A project aiming to ensure Auckland’s rural dams are safe and environmentally sound has kicked off its third stage this summer.

Auckland Regional Council (ARC) began visiting dams last month in south-west Rodney, Waitakere and Mahurangi to bring on-stream dams not requiring resource consent in line with safety and environmental standards. (Read on …)

A key report released by Environment Canterbury contains mixed news about the state of the region’s environment. The Regional Environment Report 2001-2008 shows that people in Christchurch are breathing cleaner air in winter and more have switched to the upgraded metro bus system. However, the report also highlights the detrimental effects of land use intensification. (Read on …)

Leaky farm dairy effluent ponds can cause as many environmental problems as having inadequate storage, so Environment Southland is setting specific standards for pond construction. (Read on …)

Environment Southland will soon be hiring a catchment ranger to oversee the Awarua/ Waituna Wetlands which is under threat from intensified farming. The 3-year position will be jointly funded by Environment Southland and the Department of Conservation, with the incumbent’s responsibilities including the protection, enhancement and maintenance of the wetland’s ecosystem. (Read on …)

Wetlands are like giant kidneys protecting the health of waterways – they help dilute and filter material that could otherwise harm our lakes and rivers. (Read on …)