Media release
22 October 2013

Community invited to play its part in local water management

People throughout Canterbury are being invited to express their interest in joining one of the water management committees set up in 2010 and 2011 as part of the collaborative Canterbury Water Management Strategy.

Christina Robb, Programme Manager Canterbury Water Management Strategy, said the committees are looking for new people who can see others’ points of views and who can work collaboratively to find solutions for water issues.

“The Canterbury Water Management Strategy is an innovative approach to managing fresh water. It’s about finding the best balance between restoring our environment while providing for viable farming and communities throughout the region.

“The work going on as part of the Strategy will help to ensure safe drinking water supplies, sustainable farming practices and clean rivers and streams, as well as enhancing recreational opportunities and protecting environment and cultural values.

“We are sure there are many people in Canterbury who are passionate about making a positive difference in water management and we encourage them to put their names forward by filling out an expression of interest form,” she said.

Eight of the 11 water management committees in Canterbury are looking for new members either as part of a refresh process or to replace members who have resigned. This includes the Regional Committee which is inviting expressions of interests for all seven community members.

The six zone committees looking to refresh members are Ashburton; Hurunui-Waiau; Selwyn-Waihora, Waimakariri, Orari-Opihi-Pareora; and Upper Waitaki. A replacement member is also being sought for the Christchurch-West Melton zone committee.

Candidates must be able to attend the committee meetings, and live in or have a significant relationship with the zone or region they are applying for. Candidates will be notified by Friday 8 November 2013 if they have been shortlisted.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to participate in a selection workshop at which they will be asked to make a presentation and participate in an assessment workshop.

The remaining three zone committees (Banks Peninsula, Kaikoura, and Lower Waitaki – South Coastal Canterbury) will wait until 2014 to refresh their community membership due to recent changes.

If you would like more information or to fill out an expression of interest form please visit www.ecan.govt.nz/canterburywater or phone Environment Canterbury Customer Services on 0800 324 636.

Expressions of interest are due by 4 November 2013.

ENDS

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