The current very wet winter is proving a challenge for valley residents – farmers and small blockers alike. We are fortunate to have missed the extreme weather events that have severely impacted many areas throughout the country and the roads have remained mostly passable. Waterways have had a decent clean out with the testing results generally returning lower readings for trace elements and e-coli although turbidity has been higher. We will attempt to have a community water quality report for the next newsletter for the trends from the 2 years we have been testing.
The Pohangina committee are planning to host Beef & Lamb facilitated workshops on Green House Gases 18th August and Winter Grazing and are planning a field day for November 5th aimed at small holders and lifestyle block owners. The content is still to be confirmed but revolve around land management and animal health. The group are also keen to re-establish the East vs West cricket competition and have set a date of 11th or 12th February 2023 – watch this space.
Manawatu River Catchments Collective continue to fund the 11 water testing sites monthly with funding they have received from MPI. MRCC have just received a further round of funding from MPI which will be used to continue providing support to the existing catchment groups in the Manawatu and is assisting a number of new groups to get established. There are currently catchment groups based at Pohangina, Upper Oroua/Kiwitea, Haynes Creek, Nguturoa/Linton, Stoney Creek, Mangaone West, Upper Tiraumea, Waitahora, Mangaone River (east coast) with new groups being established at Aptit (Oroua River), Moutoa & Upper Manawatu. The Phase 2 round of funding will allow groups to apply for funding for specific projects where community learning opportunities can be held. Some potential projects could include releasing dung beetles, wet land development, community planting & fencing projects, old mans beard & other plant pest control & establishing on-farm silt traps & bio-reactors.
Dates to note:
Beef & Lamb GHG workshop August 18th at Highland Home Smallholders field day November 5th East vs West Cricket match February 11 or 12 2023 Any questions, please do not hesitate to contact either Matt Carroll matthewescarroll@gmail.com 0272571425 or Lynda Gray kinross575@inspire.net.nz 0275648003