Tutaenui Stream Restoration Society convener Greg Carlyon says many people will be surprised at what has an impact on the health of the Tutaenui Stream.
As part of Conservation Week the stream society is hosting a talk on the things that influence the stream which runs through the Marton township.
Mr Carlyon said Marton's stormwater and sewage was discharged to it and over some of its length there was stock access to the stream which further polluted it.
But action was being taken to restore health to the Tutaenui through community-driven planting and restoration programmes, Rangitikei District Council's focus on managing the water supply dams and upcoming resource consents.
"We can turn the tide in either direction and in our Rangitikei community it's quite clear that people want to look after our great water quality in perpetuity, and where it's poor, like the Tutaenui Stream, see it improved," Mr Carlyon said.
"I've heard so many stories from locals about the way in which they used to swim and play and catch koura and eels in the Tutaenui Stream.
"It's entirely possible that this community could expect to be doing the same thing again over this next decade as we improve access and get on top of water quality issues."
Mr Carlyon said at the talk the society would be sharing images and information about the Tutaenui Stream.
It has also invited representatives from Horizons Regional Council and the Rangitikei District Council to take part.
The public talk is on at the Rangitikei College Library at 6pm on October 17.
