Community
Landcare is about looking after our land and other resources together as a community.
We all depend on land for food, water and a place to live, work and play. Problems such as soil erosion, nutrient run-off into water and the spread of pests and weeds can affect our continued use and enjoyment of the land. Landcare groups provide a way of addressing these common problems.
What is a Landcare Group?
A Landcare group is a group of people who work together voluntarily on resource management issues, setting their own rules but seeking outside assistance when necessary. Landcare groups involve rural and/or urban families and often include representatives from local authorities, businesses and environmental groups, all committed to managing their land resource sustainably. A group may be in the country or town or a city.
Types of Landcare Projects
Landcare groups usually start in response to one problem, but may then go on to deal with other issues. Examples of Landcare projects include:
- Planting trees for erosion control
- Stream fencing and replanting
- Pest control
- Planting to stabilise beach dunes
- Field days on sustainable practices
- Preparing submissions on council plans
- Learning how to monitor land and water
- Beautifying a local reserve
Why Should I Work in a Landcare Group?
A group working collectively can have much more effect than one person working on their own and have the added advantage of working on issues that span more than one property or catchment. Because of this you benefit from:
- People sharing ideas and learning from each other
- Group members bringing a variety of perspectives
- Working in a group which helps keep up your level of motivation and enthusiasm
- Finding it easier to access expert advice and funding as a group
- A sense of community pride in what your group does
Landcare groups that are currently active in Southland are:
- Bluff Hill Motupohue Environment Trust
- Dipton Landcare Group
- Makarewa Landcare Group
- Myross Bush Landcare Group
- Lower Mataura Landcare Group
- Otatara Landcare Group
- Riverton Landcare Group
- Stewart Island/Rakiura Community and Environmental Trust
- Te Anau Landcare Group
- Waituna Landcare Group
If you are interested in becoming a member of one of these groups or starting up your own Landcare group please contact the Land Sustainability team at Environment Southland.
Environment Southland is the brand name of Southland Regional Council.