Tukituki Land Care: an evidence-based catchment planning project underway

“We need a clearer understanding of the key issues affecting each sub-catchment, and we need action that farmers can afford. There will be no rules or regulations, and no one will be forced to take action.”

Colin Tyler, a respected local farmer and TLC board member, will oversee the project. With a wealth of experience in the rural sector, including as Ravensdown’s Principal Environmental Consultant, Tyler is committed to ensuring the project delivers practical, cost-effective outcomes.

“We’re looking for ways to mitigate impacts on the farm that not only improve water quality in the watershed but can also increase productivity and sustainability on the farm,” Tyler said. “It’s about finding solutions that are beneficial to both the environment and the farm, and that are also affordable.”

Once the research is complete, TLC will launch THR3E—three practical steps that farmers in every watershed can implement over the next three years.

“We will host events in each watershed in March to share our findings and connect with local farmers and community members,” Hilson said.

“You can expect good food, beer and valuable conversation.”

The project will be managed by environmental planning consultancy Environment, Innovation and Strategy Ltd (EIS) under the chairmanship of co-director Matt Highway.

With over 20 years of experience in catchment management, Highway is enthusiastic about this initiative.

“Operating at this scale is a fantastic opportunity to develop meaningful, community-focused solutions,” he said.

“Some sub-catchments may focus on erosion or water quality, while others may be concerned with flooding, pest control or invasive weeds. Our goal is to explore these issues in more detail and help farmers determine where they can get the greatest return on their investment.”

The EIS will use a range of research tools, examining factors such as soil type, water quality, biodiversity, land use, demographics and natural hazards. The research will also include site visits and discussions with landowners to ensure the plans reflect local expertise and realities on the ground.

“Farmer input is crucial to developing practical and effective solutions,” Tyler said.

Furthermore, the plans will be aligned with future national environmental policies to ensure that the recommended solutions are future-proof.

“We want to save farmers from investing time and money in practices that may soon become illegal under the new regulations,” Hilson said.

“Aligning our approach with national policy will ensure farmers do not waste valuable time.”

Tukituki Land Care was launched in May last year to support sub-catchment groups in the Tukituki River by providing funding and activities for the region. The farmer-led collective received $970,000 from the Ministry of Primary Industries over three years and has since become a significant player in the catchment. To learn more about the organisation, visit www.tukitukilandcare.org.