Alexander (Sandy) Elliott HS4 Presentation

My original written evidence for HS4 (January 12) addressed the robustness and fitness-for-purpose of methods for establishing nutrient load limits proposed by Dr Canning in HS1. The scope of my assessment excludes setting of concentration limits, and excludes the methods to allocate load limits to land-use classes

In my original written evidence I raised a number of concerns about the methods used by Dr Canning, and concluded that the methods were not sufficiently clear or robust. Since I submitted my original evidence, Dr Canning has prepared revised evidence (dated 26 January) to be presented in HS4. That revised evidence includes a number of amendments and clarifications to the original evidence, which responds to some of my concerns. The revisions impact on my original conclusions.

Several of my original concerns have been addressed in Dr Canning’s revised evidence. However, I still have significant questions and concerns about the methods. It has been tentatively agreed with Dr Canning to undertake caucusing later this week. I expect this will address some of my remaining concerns.

In my view the proposed methods will remain a coarse approach for establishing load limits. A table summarising key points in my original evidence, Dr Canning’s response in his revised evidence, and my updated view has been tabled today.