Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan Rules are necessary in part to control the circumstances under which abstraction is permitted. Changes in attitude towards the conservation of the resource are best achieved through education. 3.3 Groundwater 3.3.1 Issue The groundwater resource susceptibility to degradation due to use and development of resources. Groundwater is an important source of water for many purposes in the lower Kaituna, Pelorus and Rai Valley areas. Uses include municipal supply for the township of Havelock, industry such as mussel processing, dairy shed and domestic supply. Generally though, it is a very under used resource throughout the Marlborough Sounds plan area. In some areas, such as the outer Marlborough Sounds, this is due to limited extent and availability. Because the principal groundwater systems are located in a high rainfall area there is little concern over their ability to supply foreseeable demand with the exception of the Havelock Harbour area where there is the potential for saltwater intrusion. Generally speaking there is an excess of groundwater from an agricultural perspective. Of more concern is the susceptibility of these shallow and generally unconfined aquifers to contamination from agricultural run-off, leaching of nitrates and effluent disposal systems. Watertables are close to ground level in many areas and provide easy access for contaminants from waste and leave a shallow depth in which to filter potential pollutants. High rates of rainfall increase the potential for leaching of contaminants from the surface to the shallow watertable. The inter-dependence between groundwater and surface water resources means the contamination of one will potentially lead to the contamination of the other. 3.3.2 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 Management of the effects of activities so that: the quality of groundwater is maintained, or where appropriate enhanced; and the quantity of groundwater is maintained at a level which will protect and sustain ecosystems. Policy 1.1 Avoid, remedy or mitigate the reduction of groundwater quality by contamination from land use activities that discharge to land and water, or disturb the land. Policy 1.2 Avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse environmental effects arising from the taking and use of groundwater. Policy 1.3 Avoid any allocation of groundwater resources which could result in a permanent lowering of water levels below the natural fluctuation range. Policy 1.4 Avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects arising from the construction or alteration of bores. 3 - 10