Grant to help preserve forest

An application to the Environmental Enhancement Fund (EEF) that exceeded the usual $3000 grant limit was approved by the Council’s Regional Services Committee this week.

The $9481 grant was awarded to Rod and Nan Sinclair to continue the environmental protection and maintenance of the Sherwood Forest, one of the last remaining examples of riparian podocarp forest on the Southland plains.

The property is protected by a QEII covenant and is iconic within Southland as a focus for community activity and unique biodiversity.

The Environmental Enhancement Fund assists landowners and community groups in protecting and enhancing indigenous biodiversity on private and community owned land in Southland with funding provided by Environment Southland. The fund has $30,000 available annually, but any applications over $3,000 require councillors’ approval.

Environment Southland biosecurity manager Richard Bowman said it was encouraging to see the new owners willing to get involved with biodiversity protection and enhancement.

“It’s a special piece of bush and very rare example of the type of forest that once covered Southland,” he said. “The previous owners, Derek and Pat Turnbull, were well known and respected in the community for their work in preserving it, so it’s very nice to see that the Sinclairs want to carry on their legacy.”

Mr Bowman said the grant is one of the most significant sums ever given by the EEF but he wholeheartedly supported it, as Sherwood Forest was a valuable asset to the Southland region.

The grant will go towards maintenance work including removal of non-native trees, pest control and fence repairs.

ENDS

© Scoop Media