February 2016
MEDIA ADVISORY

Funding for Lyell Creek restoration projects up for consideration

The Kaikōura Zone Water Management Committee will consider funding three new biodiversity projects at its meeting on February 24.

The zone committee was given $500,000 over five years to allocate to biodiversity projects in the zone. So far, they have allocated $383,420 to 16 different projects, leaving $116,580 to be allocated by the end of June this year.

Two of the projects involve the restoration and enhancement of Lyell Creek.

The first is an extension of the Smiths Lyell Creek planting project. Stage one of the project received $4700 of funding and the plantings are now thriving and providing excellent stream shade along the riparian margin.

This new project looks to increase native riparian vegetation cover within the riparian margin of Lyell Creek and the associated spring-fed wetland and drainage area by erecting stock-proof fencing, planting native eco-sourced plants and maintaining those plants already established.

Another project seeks to set up permanent stock proof fencing to exclude stock from Lyell Creek and to plant in the riparian zone to provide stream shade and filter run-off from the surrounding land. The project is a joint initiative between the landowner, Fonterra and Environment Canterbury. Fonterra staff will assist with the planting day, while the landowner will undertake the fencing, site preparation and ongoing maintenance for three years.

The third project, proposed by Forest & Bird, involves native planting along the Waimangarara River.

The zone committee will also hear the results of the latest water quality monitoring and appoint a chair and deputy for 2016 at Wednesday’s meeting.

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