Environment

Environment Southland has issued a warning after detecting toxic algae in the Waiau River near the Excelsior Creek inflow. While algae naturally occur in waterways, certain types can produce harmful toxins, especially during stable river flows and fine weather. Toxic algae can appear as dark green or brown slime on

* Researchers recorded earthquakes as deep as 40km in Southland's continental crust. * Study revealed unusually deep seismic activity due to unique crust composition with iron-rich minerals. * Findings improve understanding of hidden faults and future earthquake risks in Southland. University of Otago researchers have detected earthquakes as deep as 40

* Advocate fears Southland dumpsite erosion could harm marine life and coastal environment. * Southland Council maintains the site has low erosion risk, with regular monitoring in place. * Calls intensify for collaborative action to protect the vulnerable Colac Bay area. A community advocate has raised alarms over the future of an old

Southlanders caring for our unique species and taking action in their businesses and on farms, with the environment at heart, were among those acknowledged at this evening’s 28th Environment Southland Community Awards. The awards provide a vital platform for environmental leaders throughout Southland to be celebrated and for their

* Federated Farmers Southland calls on local farmers to boycott Fish & Game licences. * The boycott comes after a court ruling requiring consents for over 3000 Southland farmers. * Farmers asked to remove fishing access and replace signs with orange ribbons in protest. Federated Farmers Southland is urging farmers to boycott Fish

* Heavy Rain Watch issued for Inland Clutha and Southland from Thursday noon to Friday noon. * Rivers in the region are above normal levels, with no immediate signs of rising further. * Farmers are urged to reach out for support due to ongoing adverse weather conditions. The MetService has issued a Heavy

* New $30 million fund to support councils in cleaning up vulnerable contaminated sites. * The fund replaces the Contaminated Sites Remediation Fund and covers more remediation projects. * Eligible councils can apply to protect communities and the environment from potential risks. The Government has launched a new $30 million Contaminated Sites and

* Waituna Lagoon will be mechanically opened to prevent ecological damage and assist the community. * High water levels have been affecting local roads, paddocks, and farming activities for weeks. * Lagoon opening aims to flush nutrients and sediment, resetting the environment for summer. Environment Southland has decided to use its emergency powers