The Oyster Farmers Association says a new rule in Northland, making oyster farmers pay a bond, could cripple the region’s marine industry.

Northland Regional Council now requires 150 far north marine farmers to pay a bond of $9,000 per hectare, or $6.95 per lineal meter of rack, to cover the cost of cleaning up their oyster farms if they’re abandoned.

President Callum McCallum of The Oyster Farmers Association says no farm has ever been completely abandoned, and the clean-up bond may force some farmers out of business. He says the association is considering appealing the decision.

But Allan Richards of Northland Regional Council says no actual cash will change hands, unless a cleanup is required. New Oyster Farm Bond Threatens Industry: Northland Oyster Farmers