Applications open for Natural Environments Fund

Update: The application period for the Natural Environments Fund has been extended until Friday 14 October.

South Taranaki District Council is now accepting applications for the Natural Environments Fund.

The purpose of the Natural Environments Fund is to promote the protection, restoration, or enhancement of areas of significant indigenous biodiversity or significant habitats of indigenous fauna on private land throughout the District.

“Many of the remaining indigenous species and ecosystems of our District are threatened. The Natural Environments Fund encourages private landowners to work alongside Council and other agencies to help protect and enhance areas of significant indigenous biodiversity remaining on private land in our District,” says Environment and Sustainability Manager Rebecca Martin.

Applications to the Natural Environments Fund open on 1 August 2022. The application form can be found online at www.southtaranaki.com/NEF and applications will be accepted until 5pm on 11 September.

Individuals, trusts, incorporated societies, and other groups are eligible to apply. Funded project sites must either already have permanent legal protection status or be prepared to seek legal protection status within twelve months of receiving funding.

Natural Environments Fund applications are expected to include non-Council co-funding contributions to the project. Depending on the project type, applicants and/or co-funders must contribute between 50-66% to the total project cost, with Council funding the balance. An applicant’s contribution towards the total project costs does not need to be financial and can include volunteer time or in-kind support.

This Fund aligns with the goals and outcomes in Council’s Environment and Sustainability Strategy and 2021-31 Long Term Plan.

Applicants are encouraged to direct any queries to envirosus@stdc.govt.nz or call 0800 111 323 and ask for the Environment and Sustainability Team.