With more than 65 kilometres of rural waterway fencing behind it, Auckland Council’s Waterway Protection Fund is seeking new projects in Franklin and Papakura, with applications open from 8 February to 18 March.
The fund supports rural landowners and the community to reduce erosion and enhance water quality in waterways.
Opening in February, council’s grants team says getting the information together to submit quality applications can be time-consuming and is urging people to start planning.
Papakura local Board chair Brent Catchpole says the fund supports landowner and community initiatives that will help improve water quality in Franklin and Papakura.
“Initiatives must protect riparian land around our streams, wetlands and waterways, and reduce the potential for soil erosion and water contamination,” he says.
“Funding is available to all landowners, including farmers and lifestyle block owners, and community or environmental groups.”
Priority is given to applications from neighbours, or landowners on both sides of a waterway, and those partnering with iwi.
Franklin Local Board chair Andy Baker says the fund has already had an impact in the area, with large-scale planting projects launched, many involving significant volunteer hours.
“The fund even considers projects on public land proposed by community groups or landowner collectives. It also allows people who have completed projects to apply for further funding to continue their efforts.”
Funding is available to support the protection, enhancement or restoration of streams, waterways, wetlands and riparian margins. The aim is to support fencing and planting that protects streams, wetlands, seeps and drains by keeping stock out. Funding is also available for alternative water supplies.
With a $250,000 budget, applicants can apply for half of a project’s costs, meeting the other half themselves, a contribution that can be in-kind, such as voluntary labour.
Funding is given on a reimbursement basis after visits confirm work has been completed, and there must be an on-going commitment to maintenance and management of the project.
Site visits with advisors who can help plan projects can be arranged now by contacting Matt Sutton on 027 265 6222 or at Matt@te-ngahere.co.nz
For more, contact Wendy D’Arcy on 027 264 3379 or at wendy.darcy@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or visit the website here.
