Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
The Big Benefit Of Tree Planting In Hawke's Bay
Gianina Schwanecke, Producer/Presenter
Tree planting efforts around Hawke's Bay hill country farms are paying off, new data shows.
A report presented to the Hawke's Bay Regional Council Environment & Integrated Catchments Committee earlier this week found planting trees and natives can help reduce erosion across the region.
More than 250,000 hectares of hill country in the region is considered high risk for erosion but poplar and willow plantings can reduce this by up to 70%, and up to 90% with closed canopy forest.
Committee chairperson Sophie Siers said the data was encouraging and showed that years of erosion control investment by council in partnership with landowners was starting to pay off.
"The tree plantings that our regional council's been running have all been with the aim of keeping soils on the hills, where it belongs.
"The science is telling us that planting in the right places really can stop slips, keep sediment out of rivers, and protect the whenua. It's not just theory, it's happening out there, on farms and hillsides across Hawke's Bay."
Analysis from 50 farm sites showed that tree-covered land experienced 1,895 fewer landslides - a 7% reduction, with 9% less sediment flowing into rivers.
Councillor Siers said planting trees helped make for "more resilient landscapes", reducing sediment loss, which can impact water quality and lead to downstream flooding due to build up.
RNZ
New Zealand's public broadcaster, providing comprehensive NZ news and current affairs, specialist audio features and documentaries.
Radio New Zealand is a Crown entity established under the Radio New Zealand Act 1995. Radio New Zealand News are vital elements in our programming, providing impartial news and information to New Zealanders every day. Radio New Zealand (RNZ) provides listeners with exciting and independent radio programmes in accordance with the Radio New Zealand Charter.
Gordon Campbell: On How US Courts Are Helping Donald Trump Steal The Mid-Terms
Office of the Ombudsman: Ombudsman Publishes Findings On Ministry Of Education Sensitive Claims Scheme
Nelson City Council: Mayor Welcomes Auditor-General Decision Not To Prosecute Councillor
Johnnie Freeland: Ko Tātou Tātou - Climate Action In Aotearoa Begins With Relationship
Zero Waste Network Aotearoa: Container Return Scheme Bill Would Double Recycling Rates And Put Money Back In Households
Wellington City Council: Statement From The Wellington Mayoral Forum On Options For Regional Governance Reform
MUNZ: TAIC Report On Kaitaki Incident Gives Shocking Picture Of Decline Of NZ Maritime Infrastructure
