Chance to comment on river gravel management strategy closing soon

Environment Canterbury is seeking public comment on the draft river gravel management strategy.

The strategy aims to ensure that extraction of gravel from rivers is sustainably managed throughout Canterbury. Gravel is also extracted from land-based quarries, but the strategy does not cover this.

Active management of gravel provides for affordable flood hazard protection and sustainable economic development without compromising cultural, social and environmental outcomes and values.

Extracted gravel will play an important part in the rebuild of Christchurch. The impact of the earthquakes will place particular pressure on the supply of river gravel. There is also increasing demand from greater agricultural activity throughout Canterbury.

Environment Canterbury welcomes public comment on the draft strategy, which can be found at www.ecan.govt.nz/Gravel

Submissions close on 29 June 2012.