27 September 2012
Call for community to get behind river clean up

Community groups and non-profit organisations are being encouraged to get involved with Manawatu River clean-up efforts under a new grants initiative coordinated by the Manawatu River Leaders’ Forum.

The new grants funding is part of the $5.2 million awarded to the Forum following a successful bid to Central Government’s Fresh Start for Freshwater Clean-Up Fund and is designed to help engage the community in improving the river.

Horizons Regional Council chief executive Michael McCartney describes the funding as “a chance for community groups to engage positively and constructively in addressing water quality issues in the catchment”.

“We know there are some fantastic ideas and skills out there in our community and we’re eager to work together and support these projects on the ground for the benefit of our river, our community and our region,” he says.

The grants are also an opportunity for groups to tap into support and advice from river leaders and will help accelerate progress towards achieving goals set out in the Manawatu River Accord.

A funding pool of $90,000 is available each year over the next two years and groups including schools, early childhood centres and iwi/hapu groups must apply by October 30 2012.

Funding criteria and application forms are available online at www.manawaturiver.co.nz
Ends
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Notes to editor:
The goal of the Manawatu River Accord is to improve the Manawatu River, the mauri (lifeforce) of the Manawatu River Catchment, such that it sustains fish species, and is suitable for contact recreation, in balance with the social, cultural and economic activities of the catchment community.

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