Chapter 6 - Fresh Water enhanced through the use of specific classifications designed to protect those values. Compliance with these water classification standards will ensure that all the values of the resource are protected. The narrative and alphanumeric standards used to implement the water classifications are given in Appendix J, Volume Two. The Marlborough Regional Policy Statement seeks for the maintenance and enhancement of water quality where it is currently degraded. Policies 2.2 through to 2.4 seek to reduce the existing impact of point source discharges by encouraging improvements in the quality of the discharge, alternative methods of disposal to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects, and the calling in of existing discharge permits within a 24 month period to achieve a resource management regime which deals with new and existing dischargers in an equitable manner. This is particularly important if resource management is to be equitable. The Council recognises the need to require any improvements to a discharge, that may be required of existing dischargers, to be achieved over a reasonable period of time in a manner that does not impose unreasonable economic constraints yet still achieves a continuous improvement in discharge quality. Defining the reasonable mixing zone for surface water resources is crucial to the efficient and equitable implementation of the water classification management system. Rather than allowing the mixing zone to be determined on a case by case basis the Council will require all mixing zones to meet the prescribed formula to ensure a consistent and equitable approach. The use of a consistent approach for mixing zone definition will also provide greater certainty for plan users. The lack of comprehensive baseline data for existing surface water quality creates problems for the Council in understanding the actual relative effect of point and non point discharges. Policies 2.5 and 2.6 are designed to address this information gap such that full information will be available in the future which enables use of the most equitable and effective methods to manage the quality of fresh water resources. Policy 2.7 recognises the importance of self-monitoring in achieving sustainable management of the fresh water resource. Self-monitoring has the dual benefit of educating water users about the effects of their activities and providing additional water quality information that is specific to particular activities. Policy 2.8 recognises the need to treat new and existing discharges equitably. Objective 3 To protect and enhance the Mauri of fresh water resources which have very high or high value to iwi. Policy 3.1 Consents relating to taking, use, damming or diversion of fresh water classified as high value to iwi will be processed in consultation with iwi. Policy 3.2 The Council will monitor fresh water resources of cultural importance to iwi. Protecting the Mauri of fresh water resources will enable the Council to meet its duties under Sections 6, 7 and 8 of the Act. All water resources identified as being of high value to iwi, will be subject to consultation with iwi. 6 - 5