Farmers are being asked to contact the Waikato Regional council if they need advice on managing high effluent pond levels following the heavy rains recently.

Farming services team leader Stuart Stone says farmers might be under pressure to empty ponds to stop effluent spilling out in amounts that are difficult to manage and could end up in waterways.

The Waikato Regional Council wants to hear from farmers who need help managing their effluent ponds following the recent heavy rains. Photo: WRC

'We acknowledge some ponds will be close to overtopping due to the rain but farmers still need to do everything they can to ensure they don't overtop,” he says.

'They should actively manage their ponds and take all reasonable steps to prevent effluent from entering waterways.”

Options for lowering pond levels other than irrigating to pasture include looking to transport material away by tanker for disposal or using someone else's surplus storage. Farmers can also ensure stormwater system flows are diverted away from ponds.

'The situation underlines the need for farmers to have enough storage to ensure they can comply with council rules 365 days a year,” adds Stuart.

If you feel your pond is at risk of overtopping, or want other effluent-related advice, call the Waikato Regional Council's farming services team on 0800 800 402.