Dawn Creek Fencing

Fencing of the northern side of Dawn Creek to protect biodiversity values has been completed thanks to the efforts of multiple organisations and the landowner.

The project was chosen for financial support by the Hurunui-Waiau Water Management Zone Committee as part of its Immediate Steps biodiversity funding programme.

The project also received financial support from Environment Canterbury’s Environment Enhancement Fund and the QEII National Trust.

Environment Canterbury Biodiversity Officer Dr Jean-Marie Tompkins said the fencing will allow an area of native bush in the riparian margin to recover to its full ecological potential. This will provide a buffer which will protect this lowland stream from the effects of farming activities on adjacent land.

“As a result of this project, a large portion of Dawn Creek and its associated flora and fauna is now physically protected from livestock.

“The four party funding partnership has allowed the boundary fence to be completed to a standard that will provide the long term security required for optimal recovery of riparian bush and the stream,” said Dr Jean-Marie Tompkins.

The Hurunui-Waiau Zone Committee selected the project to receive $15,000 from its pool of $100,000 to support Year 1 biodiversity projects in the zone.

The landowner also made a significant contribution towards the cost of the fencing and retains responsibility for general pest and weed control in the area.

Through the Immediate Steps programme, $2 million is available each year for protecting and restoring biodiversity in and around freshwater habitats. Of this, two thirds comes from Environment Canterbury rates, and one third comes from land owner contributions.

The ‘Immediate Steps’ biodiversity programme was launched in 2010 as part of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy. It provides $10 million for protection and restoration projects in Canterbury over five years.