Drainage Illegal, EW Says

Environment Waikato is prosecuting three parties over alleged illegal drainage in the Arapae Wetland south of Te Kuiti.

The three parties, who cannot be identified at this stage because of the pending court proceedings, are due to appear in the Te Kuiti District Court next Thursday.

EW complaints and enforcement manager Rob Dragten said the regional council was taking action after alleged unlawful activities relating to vegetation clearance, diversion of water, culverts and drainage activities at the Arapae Wetland.

In April the regional council warned farmers taking advantage of the region’s dry spell to reclaim wetlands for pasture.

EW describes wetlands as crucial to protecting the health of rivers and lakes.

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