Whanganui people get to hear what a leading scientist thinks of Government's new policies on freshwater this month.
The policies, announced in February, have been roundly criticised. They are are still subject to consultation.
They aim to make 90 per cent of New Zealand rivers swimmable by 2040.
In the Whanganui Science Forum's next talk Massey University Professor Russell Death will cover the proposed swimmability standards in the policy statement. His talk is at 7.30pm on May 30, in the Davis Lecture Theatre.
Professor Death has 22 years' experience in freshwater ecology. He has written many papers and reports and spoken at many conferences on the subject of freshwater ecology.
In Whanganui he will give his informed opinion on how the proposed swimmability standard will affect both freshwater ecology and human health.
Implementing the National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management will be a major effort. It could cost an estimated $2 billion over 23 years, mainly through changes to farming practice and sewage treatment.
It will require more stock to be excluded from waterways and a reduction in nitrogen and phosphorous entering them from farming and treated sewage.
Critics have said the standard for swimmability has been lowered in the policy statement, and that 23 years is too long to wait for more swimmable rivers.
All are welcome to the talk, which will cost $4 for members of the science forum, and $5 for others.