July 18, 2008

MEDIA STATEMENT

Call for feedback on Milford Lagoon

People with an interest in the Milford Lagoon, at the mouth of the Opihi River near Temuka, are encouraged to head along to a public meeting on Tuesday, July 22.

Environment Canterbury has called the meeting after receiving feedback from local people who are concerned about various issues at the lagoon, including vehicle access and the condition of the shingle bar that protects it from the ocean.

The meeting is being set up to have open discussion about the management of the lagoon and its special values. Speakers will represent the Central South Island Fish and Game Council, the Department of Conservation, the Royal Forest and Bird Society, the Timaru District Council, Arowhenua Runanga and ECan.

Letters have gone out to nearby landholders inviting them to attend, and they are being asked to also let their friends and neighbours know about the meeting.

ECan assistant resource care co-ordinator Sam Shannon says they are keen to see as many people with as wide an interest as possible attend, including the landholders and Milford and Waipopo hut residents.

“We’re trying to encourage people who use the area recreationally as well, to come along – like those who go there to whitebait and fish,” he says.

“It would be great to get some of them along to share the things they value in this area and raise any concerns they may have.”

Anyone who wants to have a say and cannot attend the meeting, can phone Sam to discuss issues, 03 684 0512, or email sam.shannon@ecan.govt.nz

The meeting will run from 7.30-9pm at the Alpine Energy Community Centre, off Domain Avenue, Temuka, Tuesday, July 22.

ENDS

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