Environmental group welcomes change at Federated Farmers

Saturday, 2 July 2011, 11:36 am
Press Release: Environmental Defence Society

Environmental group welcomes change at Federated Farmers

The Environmental Defence Society has congratulated new Federated Farmers President Bruce Wills on his election to head the farmers' group.

"We welcome comments he has made about needing to bridge the gap between town and country," said EDS Chairman Gary Taylor.

"His frank acknowledgement that urban dwellers are concerned about farming's environmental record bodes well for a constructive engagement and fact-based dialogue about how we can improve fresh water quality whilst recognising the importance of farming to our economic welfare.

"It is especially pleasing to hear Bruce Wills say that he intends to be less provocative than his predecessor.

"It has not always been possible to engage constructively with Federated Farmers leadership because of firmly entrenched prejudices about environmental groups and townies. It looks like that will now change, which is great.

"I should also pay tribute to the outgoing Dairy Section head, Lachlan Mackenzie, who ably represented Federated Farmers on the Land and Water Forum.

"Mr Mackenzie came on a long journey with other stakeholders and brought Federated Farmers into the consensus report that is now with government. He should take some real satisfaction out of that achievement.

"I look forward to engaging with the new, more moderate and open-minded leadership of Federated Farmers," Mr Taylor concluded.

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Environmental Defence Society

EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.

Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non- profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.

EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.

EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.

EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.

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