MEDIA RELEASE                                  www.envbop.govt.nz
 

Water sustainability strategy for western Bay of Plenty

 
For immediate release: Thursday 18 November, 2010
 

Population growth and intensification of land use are increasing demand for water in the western Bay of Plenty.

To ensure the sub-region has enough water for people, the economy and the environment over the next 50 years, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, in conjunction with Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council have worked with local industry and iwi groups to develop a water sustainability strategy for the western Bay of Plenty.

The strategy was adopted by the Regional Council earlier this year and has recently been distributed to interested parties. 

“The strategy draws on science which has identified long-term water requirements, water short and water rich areas - both surface and groundwater - in the sub-region,” says Raewyn Bennett, Chair of Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Strategy, Policy and Planning Committee.   

“The strategy is an opportunity to be proactive in addressing future problems, seizing opportunities and balancing the economic, social, cultural and environmental values for water,” she said.

The strategy aims to improve information to the community and promote a shared responsibility for management of the water resource.

The key outcomes identified in the strategy are to improve water resource knowledge, manage water demands and foster effective relationships.

“We want to find a balance between the amount of water available and the various demands for water, while encouraging and supporting effective relationships with councils, industry, rural land users, tangata whenua and the wider community,” Ms Bennett said.

The strategy is a non-statutory document and provides guidance on managing water quantity in the western Bay of Plenty. The councils have identified implementation plans, both short-term (the next three years) and longer term.  

Copies of the Strategy are available on Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s website www.envbop.govt.nz or by calling the Regional Council on 0800 368 267.

 ends

© Scoop Media