Ten Farmers and Community Members Launch Upper Waikirikiri Catchment Collective.

In a landmark move towards environmental stewardship and community collaboration, ten forward-thinking farmers and community members have formally established the Upper Waikirikiri Catchment Collective as an Incorporated Society. Last month, dedicated individuals came together to sign the founding documents, marking a significant milestone for the Upper Waikirikiri/Selwyn foothills region.

The Collective's formation signifies a promising trajectory for environmental stewardship within the Selwyn foothills. The collaborative efforts by farmers and community members are key in addressing ecological challenges, fostering sustainability, and improving management practices. With strong support from local authorities and funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries, the Collective is well-positioned to implement sustainable land and water management strategies that will benefit both the ecosystem and the local agricultural community. By uniting collective action and shared expertise, the Upper Waikirikiri Catchment Collective is set to make significant contributions to the region's environmental resilience and agricultural viability.

Reflecting on the significance of this endeavour, Tracey Perkins, NZ Landcare Trust Regional Coordinator and key figure in establishing the Collective, remarked, "The Upper Waikirikiri Catchment Collective represents our commitment to our land, communities, and future generations. It's more than a collaborative effort; it's a shared vision for a sustainable and thriving future in the Selwyn catchment."

The establishment of the Collective has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including local authorities such as the Member of Parliament Nicola Grigg, Selwyn District Council Mayor Sam Broughton, and Central Plains Water CEO Susan Goodfellow.

“Our coordinated efforts have secured funding from the Ministry for Primary Industries to assist farmers in monitoring water quality through testing and taking essential measures, such as wetland protection and riparian planting,” said Ken Wragg, a farmer and member of the Upper Waikirikiri catchment group. “This initiative also provides farmers with the necessary support and resources to complete individual farm environmental plans, thereby enhancing the long-term health of the Waikirikiri catchment. It cultivates a sense of solidarity among farmers.”

The group is fortunate to have Lydia Gliddon as Chair. With a family history of farming locally for generations, Lydia is enthusiastic about the opportunities the Upper Waikirikiri Catchment Collective will bring. Lydia states, “The positive impact of preserving our resources for future generations cannot be overstated. As stewards of the land, it is our responsibility to protect the rich agricultural heritage of Selwyn and to ensure it thrives for years to come. The efforts of catchment groups play a pivotal role in achieving this by preserving soil, protecting water quality, and enhancing biodiversity.”