Taranaki economy shifts from oil and gas to dairy as leading export
The Taranaki region is enjoying one of the highest gross domestic product (GDP) per capita figures in New Zealand, thanks to high farmgate dairy prices.
Taranaki Landowners with planting projects planned for winter may be eligible for assistance.
But the Taranaki Tree Trust says landowners must act now to secure funding.
The trust is calling for applications until March 1 for its first funding round for the year. It makes grants to support Taranaki projects which protect and restore wetlands, bush remnants, the coast and wildlife habitat. It is also keen to support projects which enhance community areas such as maraes, schools and reserves.
Grants of between $300 and $5,000 will be made. The trust will contribute up to 75% of the total cost of a school or community group project, and up to 50% for a project on private land. The total cost includes cash, and the dollar value of any 'in kind' contributions such as labour.
Applicants will be notified of the outcome in April and those who secure funding must use it within two years.
Applications can be made online using the trust's newly launched website, www.taranakitreetrust.org.nz, or application forms can be obtained from the trust co-ordinator, Leigh Honnor, ph 0800 736 222 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Academic Dr Mike Joy and his employer, Victoria University of Wellington have apologised for his comments suggesting that dairy industry CEOs should be hanged for contributing towards nitrate poisoning of waterways.
Environment Southland's catchment improvement funding is once again available for innovative landowners in need of a boost to get their project going.
The team meeting at the Culverden Hotel was relaxed and open, despite being in the middle of calving when stress levels are at peak levels, especially in bitterly cold and wet conditions like today.
A comment by outspoken academic Dr Mike Joy suggesting that dairy industry leaders should be hanged for nitrate contamination of drinking/groundwater has enraged farmers.
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