Rural update July 2022
‘For Māori, Te Taiao is the natural world that contains and surrounds humanity in an interconnected relationship of respect.’
Knowledge into Action for Te Taiao
Te Taiao is a concept that many New Zealanders living and working on the land can identify with. ‘Knowledge into Action for Te Taiao’ is a new project for WAI Wānaka, funded through Our Land & Water National Science Challenge.
This project proposes that if we put Te Taiao (the natural world) at the heart of decision making, then land use and land management decisions will result in a positive effect on the environment and provide value chain opportunities for landowners.
This initiative invites us to weave together knowledge systems – mātauranga Māori, science and local landowner knowledge – to address changes in the environment, climate, regulations and consumer behaviour, and identify market opportunities to future proof our farming systems and revitalise Te Taiao.
WAI will be working with catchment groups, landowners, iwi and the community to understand how this project can fast track environmental objectives with a Te Taiao lens in a way that authenticates progress for industry, market and consumers.
Spring Planting
Talk to us about planting sites for this Spring. Whether it’s planting for carbon, water quality, or biodiversity our ‘Jobs for Nature’ field team may be able to help you get plants in the ground this spring season.
Click here to register interest, and we’ll be in touch to discuss your project.
Have you considered mulching for controlling weed competition around your plants?
Using old sileage/baleage, woodchip from trees cut down on farm, or carpet squares can be a great way to help your plants thrive.
Some additional benefits of mulching can include:
– water retention
– temperature regulation
– feeding soil biology
– reduces maintenance (once a year vs twice for spraying)
If you have access to any mulch materials it can be a cost efficient and beneficial way to increase plant survival. At planting time, the WAI team can spread mulch around plants to help them survive dry summers and weed competition.
Job Opportunity
Do you know someone who loves the primary sector and is looking for an opportunity to work with landowners in the Upper Clutha, supporting them to achieve their environmental goals? WAI is hiring a full time Farm Lead.
This role will be suited to a positive individual who understands farming and can support change through facilitation of groups, and then delivering results by connecting landowners to the necessary skills, knowledge or expertise. If you know someone that fits the bill, please direct them to our jobs page to find out more!
EVENTS
Catchment Leaders Forum Day
with Otago Catchment Community & NZ Landcare Trust
- Guest speaker and workshop sessions
- Connect to other groups around Otago
- Learn how OCC’s funding is being utilised amongst groups
- Updates on Catchments Otago Research topics
Where: Alexandra Community Centre, Skird Street
When: July 29th
Time: Doors open 9am – 4pm
Numbers strictly limited.
Please RSVP to OCC admin@otagocatchments.co.nz
Please let OCC know if you have any dietary requirements.