Mitigation

Here are some simple steps to minimise the effects of sediment on water quality and mahinga kai.

• Fence waterways to prevent stock access to stream banks.
• Create and maintain a vegetated riparian buffer that can greatly reduce the damaging effects of sediment.
• Create a buffer zone of long grass from 5 to 10 m width to filter overland flow of sediments to waterways.
• During earthworks activities incorporate devices such as riparian buffers, mesh fences, sediment retention ponds, sediment traps, or hay bales in drainage runoff zones to reduce sediment pollution.
• Avoid discharging runoff directly into waterways. Install sediment traps, especially on each side of stream crossings or bridges.

Find out about industry or land use specific mitigation options on the corresponding activity or industry page.