Nearly $3m of funding from the Essential Freshwater Fund (EFF) has been awarded to NZ Landcare Trust to run the Aotearoa Catchment Extension programme – known as ACE.
ACE will deliver a nationwide capability development programme to 12 regions through four knowledge hubs and online learning modules to improve the capability of people working with catchment groups, including those who are leading and coordinating them. Funding for the project is $2,954,740 from the EFF, administered by Ministry for the Environment.
Additionally, a national database of resources and information will also be developed, and regional communities of practice will be established to target capability building work to regional needs and priorities.
The EFF is part of the Ministry for the Environment’s Jobs for Nature programme and supports the implementation of the Essential Freshwater reforms by investing in capability and capacity across the many roles associated with the freshwater management systems within Aotearoa.
NZ Landcare Trust CEO Dr Nick Edgar says the project strengthens the work the Trust has been renowned for throughout Aotearoa for the past 25 years, while bringing an enhanced focus to building the capability of those working with, in and for catchment groups.
“This project will create a long-lasting legacy for generations throughout our country, by supporting sustainable land management practices in catchments, and improving water quality for years to come,” says Nick.
“Building a strong knowledge base for those working with catchment groups through training and education on specific topics for the participants of ACE will see a flow on effect of empowerment for the catchment groups they support. It is an exciting time.”
