There's hopes new legislation will protect the most productive farmland.  

The rule change will stop Category 1 to 5 land being converted into forestry.  

Those with category 6 land will only be allowed to convert 15 thousand hectares.  

Federated Farmers forestry spokesperson Toby Williams told Mike Hosking that it restores the balance between farming and production forestry, and makes sure they’re playing on an even field. 

He says they’ve been working on for three or four years with the National Party, and it’s really answered their calls. 

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