Community members given chance to get involved in Canterbury’s water management

There is less than two weeks left to apply to be on the Regional Water Management Committee (applications close on 5 July) and make a difference to how our water is managed.

The Regional Water Management Committee is a key advisory group made up of representatives from councils, Rūnanga and the community to provide advice to Environment Canterbury and other organisations.

It is refreshing its community membership for the first time since 2013 to ensure new perspectives are reflected.

Christina Robb, Programme Manager – Canterbury Water Management Strategy (CWMS), said the process focuses on finding people who can see others’ points of views and work together.

“Since forming in 2010, the Regional Committee has been making good progress to facilitate water infrastructure development and deliver biodiversity gains across the region.

“It has played a key role in aligning work programmes across the region to help improve water quality, encourage sustainable farming practices, and protect environmental, cultural, and recreational values.

“The committee is now looking for people who are passionate about water and have expertise in specific areas including the primary industry, recreation, biodiversity, and tourism.

“The management of our water affects everyone so it’s important people get involved to help deliver the goals and targets of the CWMS, which have been set by the community,” she said.

The Regional Committee refreshment process requires that all the community member positions are refreshed every three years. Existing members are able to put their names forward for re-selection.

To apply for the Regional Water Management Committee visit www.ecan.govt.nz/canterburywater for an application form. The website also has case studies and interviews with current members.

Applications to join the Regional are due by 4:00pm, 5 July 2016.

The Canterbury Water Management Strategy (CWMS)

The CWMS is a community-led approach to freshwater management to ensure safe drinking water supplies, sustainable farming practices and clean rivers and streams, as well as enhancing recreational opportunities and protecting environment and cultural values.

The CWMS Targets

The CWMS targets provide a measurement of progress and include a set of goals applying from 2010 that reflect the fundamental principles. Targets have been set for 2015, 2020 and 2040 to provide long-term markers that reflect a sustainable development approach.

The Regional Water Management Committee

The Regional Committee is a key advisory group that provides strategic water management advice to councils and industry groups to deliver the multiple targets of the CWMS.

It considers region-wide issues including how to mangae regionally significant features and the role infrastructure can play in addressing future-proofing issues such as water quality and supply management.

ENDS

© Scoop Media