The Chair welcomes community members who attended recent sessions in Mayfield and Hinds. The report emphasizes the critical importance of community support for a proposed targeted rate in Environment Canterbury's 2021-31 Long Term Plan to enable continuation of the Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) project. Submission deadline: April 11.
Scheme Update
The MAR project, combined with improved land use practices, is deemed essential for meeting environmental outcomes under Plan Change 2 to Canterbury's Land and Water Regional Plan and the Essential Freshwater NPS FM 2020. The report states: "There is no plan B!"
Five-year proof of concept results demonstrate:
- Significantly lower nitrate concentrations
- Increased groundwater levels up to 7km down-gradient from larger MAR sites
- Increased Hekeao Hinds River flow during MAR site operation
- Additional biodiversity gains at MAR sites
Business Case Findings
Without targeted rate funding, projections include:
- Increased on-farm mitigation requirements
- Higher on-farm costs and capital value reductions
- Farm productivity and stocking rate reductions
- Environment dominated by regulation and litigation
Economic projections with MAR:
- $190 million additional economic activity potential
- $35 million for local district
- Capital costs: $6 million (from 2022)
- Annual operational costs: $0.4-$1.7 million
- Additional biodiversity improvements: $400,000
Targeted Rate Breakdown
Three-zone rating system (per $100,000 property value):
| Zone | Year 1 (2021/22) | Year 2 (2022/23) | Year 2 Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Hill and downs (extensive farming) | $7.22 | $3.31 | $9.79 |
| Lower A Plains (shallower soils) | $28.90 | $13.23 | $39.15 |
| Lower B Coastal drainage area | $28.90 | $13.23 | $39.15 |
Contact: Peter Lowe, Chair, Mobile: 0272233784