There were 21 prosecutions in the past year, 34 the previous year, 25 in 2011-12, and 49 in 2009-10.
“While 21 prosecutions is 21 too many, we need to remember that there are some 12,000 dairy herds in New Zealand.
“In pure percentage terms it is 0.00175% of all herds,” he said.
“It affirms our view that there is a genuine change of culture in farming.
“A decade ago the main topic would be stocking rates but today it is dominated by environmental factors.
“When you’ve got weather-beaten dairy farmers in their late 50s comparing notes on riparian plantings and ground sensors you know there’s a cultural change afoot.
“The 2012-13 season went against a falling trend.
“Given the 2012-13 season corresponded with the worst drought in 70 years that could be a factor. What is beyond doubt is a substantial improvement on the 49 in 2009/10.
“We also need to be realistic that these numbers will oscillate and some years will be better than others but the overall trend is positive.”
Abatement notices were 43% lower and infringements 49% lower than in 2008-09.
“Generally speaking, regional councils have started to understand farmer psyche and are improving their dialogue with farmers.
“We are also seeing the courts taking a much tougher line with the average fine growing substantially as each season passes.
“After some years of tension we are seeing councils communicating better with farmers and this has made a substantial difference to compliance,” Rolleston said.
