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.