions to protect water quality. Several Councils also require resource consent for clearance or burning of vegetation, especially tussock grass in the South Island. Objectives include protection of soil quality, native vegetation, air quality, and reducing the risk of fire getting out of control. The RMA was amended in 2003 to reduce compliance costs and simplify the use of national instruments including national environmental standards. The Resource Management (Energy and Climate Change) Amendment Act 2004 recognises the Government’s preference for national coordination of controls on greenhouse gas emissions and gives greater emphasis to climate change and energy matters in planning and decision-making.
Targets As described above.
When Applied From 1991. Subsequent amendments have been made to the Act.
Coverage/Eligibility The RMA applies nation-wide, but the majority of resource management programmes relevant to agriculture are now carried out by Regional Councils at the regional level. Costs All Regional Councils charge application fees for resource consents, and these are increasing as Councils move to recover all costs associated with processing applications and monitoring costs. For example, dairy farmers and others discharging waste to water bodies are required to get a permit and meet discharge standards set by the Regional Council, without any financial assistance. Where there are air quality standards to be met, whether for smell or other criteria, the farmer is responsible for meeting the costs of compliance.
See also under Regional Planning, Monitoring and Enforcement. Participation/Results
How Programme is Information on New Zealand’s environmental indicators can be found at the Monitored/Evaluated following site http://www.mfe.govt.nz/
Sources/Further Information http://www.mfe.govt.nz/laws/rma/ http://www.mfe.govt.nz/laws/rma/amendments.html http://www.mfe.govt.nz/laws/rma/energy-climate.html Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s):Biodiversity; . Type(s) of Measure: Regulatory Requirements
Policy FORESTS ACT 1949
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Relevant Legislation See title.
Overall Objective The Act was amended in 1993 to provide for the sustainable management of privately owned indigenous forests.
Delivery Mechanism Forest management prescriptions and controls on the commercial milling and exporting of indigenous timber products.
Private forest owners wishing to manage their indigenous forests must do so in accordance with a registered Sustainable Management Plan or Permit. These registered documents provide for the forest to maintain a full range of forest products and amenities in perpetuity, while retaining the forest’s natural values, irrespective of the forest area.
These requirements apply to farmers and other landowners with small native forest remnants as well as to larger blocks. The Act also covers harvesting and milling of indigenous timber for personal use, and the milling of indigenous timber for public works, mining, access, water impoundment or research.
Targets Sustainable management plans and permits, as described above.
When Applied Indigenous forest provisions (Part IIIA) were inserted by a 1993 amendment to the Forests Act 1949. Coverage/Eligibility Around 1.1 million hectares of privately-owned indigenous forest and 12,000 hectares of Crown indigenous production forests must comply with the provisions of the Act.
Costs For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/forestry/forestmanagement/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Water Resources . Type(s) of Measure: Community-Based Measures
Policy CONTESTABLE WATER FUND
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) The Agricultural Marketing and Research Development Trust (AGMARDT) Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To address barriers to water resource developments.
Delivery Mechanism Grants were provided by Government to facilitate community involvement in: Investigations aimed at improving knowledge and providing information on water resources; Development of strategies for water supply projects that improve the allocation and reallocation of water resources; Feasibility studies into water resources that lead to better use and allocation.
Grants were usually 67 % of the cost of the studies. Local share contributions could comprise non-cash contributions ‘in kind’.
Targets
When Applied The Contestable Water Fund was initiated by AGMARDT in 1999. The Fund finished in 2001.
Coverage/Eligibility
Costs Funded 50/50 with Government and AGMARDT funds to a value of NZ$2.25m. The funds were allocated by June 2000 and Government continued it for another year with an additional NZ$1.35m, making a total of NZ$3.6m.
Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/publications/rmupdate/rm9/rmupdate06.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Addressing Adverse Events . Type(s) of Measure: Community-Based Measures
Policy DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAMMES
Agency Programmes may include a range of Government Departments, including the Department of Work and Income, the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To respond to large-scale climatic disasters.
Delivery Mechanism Financial assistance provided by the government is limited to disasters that are beyond the ability of a region or community to manage. Assistance may be provided to help local communities restore essential infrastructure, which includes water, stormwater, electrical, sewerage and gas facilities. Flood protection works are also included when they directly protect and impact upon communities. The government contributes 60% towards the cost of restoring uninsurable infrastructure once local authority expenditure exceeds a threshold related to the Equalised Net Capital Value (ENCV) of the project.
For an event of Natural Significance, direct assistance is available to agricultural producers for the replacement, or repair of qualifying uninsurable assets, of qualifying uninsurable, damaged infrastructure, such as, access tracks and boundary fences. Other measures eligible for government support may include co-ordination of the recovery effort, aerial reconnaissance with local leaders, involvement of the Defence Forces, and humane livestock disposal.
Also, the Department of Work and Income may provide long-term unemployed labour to assist with such things as the cleanup after an adverse event, and a minimal short-term living expense assistance to farm families with no other source of income after an adverse event. Eligibility is reassessed on a monthly basis. Targets
When Applied Introduced in 1993.
Coverage/Eligibility Limited to area(s) affected by disasters.
Costs For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/rural-nz/emergency- management/preparing/readiness-and-recovery-plan/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Addressing Adverse Events; Water Resources . Type(s) of Measure: Community-Based Measures
Policy FLOOD CONTROL AND LAND DRAINAGE PROGRAMME
Agency Regional Councils
Relevant Legislation The empowering legislation for these functions includes the Soil Conservation and Rivers Control Act 1941 and the Land Drainage Act 1908.
Overall Objective To reduce the effects of flooding on life (human and animal) and property (belonging to agricultural producers and others) and to enhance the productivity of the land.
Delivery Mechanism Land drainage and river control undertaken by Regional Councils benefiting both agricultural producers, communities and other groups in society. The programme covers a range of activities focusing on the management, of the country’s rivers, streams and drainage networks. Much of this work programme relates to the maintenance and upgrading of flood control and drainage infrastructure originally developed by central government, or assisted by historical subsidy systems then in place.
Targets Varying levels of risk are protected against, related to benefits, assets at risk etc. When Applied
Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs Approximately 75% of expenditure on this programme is recovered through user fees, special rates (or property taxes) and levies from the area benefiting directly due to the works. Some costs are borne by the Region as a whole. Central government grants for construction have largely been eliminated.
For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results Implementation of new works depends on support locally and regionally, and commitment to funding requirements. How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Soil Quality; Reduce Water Pollution; Biodiversity; Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Community-Based Measures
Policy LANDCARE GROUPS
Agency Community groups. The Landcare Trust (see website below) fosters sustainable land management and biodiversity initiatives by working with community groups around the country. Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To address local resource management issues.
Delivery Mechanism A number of community groups have been formed by land-users and other concerned individuals. These groups perform a variety of activities including:
the planting of trees to prevent soil erosion; pest management; trialing alternative grazing practices to improve farm sustainability; clearing streams; planting river banks to stabilise them; trialing alternative grass species or crops to arrest soil degradation; and researching new techniques to manage soil, water or vegetation.
Landcare groups may work with district or regional councils, scientists or consultants. Some groups are working with a local school, business, or other community organisation on a shared project. Several Regional Councils encourage these groups by providing administrative and/or technical support, and in some cases by providing limited funding. Targets
When Applied These Landcare groups have been formed over the past decade.
Coverage/Eligibility Regional
Costs Regional Councils may provide funding. Funding may also be granted by the Lotteries Grants Board, which operates an Environment and Heritage Fund. The Ministry for the Environment (MfE) also makes a contribution through the Sustainable Management Fund. Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information www.landcare.org.nz http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/index.asp Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Research/Education
Policy FOUNDATION FOR RESEARCH, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (FRST)
Agency See title.
Relevant Legislation Foundation for Research, Science, and Technology Act 1990 Overall Objective To invest in research, science and technology on behalf of the New Zealand Government to enhance the wealth and well-being of New Zealanders.
Delivery Mechanism Most agri-environmental research (approximately 90%) sponsored by central government has been funded through the Public Good Science Fund (PGSF) which is administered by the Foundation for Research and Science Technology (FRST). Under this system, FRST calls for research propositions from research providers and subsequently allocates funding based on set criteria. Targets Strategic research across the social, environmental and economic sectors.
When Applied From July 1990.
Coverage/Eligibility The main recipients of this funding are Crown Research Institutes such as Ag-Research, Hort-Research, Crop and Food Research and Landcare Research. Universities, polytechnics and government departments also receive funding to a lesser extent.
Costs Invests NZ$430 million annually on a wide range of research, science and technology initiatives with economic, environmental and social benefits. Of this some NZ$94 million is spent on annually on all forms environmental research. For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results The PGSF funding includes research on sustainable land management and included programmes contributing to sustainable management by increasing knowledge of how to maintain the ecological and productive capacity of land ecosystems.
Research is also undertaken on sustainable farming methods, including organic farming methodologies, breeding for disease resistance, methods for reducing chemical usage (minimising herbicide, fungicide and pesticide applications), biocontrol, pest ecology/biology that underpins biocontrol and integrated pest management strategies.
How Programme is Strategic Reviews are undertaken to prepare for investment decision-making. Monitored/Evaluated They are also one of several ways used by FRST to check at the end of the investment process whether its goals have been implemented.
Sources/Further Information Http://www.frst.govt.nz/ Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Research/Education
Policy MARSDEN FUND
Agency Administered by the Royal Society of New Zealand.
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To support curiosity-driven basic research.
Delivery Mechanism The Marsden Fund is formally known as the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology’s "Basic Science Fund". The Marsden Fund Committee makes all funding allocation decisions for the Fund. The Committee calls for research proposals. These are assessed by the Committee members, assisted by senior researchers around New Zealand, to enable the Committee to select those researchers from which it will invite full applications. Full applications are then assessed, and contracts and funding are then assigned to successful research providers. Multi-year and single-year research funding allocations are made. Targets
When Applied The Fund was established in 1994.
Coverage/Eligibility All areas of the physical sciences, social sciences and humanities.
Costs NZ$34.3 million in 2004/05, of which 30% is in the biological sciences. For budgetary figures see table. Participation/Results Approximately NZ$1.5 million of this was allocated to agri-environmental research. How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Http://www.frst.govt.nz/Publications/Foundation/19/issue19.cfm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Technical Assistance/Extension; Research/Education
Policy FOCUS FARMS/ORCHARD PROGRAMMES
Agency Local government; industry; the Agricultural Marketing and Research Development Trust (AGMARDT); and research agencies, and formerly the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective The objective of the Focus Farms programme was to facilitate behavioural change of all farmers to more sustainable economic, ecological and social practices.
Delivery Mechanism MAF facilitated the establishment of farms, orchards and horticultural units "focus farms" throughout New Zealand, and aided their effective operation by providing information and expertise. The programme used "focus farms" to:
(a) identify sustainability issues; (b) identify sustainability indicators; and (c) demonstrate best management practices for achieving sustainability.
Each "focus farm" involved a facilitator, a focus farm family, a technical farming expert and a community group made up of other farmers and representatives of stakeholder organisations. The farming public was kept informed of progress on the "focus farm" by mailing lists, media articles and annual field days. Funding has come from central government and local government programmes, AGMARDT, research agencies, Meat New Zealand, and various other agribusiness participants. Targets
When Applied Focus farms have been established since the implementation of the Resource Management Act in 1991. Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs For budgetary figures see table. MAF’s funding contribution ceased some years ago. Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/publications/rmupdate/rm2/rm2003.html Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Inspection/Control; Research/Education
Policy REGIONAL PLANNING, MONITORING AND ENFORCEMENT
Agency Regional Councils
Relevant Legislation Relevant national legislation includes the Resource Management Act
Overall Objective Environmental planning, monitoring and enforcement.
Delivery Mechanism Regional Councils address a variety of environmental issues through regulations, including water allocation, water quality, air quality, vegetation clearance and others.
Regulations are usually preceded by a considerable investment in research and public consultation. Councils have traditionally financed these activities through general property taxes called "rates", although a large proportion of these costs are now being recovered through user-charges on services provided by Councils.
Targets
When Applied
Coverage/Eligibility Applied on a regional basis.
Costs
Participation/Results
How Programme is Regulations are monitored and enforced. Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information
Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Soil Quality; Reduce Water Pollution; Reduce Air Pollution; Biodiversity . Type(s) of Measure: Inspection/Control
Policy PESTICIDE COLLECTION
Agency Regional Councils
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective To remove out-of-date chemicals from circulation and to reduce the risk of accidental contamination from improper and prolonged storage of pesticides.
Delivery Mechanism Several Regional Councils administer programmes to collect unwanted chemicals. Most councils have focused on the agricultural sector, but have accepted unwanted chemicals from others as well. Targets
When Applied
Coverage/Eligibility Not all Regional Councils offer this service.
Costs The service has been provided free of charge.
Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Biodiversity; Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Regulatory Requirements
Policy HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES AND NEW ORGANISMS ACT 1996 (HSNO) Agency The Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA) is responsible for delivery of the HSNO Act. The Act is enforced by a number of central government agencies, including the Department of Labour, the Ministry of Health, and New Zealand's 74 territorial authorities (these include city councils and district councils). Relevant Legislation See title.
Overall Objective To protect the environment, and the health and safety of people and communities, by preventing or managing the adverse effects of hazardous substances – including pesticides - and new organisms - including any animal, plant or microbe that is not currently present in New Zealand. The HSNO Act complements the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Act 1997, which addresses the risks to agricultural production from agricultural compounds, including pesticides, plant compounds and veterinary medicines. Delivery Mechanism The HSNO Act and regulations provide a health, safety and environmental package. The Act establishes: A comprehensive assessment and approval process for introducing new hazardous substances and new organisms into New Zealand A consistent, control framework based on performance requirements for hazardous substances and new organisms Regulations to manage hazardous substances. Hazardous substances generally have hazard-based controls placed on them. These controls allow parties to use any method they want to achieve the required standards. Decisions on applications to introduce new organisms, or to introduce and impose controls on hazardous substances are made by one central agency, ERMA. Fines up to NZ$ 500,000 can be imposed for offences breaching the HSNO Act's main provisions. Offenders can be imprisoned for up to three months. Note: The transitional provisions of the HSNO Act provides for the continued use of some substances, including pesticides, which were approved prior to application of the HSNO Act in July 2001. These substances are to be transferred to the HSNO Act by 2004-2006. Targets When Applied The HSNO Act was introduced in June 1996. Provisions relating to new organisms took effect in July 1998 with the provisions relating to hazardous substances coming into force in July 2001. Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs The assessment and approvals process under the HSNO Act operates on a user- pays basis. Participation/Results How Programme is The enforcement agencies monitor compliance with the Act and regulations Monitored/Evaluated and the conditions set by ERMA. They can issue compliance orders and infringement notices and prosecute offenders for non-compliance with an order. Sources/Further Information Http://www.hsno.govt.nz/about.shtm Http://www.mfe.govt.nz Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Generic/Broad Spectrum . Type(s) of Measure: Regulatory Requirements
Policy AGRICULTURAL COMPOUNDS AND VETERINARY MEDICINES (ACVM) ACT 1997
Agency The Agricultural Compounds & Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Group of the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA)
Relevant Legislation See title.
Overall Objective To prevent or manage risks from agricultural compounds (includes pesticides, veterinary medicines/plant compounds, fertilisers and animal feeds) to: . trade in primary produce; . animal welfare; and . agricultural security. It also ensures that the use of agricultural compounds does not result in breaches of residue standards. The ACVM Act complements the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO), which addresses, inter alia, the risks to human health and the environment from hazardous substances and new organisms.
Delivery Mechanism The ACVM Group is responsible for the regulatory control of agricultural compounds, and their importation, manufacture, sale and use under the ACVM Act. The offence provisions for non-compliance under the ACVM Act are significant – they are up to NZ$ 30,000 for individuals or NZ$ 150,000 for corporations.
Targets
When Applied The ACVM Act was passed in 1997, and came into force on 2 July 2001.
Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs Most of the costs of registration and approval are recouped through registration and annual fees.
For budgetary figures see table. Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/acvm/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Biodiversity . Type(s) of Measure: Regulatory Requirements
Policy THE BIOSECURITY ACT 1993
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)
Relevant Legislation As above.
Overall Objective To exclude, eradicate or effectively manage pests and unwanted organisms.
Delivery Mechanism The Act has two major components:
. prevention of the introduction of unwanted organisms not already established in New Zealand (i.e. border control); and . management of unwanted organisms established in New Zealand.
The powers in the Biosecurity Act are also used to enforce the new organisms provisions in the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996. - Targets
When Applied From 1993.
Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs It is estimated that Government agencies spend about NZ$ 300 million on Biosecurity services annually. Some of this cost is recovered from users.
Participation/Results Biosecurity activities are undertaken variously by Government agencies, regional councils, industry groups and private landowners How Programme is The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is responsible for the biosecurity Monitored/Evaluated system and monitoring and reporting on its performance. Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/about/introduction.htm http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/legislation/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Biodiversity . Type(s) of Measure: Technical Assistance/Extension
Policy SPECIFIC DISEASE AND PEST RESPONSES
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)
Relevant Legislation The Biosecurity Act 1993.
Overall Objective To respond to a specific exotic disease/pest incursion.
Delivery Mechanism The Government purchases the services necessary to respond to incursions, and co-ordinates responses. Recent exotic disease or pest responses include: Dutch Elm Disease, Subterranean Termite, Gumleaf Skeletoniser, Painted Apple Moth, Varroa Bee Mite, Fall Webworm and Asian Gypsy Moth. Targets Unwanted organisms capable of causing harm to the economy, environment and human health.
When Applied Ongoing.
Coverage/Eligibility Nation-wide.
Costs Budgetary figures are included in Quarantine and Border Protection measures in Table. Participation/Results Varies by programme.
How Programme is Varies by programme Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/biosecurity/pests-diseases/index.htm Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Biodiversity . Type(s) of Measure: Inspection/Control
Policy PEST MANAGEMENT
Agency Regional Councils and other management agencies.
Relevant Legislation Biosecurity Act 1993 provides powers for Pest Management Strategies (PMS) and for central government management of incursions. Overall Objective Pest management.
Delivery Mechanism Regional Councils are empowered to produce regional management strategies for plant and animal pests. These strategies must be revised every five years, with the first series of reviews taking place in 2001. Under these strategies, councils are responsible for inspecting properties, monitoring the occurrence of pests and ensuring that land occupiers carry out pest control operations where pest populations exceed prescribed threshold levels.
Councils work in conjunction with landowners to provide advice, co-ordinate control activities, undertake research and explore other forms of pest control including biological control initiatives.
Central government has promulgated two national PMS, for bovine tuberculosis and American Foulbrood in bee colonies.
Targets Pests named in PMS.
When Applied From the commencement of the PMS.
Coverage/Eligibility As specified in the PMS.
Costs Although some central and local government funding for pest control continues, operations are increasingly funded by mandatory levies and private beneficiaries. Participation/Results For budgetary figures see table.
How Programme is The PMS specifies how monitoring will be conducted. Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Biodiversity . Type(s) of Measure: Inspection/Control
Policy PEST AND DISEASE SURVEILLANCE
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)
Relevant Legislation Biosecurity Act 1993
Overall Objective The surveillance of domestic animal and plant populations and forests to detect the presence of unwanted organisms, and maintaining an accurate knowledge of animal, forest and plant health status.
Delivery Mechanism MAF maintains the capability to respond to any confirmed incursion of nominated unwanted organisms in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 1993 and applicable technical and operational standards. MAF also maintains or contracts accredited systems and procedures, trained personnel, a laboratory diagnostic capability and database management to enable the control or eradication of unwanted organisms and pests at the direction of a Chief Technical Officer in accordance with the provisions of the Biosecurity Act 1993. Targets Organisms capable of causing harm to animal, plant, or human health.
When Applied From 1993 when the Biosecurity Act was passed.
Coverage/Eligibility Varies by programme.
Costs For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results Varies by programme.
How Programme is Varies by programme Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information Matrix Classification
. Country: New Zealand . Environmental Objective(s): Organics . Type(s) of Measure: Labelling standards/Certification
Policy ORGANICS INITITATIVES
Agency Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)
Relevant Legislation
Overall Objective Support for sector groups for the sustainable development and growth of the organic sector. Delivery Mechanism Four organic initiatives will receive funding under this programme: (a) National Minimum Standard – funding for the development of a National Minimum Standard for organic products. The Standard will specify acceptable production methods for organic products and will be enforceable under the Fair Trading Act. (b) Small-Scale Organic Producers’ Certification Scheme – funding to develop a product certification system for small-scale producers. Once established, this scheme will be self-funding. (c) Organics Sector Strategy – funding for the development of a growth strategy for the organic sector. (d) Organic Working Group – funding for the development of an Organic Working Group that will interface between government agencies and organic producers. Targets
When Applied Entered into effect December 2000 and will be applied for 3 years.
Coverage/Eligibility
Costs NZ$ 335,000. For budgetary figures see table.
Participation/Results
How Programme is Monitored/Evaluated Sources/Further Information http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/rural-nz/sustainable-resource-use/organic- production/index.htm