My Account
If invasive weeds are a problem in your neighbourhood, there is a bunch of funding to help tackle the problem – double the amount available last year.
Local not-for-profit organisation Restore Hibiscus & Bays is on a mission to bring together, support and grow the network of community groups working in environmental conservation throughout the area.
This includes obtaining funding, which it passes on to groups and individuals who want to carry out pest plant control in a place that is special to them.
Last year a total of $20,000 funding was allocated to the region for small projects. It went to two projects locally – $2400 to support Hibiscus Coast Forest & Bird’s Pest Free programme, and $3000 for a contractor to control invasive weeds in Fairhaven walkway.
This year, thanks to a $30,000 Lotteries grant, the amount available for weed control has doubled to $40,000, plus an additional $10,000 for separate costs such as purchasing plants.
The money is to fund projects needing the support of a contractor to control weeds – such as on sites that have heavy weed infestation or are too challenging for volunteers to tackle alone. Examples might be school grounds, adjoining backyards or even public reserves. Although Auckland Council is responsible for the upkeep of its reserves, Restore Hibiscus & Bays manager Rachael Randal says limited funds means that Council focuses on areas with a lot of invasive species.
Funded projects will be supported by Restore Hibiscus & Bays, which can provide advice, plant control plans and coordinates contractors.
Applications are open until April 19. Info: www.restorehb.org.nz/resources-funding/
