River Accord calls for community involvement

Applications are being sought for the next round of Manawatu River Leaders’ Accord community grants, with a focus on projects that engage the community in water quality restoration within the Manawatu Catchment.

The initiative has provided funding for 14 community projects over the past two years and Horizons Regional Council freshwater coordinator Lucy Ferguson is looking forward to supporting further work.

“We’ve assisted with a range of projects from streamside fencing and planting through to a hikoi along the Tokomaru River to engage the local community with their river and identify areas for restoration work, all of which have contributed to the goals of the Accord,” Ms Ferguson says.

“We’re now seeking new projects that will engage and mobilise communities in cleaning up the River. A strong preference will be shown towards physical ‘on the ground’ work.”

Applications to the grants fund will be assessed on their environmental benefits, feasibility, community involvement and long-term benefits to the region. Grants may be awarded for one or two years depending on requirements of the project.

More information and application forms are available via the Manawatu River website www.manawaturiver.co.nz

Applications close 4pm Friday 7 November 2014.

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