Locals rally to reverse catchment area decline

A sustainability initiative is underway in Hawkes Bay to reverse severe erosion and water quality issues that are impacting on the long-term social, environmental and economic sustainability of the area.

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is running a series of workshops with local residents to identify ways to improve the productivity and sustainability of the Whakaki (Hawke's Bay) catchment.

“We're partnering with the Whakaki community, including iwi, farmers and foresters to identify a common vision for the future of the catchment and explore opportunities that will work for everyone," says Ben Dalton, who is responsible for regional economic growth at the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI).

The broad consensus among the local community is that immediate action is needed in order to stabilise erosion-prone farm land to minimise soil loss into the lake, improve water quality, trial alternative sustainable and economically viable land use options, and enhance the overall living standard of the local community.

The workshops are part of a collaboration between the Ministry for Primary Industries, Hawkes Bay Regional Council and the Wairoa District Council.

Image credit: HBRC