Forestry boost for Bay of Plenty

Some 345 hectares of new forest is to be planted in the Bay of Plenty region via the first round of funding from the government's Afforestation Grants Scheme.

The scheme will see $22.5 million invested over the next six years to encourage the planting of an expected 15,000 hectares of new forest throughout New Zealand.


Todd Muller hopes the plantings will help to boost the region's economy. Photo: File.

Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller says: 'Through this grant, 345 hectares in the region will be planted, making better use of marginal and erosion-prone land and helping our farmers and land owners increase land diversification.

'Priority was given to applicants addressing environmental issues such as erosion.

'This additional planting will lead to improved water quality and a reduced impact from the effects of severe flooding.

'Over the life cycle of these trees the Afforestation Grants Scheme is expected to make a significant contribution to the forestry industry and support services, increase jobs and help grow the Bay of Plenty economy.”

Successful applicants for the first round of funding were informed today, and will receive $1,300 per hectare for new forest planting.

The next round of funding will open in April next year for planting in winter 2017.

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