Agenda of Environment and Services Committee

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Environment and Services Committee

Wednesday 13 August 2014

SUBJECT: Update on Karamu Enhancement Work

Reason for Report

1. Te Karamu Catchment Review and Options for Enhancement is a significant project adopted by Council in February 2004. It has been nearly a decade since the decision and it is appropriate to look back over that time and discuss the achievements to date.

2. This paper provides a succinct outline of the project’s objectives and work carried out since 2007 when physical work on the project began. It also seeks approval from Council to delegate authority to the Chief Executive for ongoing negotiation and potential purchase of a parcel of land in the vicinity of the confluence of the Karamu and Ruapare Streams.

Background

3. The project is part of the Heretaunga Plains Flood Control and Drainage Scheme, specifically under Rating Area 6, project 296-Karamu and Tributaries and project 288-HP Special Projects (Clive River).

4. The original proposal in 2004 was for total project works costing $14 M made up of $5M construction costs, $8M enhancement costs and $1M land taking costs.

5. Physical works initially started in 2007 with an allocation of $100,000 per annum plus an additional $10,000 for maintenance, increasing by $10,000 each year to cover the previous year’s enhancement work. The annual amounts have remained more or less the same for the past eight years and recently an additional $40,000 per year was allocated specifically for use on marae based enhancement work in the Karamu catchment. This is to recognize the value Māori place on restoring the waterways and the willingness of hapu to work with Council on achieving good outcomes for the health of the river.

6. The project is part of the Asset Management Team responsibilities managed by the Engineering Section with site work, implementation and maintenance managed by the Open Spaces team. The Works Group and Science team are also involved in the project from time to time.

7. Te Karamu project is about natural asset management which means that it is an integrated approach of managing not only the essential functions of drainage and flood hazard mitigation, but as well the relationship between the land and the water. The emphasis is on planning and management to take into account the natural dynamics and diversity of waterways and work with nature to protect and enhance ecological values.

8. There is no doubt that some of the development practices that have delivered prosperity to the wider Heretaunga Plains community have simultaneously compromised the natural waterway resources. Poor water quality from both urban and rural sources is an undesirable feature of the current Karamu waterway; disliked by the public and deeply offensive to Māori, particularly hapu who have lived beside and been nourished by the waterways for centuries. This project is taking the first steps to remedy the situation and bring Te Karamu back to health. Toitū te taiao, toitū te tangata (If the environment is healthy, then the people will prosper).

9. This project includes many of Council’s key strategic goals around sustainability, water, open spaces, partnerships with Māori and operational activities. It directly relates to good social, cultural and environmental wellbeing and has been a catalyst in formulating the Council Waterway Management Philosophy.

10. This philosophy, endorsed by Council in August 2007 is for streams and drains administered as part of a Council flood control and drainage scheme flowing through public land to be managed using a multi-value approach, which where appropriate creates improved ecological, recreational, heritage, cultural, landscape and drainage values within the waterway network, and that communities take ownership of, and have pride in, their waterways.

Progress to Date

11. Part of the physical construction works involves removal of the floodgates at Pakowhai and widening the channel above the floodgates. A favourable opportunity to purchase land on the right bank of the Karamu Stream (from PPCS) was carried out early in the project to enable the widening to take place, sometime in the future. The bulk of this widening will be carried out (in 2015) through an agreement reached with HDC as part of the Whakatu Arterial Link Road, using the excavated soil for the bridge approach filling.

12. Negotiations have been ongoing over the removal of the floodgates and carrying out work around the Pakiaka urupa. This is a culturally significant area and past grievances over the mishandling of sensitive burial areas still linger. Agreement in principle has now been reached subject to the purchase of the link road surplus land provision for an alternative urupa. Negotiations with the landowner and HDC are continuing as is planning for this area. With the goodwill of all involved the Pakowhai area provides an exciting regional development opportunity (as indicated in the Te Karamu report) that provides a link with Pakowhai Country Park together with being able to highlight some of the Māori and early European history in the area. This location is rich in history with some wonderful stories associated with the area. Staff will present to Council more detail on the opportunities and suggestions for the area at the meeting.

13. Staff are keen to progress these discussions, but require Council agreement to potential unbudgeted expenditure should ongoing negotiations lead to the opportunity to purchase land necessary to achieve this outcome. Staff propose that the purchase be funded from the Heretaunga Flood Control and Drainage Scheme – Rivers, which holds a credit balance of approximately $400,000 at the close of the 2013/14 financial year. It should be noted however that 30% of all operational and capital expenditure under this Scheme is sourced from general funding. It is proposed that the general funded portion of this purchase amount is funded from the community facilities borrowing provision provided for in the Annual Plan.

14. Riparian planting has been a significant part of the work to date and has certainly been a popular activity with a great number of the public and interested groups including local hapu. An offshoot of the project has been Operation Patiki run by Kohupatiki Marae and supported by HBRC. This operation involves survey of the Patiki (Black Flounder) to look at the decline in numbers and possible causes. The operation also has a considerable planting and maintenance programme to look after their section of the Clive River with support when requested from HBRC. Other marae in the Karamu catchment have similar aims and we are working alongside them to help achieve common goals.

15. Likewise many of the neighbouring properties are doing their own planting and assistance is provided by HBRC as required. The list below includes most of the groups and individuals HBRC has supported.

Adjacent landowners HBRC has supported include:

· Nick Pattison (LB between Bridges in Havelock North)

· Cliff Poynter (LB between Bridges in Havelock North)

· Tony Neil (Whakatu)

· Alistar Curtis (Napier Rd)

· Gareth Donnelly

· Hamish & Andrea Gibbs (Grassmere Rd)

· Kay Walker (Napier Rd)

· Bruce McMillan (Farmlet Rd)

Marae & Community Groups HBRC has supported include:

· Karamu Enhancement Group (KEG) (Havelock North)

· Clive Community Group (Clive)

· Kohupatiki Marae

· Whakatu (Des Ratima / Aki Paiper)

· Forest & Bird (Whakatu, Ruahapia, Pakipaki)

· Houngarea Marae (Pakipaki)

· Ruahapia Marae (Representing the 4 Marae of Ngati Hawea)

· Mangaroa Marae (Bridge Pa)

· Karongata Marae (Bridge Pa)

· Genesis Shadehouses in schools

· Flaxmere College (practical work streams)

· Various schools

· Hohepa residents

· Mary Doyle life care complex

In terms of schools and education we have provided planting and education opportunities for 10 plus schools in any given year on Te Karamu project.

16. Enhancement work to date is shown in the following table:

DATE	LOCATION	ACTIVITY
2007: Stage 1	Right bank, upstream of Herehere confluence to Gilpin Rd.	Approx. 0.83 km. Wetland creation, extensive planting, weed control. 41,727 plants.
2008: Stage 2	Right Bank downstream of Crosses Road	Approx. 1 km. Preparation and planting. Modified plant species based on what was learnt from stage 1. 15,739 plants Land ownership / agreements. Maintenance.
2009: Stage 3	Herehere to Crosses Rd.	Approx. 1.9 km. Existing parkland setting, outfall plantings, stream edge planting and infill planting. 7,000 plants. Initial planting at Kohupatiki (3,000 plants).
2010: Stage 4	Anderson Park to Herehere Stream	Approx. 0.75 km. Edge planting and infill. 3,500 plants. Kohupatiki 1,500 plants
2011: Stage 5	Ruahapia, opposite marae. Kohupatiki, LB Clive	Approx 1.2 km. Stormwater outlet wetland created (Ruahapia Drain). 12,000 plants
2012: Stage 6	Ruahapia	Ruahapia Stage 2, 12,457 plants Whakatu planting assistance and Awanui at Pakipaki.
2013: Stage 7	Ruahapia to SH2 Bridge RB between Havelock Bridges	Ruahapia Stage 3 from rail bridge upstream 0.8 km. Whakatu and Awanui. 14,906 plants
2014:	Infill and replacement of stages 1 to 7. Poukawa Stream, Pakipaki Karewarewa, Bridge Pa	Time needed to catch-up on all the previous work. Replace lost plants and more maintenance. Marae based work continued. Whakatu planting. Work with neighbouring properties. Work on Poukawa Stream at Pakipaki to link with Peka Peka swamp. Bridge Pa preparation and planting. 5,699 plants
	Total	In excess of 114,500 plants have been planted since 2007. Many of the areas planted are due to be selectively planted with larger tree species in the coming years now that good ground cover is getting established.

17. The next steps in this project are:

a. Continue with the annual enhancement works

b. Prepare plans for Pakowhai area

c. Remove old floodgates

d. Carry out channel works and develop Pakowhai area.

18. Te Karamu project resulted in some significant improvements in the riparian areas where work has been done to date. There remains a significant amount of work still to be carried out to complete the report objectives. Progress is dependent on available funds which generally means about 800 metres per side is currently achievable each year. For the Karamu Stream and the Awanui there is over 32 km of river in addition to the major tributaries.

19. Despite the daunting task still ahead there has been great relationships developed and support for the project from a wide range of people and organisations keen and willing to help. Although progress appears slow, there is never-the-less clear evidence of the success of this project to date.

Decision Making Process

20. Council is required to make every decision in accordance with Part 6 Sub-Part 1, of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Staff have assessed the requirements contained within this section of the Act in relation to this item and have concluded the following:

20.1. The decision does not significantly alter the service provision or affect a strategic asset.

20.2. The use of the special consultative procedure is not prescribed by legislation.

20.3. The decision does not fall within the definition of Council’s policy on significance.

20.4. The persons affected by this decision the potential users of the open space area and people with mana whenua over the land in the vicinity of the confluence of the Karamu and Raupare Streams.

20.5. This is part of an initiative for the enhancement of the Karamu Stream and its environs. It is more specifically an essential part of a project to remove the old Karamu floodgates which are an impediment to the flood capacity of the Karamu Stream. Significant discussions and negotiations with people with mana whenua over this land have been held over the past several years with many options being explored.

20.6. The decision is not inconsistent with an existing policy or plan.

20.7. Given the nature and significance of the issue to be considered and decided, and also the persons likely to be affected by, or have an interest in the decisions made, Council can exercise its discretion and make a decision without further consulting directly with the community or others having an interest in the decision.

Recommendations

That the Environment and Services Committee receives the report.

The Environment and Services Committee recommends that Council:

1. Agrees that the decisions to be made are not significant under the criteria contained in Council’s adopted policy on significance and that Council can exercise its discretion under Sections 79(1)(a) and 82(3) of the Local Government Act 2002 and make decisions on this issue without conferring directly with the community and persons likely to be affected by or to have an interest in the decision due to the nature and significance of the issue to be considered and decided.

2. Delegates authority to the Chief Executive to purchase land in the vicinity of the confluence of the Karamu and Raupare Streams to enable the facilitation of the removal of the old Karamu flood gate structure, provide for the possible expansion of the Pakowhai Regional Park, and potentially to enable an area to be set aside for an urupa; with 70% of the funding being sourced from the Heretaunga Plains Flood Control Scheme – Rivers, and 30% from the community facilities borrowing provision.

Gary Clode

Manager Engineering

Mike Adye

Group Manager

Asset Management

Attachment/s

There are no attachments for this report.

Land Management Operational Plan 2014/15

Attachment 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................... 3

2. LAND MANAGEMENT TEAM ROLE.......................................................................... 3

3. LAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS ......................................................................... 4

3.1 Supporting policy Implementation of Plan Change 6 in the Tukituki Catchment............................................................................................................. 4

3.2 A more strategic approach to hill country resource management.......................................................................................................... 5

3.3 Improving environmental performance of forestry.......................................... 7

3.4 Environmental enhancement and biodiversity protection.............................. 7

4. 2014-15 LAND MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY................................................................. 8

4.1 Foresight & strategy......................................................................................... 8

4.2 Investment....................................................................................................... 10

4.3 Strategic Alliances........................................................................................... 14

4.4 Fit for purpose organisation............................................................................. 16

5. PROGRAM ALIGNMENT AND DELIVERABLES 2013-14......................................... 16

6. SUMMARY.................................................................................................................. 17

7. APPENDICES............................................................................................................. 18

1.0 INTRODUCTION

This operational plan describes how the Land Management Team (LMT) of the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) will meet its objectives as outlined in the Long Term Plan (LTP). The operational plan will be presented to Council for approval at the commencement of each financial year. Performance against the operational plan will be presented to Council within five months of the close of a financial year. This operational plan is effective from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015. The plan documents the following:

· The role of the Land Management Team in the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.

· The link between LMT activity for the period 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 and the outcomes outlined in the HBRC Strategic Plan, HB Land & Water Management Strategy and Long Term Plan.

· The key program areas for the LMT and its response to address these issues.

· The LMT program activities for 2014-15.

2.0 LAND MANAGEMENT TEAMS ROLE

The LMT’s areas of focus and objectives are set by the HBRC Strategic Plan and Land and Water Management Strategy outcomes and outputs. Actions and performance targets to achieve these strategic objectives are defined by the LTP via the strategic enablers of – foresight and strategy, investment, strategic alliances and a fit for purpose organisation. The operational plan shows how the LMT’s annual activities will lead to the achievement of long term plan and annual plan performance targets and contribute towards achieving the outcomes of the Strategic Plan as shown in Appendix 1.

The LMT plays a key role in implementing the non-regulatory policies and programs of the HBRC and in facilitating the wider adoption of sustainable land management throughout the Hawke’s Bay Region, in accordance with HBRC Resource Management Plans. The LMT structure is shown in figure 1.

Organization Chart Figure 1. Land Management team structure

3.0 LAND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM AREAS

The LMT’s program focus for the following financial year is around the following key themes

· Supporting policy Implementation of Plan Change 6 (PC6) in the Tukituki Catchment.

· A more strategic approach to hill country resource management

· Improving environmental performance of forestry in the region

· Environmental enhancement and biodiversity protection

3.1 Supporting policy Implementation of Plan Change 6 in the Tukituki Catchment

Significant work is currently occurring across HBRC in developing an Implementation Plan for PC6 by 31 December 2014 and in considering the logistical and resource implications of that plan on our Long Term Planning process. Both of these processes will have a significant impact on Land Managements future operational activities, as the group will play a key role in the implementation of PC6.

Land Managements role in the implementation process was outlined in the Draft Tukituki Catchment Implementation Plan (TCIP) (Heath 2012) and adopted by Council 27 February 2013. The EPA Boards final decision for PC6 differed to that which the TCIP was originally written for and while that final decision endorsed significant components of the TCIP it also brought a number of new and additional demands on the Land Management team that will need to be considered over the next 6 months. For example clarifying the teams role in the preparation of 1042 Farm Environmental Management Plans (FEMP’s) now required in PC6. A brief outline of Land Management’s potential role in PC6 implementation includes -

· The priority sub-catchment program currently being piloted in the Papanui catchment, which gives effect to PC6 Objective TT2, “Where the quality of fresh water has been degraded by human activities to such an extent that OBJ TT1 is not being achieved, water quality shall not be allowed to degrade further and it shall be improved progressively over time, so that OBJ TT1 is achieved by 2030”.

· Utilising our strategic alliances with the primary sector in the development of programs and process such as the Memorandum of Understanding for Industry Good Practice – Phosphorus, signed by nearly all members of the HB Pan Sector Group in October 2012, that help give effect to PC6 Objective TT4a “To recognise that industry good practice for land and water management can assist with achieving Objective TT1, TT2 and TT4”.

· Providing key support to the achievement of Objective TT1 “To sustainably manage the use and development of land, the discharge of contaminants including nutrients, and the taking, using damming or diverting of fresh water in the Tukituki Catchment” through the following key functions –

o Providing support to communities and individuals in interpreting, understanding and applying the new rules and regulations within PC6 cost effectively and technically appropriate on-farm.

o Helping build capacity in the region to deliver the 1042 FEMP’s required by 1 July 2018 through -

§ Supporting the development of FEMP delivery capacity by liaising closely with potential providers.

§ The development of templates and procedural guidelines in collaboration with the primary sector and private consultants to ensure the FEMP are delivered consistently and effectively across the region

§ Providing the delivery of FEMP’s in priority sub-catchments where the intensity and complexity of FEMP’s needs to be sufficient to “claw back” degraded water quality.

§ Technical auditing – ensuring that FEMP’s undertaken by external providers are appropriate and effective in realising the water quality objectives in PC6.

3.2 A more strategic approach to hill country resource management

The provincial economies of the East Coast of the North Island are heavily dependent on the use of their hill country resource. The hill country represents perhaps our greatest potential opportunity for economic growth but it is also one of the greatest liabilities in achieving the sustainable use of natural resources in the region.

Hawke’s Bay has one of the highest rates of hill country erosion in New Zealand, and New Zealand one of the highest rates of erosion in the world. This erosion results in the loss of the productive capacity, carbon, nutrients and potential water storage of soils. Offsite impacts include sedimentation of waterways, river aggradation and damage to infrastructure (McKay 2008).

Sedimentation is a major threat to the region’s water quality, and is a key issue to be considered as part of our implementation of the National Policy Statement – Freshwater. Reducing soil erosion and sedimentation is complex because it occurs in landscapes where geology, climate, and farm incomes combine to create few viable but costly solutions to the problem, which often exist in competition to landholder’s short and long term economic and environmental goals for their properties. It is an issue that requires a new and innovative approach to how we deal with this challenge.

The current primary mechanism for addressing this issue is the Regional Landcare Scheme’s (RLS) pole planting program, subsidisation of the Soil Conservation Nursery and support to landholders by staff for the planning and implementation of soil conservation programs and tailored farm plans. These processes have had a significant impact at reducing soil erosion in hill country throughout Hawke’s Bay (an estimated 440,000 poplar and willow trees planted on 11,000ha) but this equates to only around 7% of the 150,000 ha of steep highly erodible farmland in the region.

A new approach is being considered as part of the East Coast Hill Country Resilience proposal. The proposal is effectively looking at forming an adaptive governance group involving central, regional and local government, primary sector, Iwi, land holders and community members along the East Coast of the North Island. The group will consider the long term and holistic social, cultural, economic and environmental resource management challenges to the resilience of hill country and collectively develop strategies and programs to meet these challenges. This approach could significantly improve the efficiency of our catchment planning process by enabling us to consider how we can collectively give effect to the NPS in hill country en mass. Significant support to this proposal has already been given by most of the key stakeholders to the proposal.

The LMT in collaboration with Land Science have been investigating options for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of erosion control measures and value of RLS investment in reducing soil loss on-farm, through investigations into sediment sources, a review of the effectiveness of historical erosion control plantings and consideration of the wider ecosystem service benefits soil conservation plantings bring to the region. This information will be presented to Council in October. An example of these findings is outlined below.

Dr Dominati (AgResearch) in collaboration with HBRC looked at quantifying the impact and cost of the loss of ecosystem services from HB hill country following on from the April 2011 storm event along the southern HB coast, where an estimated 37km² of new bare ground was created through erosion. Dr Dominati looked at costs that were in addition to the estimated $39 million cost to infrastructure, land, personal and commercial property, by considering the impact of erosion on ecosystem services like the filtering of nutrients and contaminants, flood mitigation, carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas regulation and food production. She estimated that the total value of ecosystem services provided by uneroded hill country were approximately $5,085 ha/yr for rolling land and $3,717 ha/yr for steep land, of which only 12-14% of that value was made up from the value for food production. However once steep land eroded the value of ecosystem services for that eroded area dropped to $1,299 ha/yr, recovering to $1,921 ha/yr after 20 years and still only $2,293 ha/yr after 50 years following on from the erosion event. Conversely Dr Dominati looked at the value of wide spaced trees planted in steep land, both on their value in preventing the loss of ecosystem services caused by erosion and also considering other potential benefits trees in that landscape would bring e.g.). Provision of shade, native faunal habitat and food sources, alternative fodder for stock and wood. She estimated that the value of ecosystem services provided by uneroded steep land increased to $4,165 ha/yr 10 years following on from the introduction of trees and to $4,545 ha/yr after 20 years when they were harvested.

The LMT will continue to explore additional opportunities, initiatives and programs that work closely with landholders, communities and industry to address these issues. This includes;

· Participation in the High Performance Manuka Primary Growth Partnership (PGP). This PGP programme is a $1.8m 5 year research programme designed to significantly increase the returns and performance of high UMF Manuka plantations.

· Improving the cost benefit of RLS soil conservation investment in collaboration with the Land Science team by undertaking work in characterising the source, mechanisms, timing and impact of sediment loss within priority catchment areas. The objective being to better target investment to appropriate erosion control mechanisms to address soil loss when and where it occurs.

· Continued support of landholder capacity building through the provision of workshops and field days and support of the Ballance Farm Environment Awards.

· Synergies and strategic alliances with the primary sector industries. For example Beef & Lamb NZ by promoting and supporting the use and adoption of Land & Environment Plans (LEP’s) by hill country landholders.

3.3 Improving environmental performance of forestry

HBRC’s current forest asset will be largely in a maintenance i.e. (not new forest establishment) phase from the 2014-15 financial year with most new planting across the forests completed. Staff are looking to maximise the investment return from the forest asset and will consider initiatives to reduce operational costs such as re-tendering the operational management currently contracted out. In addition staff will actively seek to integrate the wider social, environmental or recreational opportunities available within the forest asset. Staff have an active programme of engagement with the Hawkes Bay forest industry to improve HBRC and industry environmental performance. This includes:

· Forest Estates - providing for best multiple use forestry and commercial efficiency in the HBRC forest estate and Tangoio Soil Conservation Reserve. Apply industry good practise in management plans and forest activities.

· Forest Industry engagement - support excellence in land stewardship and a successful HB forest industry. Attend bi-annual HB Forestry Group meetings. Use aerial and satellite imagery to review recent forest roading and harvest operations. Make at least six forest visits to review forest roading and harvest operations.

· Forest Extension - promote forest establishment where appropriate to improve HBRC values in hill country Hawke’s Bay

· Forest Research - participate in R&D projects to improve environmental health and commercial prospects for forests, NZ Dryland Forests Initiative and other industry activities as appropriate.

3.4 Environmental enhancement and biodiversity protection

RLS investment on private land to assist landholders protect and enhance areas of significant biodiversity is a priority of the LMT. Several LMT staff are involved in the development of the HB Biodiversity Strategy, currently being facilitated by HBRC. This strategy is due for completion in December 2014. As the Biodiversity Strategy progresses it is anticipated that the LMT will play a role in “operationalising” components of the strategy. Critical to this will be ensuring RLS investment is aligned and prioritised where on-ground investment are of greatest multiple benefit and also where investment in nutrient mitigation practices or soil conservation projects in other priority areas like the Tukituki catchment can lead to additional biodiversity outcomes. Programs or processes currently being developed or considered by the LMT include –

· A review to consider how we can better brand and advertise biodiversity project investment on private land, through better signage, marketing and communications via farm case studies and articles in publications.

· A large scale project called Cape to City which is seeking to partner with other funders to complete 20-30km of riparian planting on the Maraetotara River. This project will also see a number of threatened or endangered species populations enhanced in partnership with the Cape Sanctuary.

· A programme called Trees at Cost. This is a regional initiative managed by the land management team to get quality low cost riparian plants available to ratepayers with a focus on those areas where planting is taking place to meet the requirements of plan changes. HBRC is working in partnership with the large scale Taranaki Regional Council riparian programme to gain the cost savings possible for plants purchased under their programme.

A number of significant community based initiatives will continue to play an important role in the biodiversity program including –

· Coastal Dunes restoration projects

· Maraetotara Tree Trust

· Tutira Poutiri project

4.0 2014-15 LAND MANAGEMENT ACTIVITY

The following section outlines the wider activities the land management team will be involved in over the following 12 months and how these will contribute to the performance targets derived from the LTP as shown in appendix 2.

4.1 Foresight & STRATEGY

The LMT is playing a significant role in supporting the strategic development of organisational approaches to a number of key resource management challenges including –

1. The development of an organisational PC6 implementation plan as mentioned in the previous section by enabling –

o The development of consistent and consensual interpretation of rules and regulations through facilitating the development of procedural guidelines with primary sector stakeholders.

o The consideration of LM program logistics & resourcing – how we are going to deliver and afford PC6 in an effective and efficient manner.

o The consideration of best practice approaches – providing guidance on the most technically appropriate approaches to realising freshwater objectives via mitigation actions taken on-farm.

o Opportunities for synergies, innovation and efficiencies to our processes by working proactively both within HBRC and with our external stakeholders.

2. Playing an active role in the Taharua/Mohaka and Tutaekuri, Ahuriri, Ngaruroro & Karamu catchment plan development through -

o Providing nutrient modelling science support and farm systems interpretation and analysis.

o Facilitating industry participation and input into plan change and program processes.

o Facilitating and managing catchment stakeholder processes and participation in the design of local solutions to water quality problems e.g.) Taharua catchment.

o Providing guidance on the practicalities, implications and economic impact of permitted activity rules and policies on landholders within the catchments.

o Producing implementation plans and processes to drive the implementation of policy, rules and regulation on-ground.

3. Facilitating the development of sub-catchment community based strategies to deal with significant water quality challenges in the Taharua and Papanui catchments, with the Porangahau stream strategy development to begin in September 2014.

4. The development of the East Coast Hill Country Resilience Proposal mentioned in the previous section.

4.2 Investment

4.2.1 Research

The LMT Research investment is based on the following key principles –

1. Alignment with Councils strategic objective of “More viable and resilient farming systems in the region through sustainable land use”.

2. Leverage – the LMT will look to invest strategically in research projects that return good value to that investment in terms of extending reach, reducing costs and adding value.

3. Collaboration and partnership – with industry sectors will enable the LMT to better target its investment to deliver on outcomes. Partnerships with industry also increase the likelihood of applied research being adopted into industry best practice

Table 1, summarises the existing LMT research program for 2014-15, and includes the deliverables from each of the research projects during this period.

Table 1. Research Projects 2014-15

Title	Description	Deliverables 2013-14
Mitigating the Economic Costs to Farmers Following Severe Rain Storm Events project	Evaluating the economic cost of storm damage and benefits of soil erosion controls on the southern HB coast	· Production of farm case studies · Farm erosion cost calculator
Dryland forest project	Investigation of the use of hardwoods in hill country farming systems	· Research updates
Willow & Poplar Research Program	Support the breeding programme which develops new disease resistant and site tolerant varieties of P & W	· Research updates
SFF/FAR Tukituki Choices for Arable Farmers	Project investigating how the integration of different cropping and livestock enterprises can raise the profitability and reduce the environmental footprint of arable farmers in HB	· Nutrient budgets for a range of crops established · Gross margins prepared for range of crops · Scenarios developed for creation of a tool to enable the assessment of different cropping rotations on profitability and environmental footprint
High Performance Manuka Primary Growth Partnership (PGP).	A $1.8m 5 year research programme designed to significantly increase the returns and performance of high UMF manuka plantations	· 10 ha planting of riparian margins with UMF manuka · 2 x field days · Trial updates
East Coast Dryland Project	Investigate and evaluate alternatives to existing pastures, forages, and farming systems to increase farm resilience to climate variability	· To be developed · Will include field days and regular updates
Trees for Bees	Assessing and developing recommendations for planting which can be incorporated into the on-farm planting which takes place for other reasons (e.g. erosion control, riparian). Increasing floral biodiversity will benefit pollinators by improving spread and quality of feed supply.	· Extending the list of useful plants and putting these into a flowering calendar to identify which are suitable to fill key gaps. · 2014-15 look specifically at willows for early season pollen supply. From 2015 consider pollination issues on Heretaunga plains
Adoption of Environmental Best Practice on Deer Farms	The development and extrapolation of best practice guidelines for deer farmers	· Seminars & field days · Short video to be produced
Wairoa Hill Country Project	In proposal to be confirmed - Investigate and promote more profitable and sustainable hill country land use options	· Continued funding currently under review by MPI
Deferred Grazing Project	In proposal to be confirmed – looking at deferred grazing systems to improve productivity and reduce environmental impacts of soil loss in dry environments	· Project application yet to be considered
The LMT is also providing resource support to the following land science research projects
S-MAP	Project to improve the quality and quantity of soil mapping for the HB region
Project 339 202 Riparian investigations	To assess the condition and extent of riparian protection.
Project 339 203 Catchment Issues Investigations	To identify areas of concern (hot spots) within major catchment areas (as described in Land & Water management strategy) enabling HBRC to act proactively rather that reacting to environmental issues.
Project 340 202 Soil Quality Monitoring	As part of the SOE monitoring will identify areas and practices that are being degraded/degrading soil quality
Project 340 203 Land Use Monitoring	Identification of land use change is basic information needed to inform council regarding policy direction and maintain/enhance environmental sustainability.
Project 340 204 Erosion Monitoring	Monitoring to assist in identifying (i) most ‘at risk’ areas (ii) quantify amount of erosion taking place (iii) effects on water quality (iv) measure the effectiveness of RLS plantings and other council schemes with regard to erosion control (v) erosion occurring on the plains
Project 340 206 Wetland Monitoring	Identification, prioritisation and monitoring are all essential components in the protection of our wetlands as required by the new freshwater NPS

4.2.2 Capacity building

Capacity building plays an important role in complementing the LMT’s research and RLS grant programs, through extending research results, providing workshops and field days to landholders who haven’t received RLS incentives and by maintaining momentum with important regional issues outside of priority areas.

Capacity building is the process by which people, organisations and communities further develop their understanding and skills to successfully manage change. Building capacity focuses on enhancing existing strengths and abilities, and developing new capabilities¹.

¹ NSW Natural Resource Management Capacity Building Guide

This year’s capacity building focus is on supporting the strategies and programs being developed within the priority sub-catchment by ensuring that voluntary actions taken by landholders are cost effective, appropriate and enhances their ability to reduce their impact on water quality. The LMT will achieve this by engaging in the following processes where relevant:

1. Raising awareness of the water quality issues and impact of land use practices on water quality within each priority sub-catchment.

2. Providing field days and workshops using local demonstration sites to provide land users with the necessary skills to undertake their own on farm mitigation.

3. Developing the necessary tools and knowledge resources for land users to refer to in interpreting the Plan Change 6 rules and regulations to their own properties.

4. Facilitating community engagement meetings and sub-catchment governance groups.

Table 2 outlines the wider capacity building program for 2014-15. Note that capacity building associated with research projects is included in the research table.

Table 2. Capacity building program 2014-15.

Title	2013-14 Activity
Ballance Farm Environment awards	· Awards dinner · Regional winner field day · Participation in judging process · Farmer feedback reports
Hill Country Resilience workshop	· Consider the long term strategic resource management issues for East Coast Hill Country
Tukituki Plan Change 6 awareness raising meetings	· Supporting HBRC meetings for landholders to understand implications of plan change
Papanui & Porangahau stream sub-catchment capacity building programs to support PC6 implementation	· Awareness raising · Community engagement around strategy development and water quality issues · Targeted workshops to address dealing with specific land use issues e.g.) forage cropping, intensive cropping on peat soils · Specific skill development
Whakaki & Whangawehi sub-catchment capacity building programs	· Awareness raising · Targeted workshops to address dealing with specific land use issues · Specific skill development
Trees for bees project	· Co-ordinating local project group.
LandWISE Conference	· Annual conference
LandWISE activities	· HBRC representation on board
Farm Forestry Awards	· Regular field days and activities
McRae Farm Trust Field Day	· Regular field days

4.2.3 RLS incentives and grants

The investment focus for 2014-15 financial year is on supporting the implementation of the TCIP, with particular emphasis on the priority sub-catchments, while continuing to support wider program objectives elsewhere in the region.

Table 3 outlines the LMT’s RLS targets for the next financial year in comparison to the targets and their achievement for the 2013-14 financial year.

Table 3. Priorities for on-ground investment 2014-15

	Target 2012-13	Achieved 2012-13	Target 2013-14	Achieved 2013-14	Target 2014-15
Wetland restoration and protection	5 projects	8 projects	5 projects	10 projects	5 projects
Riparian or stream retirement	15 project	29 projects	7 projects	16 projects	7 projects
Soil conservation	28,000 poles 140 properties	37,700 poles 277 properties	20,000 poles 100 properties	31,000 Poles 135 properties	20,000 poles 100 properties
Preservation of native bush	100 ha	96 ha	100 ha	33 ha	100 ha
Coastal (cliffs, dunes, estuaries)	0	0	2	2	1
Research projects initiated	2	2	2	4	1
Capacity building activities	7	23	20	15	20
Participants attending events	250	590	500	900+	500
Catchment management community engagement meetings	9 events	15 events	15 events	17 events	20 events
Trees at Cost riparian programme	-	-	10000 native trees sold	10000 native trees sold	60,000 native trees sold

· Fewer riparian projects for the next financial year as the riparian planting program is developed and the funding for fencing is stopped in the Tukituki catchment in recognition of the stock exclusion rule, it is anticipated that this target will be significantly higher for the 2015-16 period..

· Greater emphasis on wetland projects with emphasis on projects achieving both nutrient mitigation and biodiversity outcomes.

· Same investment and targets for indigenous vegetation, noting that RLS funding for the QE2 partnership is a key activity to achieve this target.

· A significant reduction in soil conservation poles planted this financial year due to reduced availability of poles from the nursery for the 2014-15 period.

· More emphasis on capacity building & community engagement this year to compliment LMT’s other programs and priorities.

4.3 Strategic alliances

Strategic alliances are a key function of the LMT. They are critical to the success of programs and the achievement of LMT objectives. These relationships benefit all of HBRC and enable the team to leverage LMT resources with external stakeholders to maximise efficiency, effectiveness and achievement of program outcomes. The LMT works with a wide range of industry stakeholders and groups, agricultural intermediaries, government agencies, community groups and mana whenua to affect the adoption of sustainable land management practices.

The LMT continues to develop strong relationships with the region’s land owners and primary sector industries. The LMT regularly provides support and advice to landholders through one on one contact on farm, through the team’s involvement in community meetings and field days and in attending associated primary industry events and activities.

Understanding the needs and barriers to change of the region’s land owners is critical to the LMT’s program success and it is through this interaction with regional stakeholders collectively and individually where this understanding is developed

Table 4 outlines the formal strategic alliances the LMT is responsible for over the 2014-15 financial year.

Table 4. Key Strategic Alliances for 2014-15.

Group/Project	Description	Participation
Pan-sector group	The Pan Sector Group was officially formed to work collaboratively to drive continued investment into research and development of regional initiatives around best practice and farm profitability. The initial focus is on realising the potential benefits socially, economically and environmentally of the RWSS but the group has increasingly played a key role in helping shape and policies, rules and regulations within the Tukituki Plan Change 6	AgResearch, Plant & Food, Beef & Lamb, Fed Farmers, DairyNZ, Fonterra, PipfruitNZ, HortNZ, FAR, LandWISE, Massey Uni, Fertiliser Assoc, HB Fruit Grower, HB Winegrowers, MPI, HBRC, McCains, Heinz Watties, IrrigationNZ, Silver Fern Farms
Dairy Liaison group	Forum for dairy farmers and HBRC to maintain open communication and achieve improvements in practices on farm. Also a cross-council focal point to have a unified approach to the dairy sector	Dairy Farmers, HBRC, DairyNZ, Fonterra
Maraetotara Tree Trust	Restoration of the Maraetotara stream	Land holders, Maraetotara Tree Trust, HDC, DOC, local schools
Nature Central	Collaborative program with the intention of coordinating and delivering greater biodiversity outcomes around areas such as infrastructure management and use, community engagement, widescale pest management and landscape restoration	HBRC, GW Regional Council, Horizons Regional Council and DOC
Waimarama, Mahanga, Porangahau stream, Kairakau, Mangakuri, Waipatiki, Pourerere coastal dune groups	Restoration and protection of coastal dunes in collaboration with local communities	Local Communities
Tutira Poutiri Project	Project aim is to re-introduce species to this area and improve biodiversity	DOC, Poutiri project leader
Taharua Catchment Group	Implementation of programs and development of collective agreement to the long term management of the Taharua stream	Land holders, and wider stakeholders
Lake Runanga community group	Planting and protection of Lake Runanga	Local residents
Hawkes Bay Farm Forestry assn	Hawkes Bay Farm foresters. A membership of around 200. Who meet regularly and hold Field days	Land holders, primary sector and agricultural intermediaries
Hawke’s Bay Forestry Group	This is a forum for discussing local forestry issues and environmental outcomes and improvements in forest industry.	All major forest owners and some minor forest owners and their representatives in HB

4.4 Fit for purpose organisation

The LMT is currently in the initial stages of developing a strategic plan to ensure the team is best positioned and equipped to deliver on Councils strategic objectives and in particular support the implementation of PC6, which we will bring to Council for consideration, early next year. At the time of preparing this report, 2 full day facilitated workshops have been carried out to build the framework for the strategy, which the team will further elaborate on over the next 6 months. Several key issues to emerge out of the initial workshops that have further reinforced several priorities the team already has for this year includes –

1. The development of a monitoring, evaluation, reporting and improvement (MERI) plan. This was a key deliverable from last year that was not achieved due to LMT role in the wider PC6 and EPA Hearing process. The team has made some significant gains in this space however with 2 members of the team attending training in the development of MERI plans last year and a number of MERI initiatives being implemented as part of the priority sub-catchment program including, the benchmarking of community attitudes and practices of landholders in the priority sub-catchments and the development of a P risk assessment tool.

2. Greater focus on training and skill development within the LMT – 3 team members have undertaken the Advanced Nutrient Management (Overseer ®) course at Massey University and a further 2 staff have undertaken the intermediate course over the last financial year. Particular emphasis of skill development this year will be around catchment group engagement and facilitation. The team continue to support and attend the leading conferences and workshops relevant to LMT objectives.

3. A more considered approach to our wider stakeholder engagement and communication strategy is required to ensure we maximise our effectiveness in raising awareness and getting key messages across given the impact of PC6 on. in both

The LMT continues to provide significant support to a range of groups within Council in addition to those discussed above including, supporting the land science and consents/compliance groups through farm systems analysis and nutrient budgeting.

5.0 Program alignment and deliverables for 2013-14

The LMT have made significant progress to ensure its programs and processes are aligned with the strategic objectives of Council. Appendices 1 and 2 show how the LMT uses the strategic enablers of foresight and planning, investment, strategic alliances and a fit for purpose organisation in its operational planning to achieve the performance targets and deliverables within the LTP and annual plan. Annual operational activities and targets are aligned with the overarching consolidated outcomes from the HBRC strategic plan and the HB Land & Water Management Strategy as shown in appendix 3.

6.0 Summary

The LMT has gone through a significant period of change and will continue to do so over the next financial year. The team has played a key role in the dominant activities within council. The team has continued to review and improve on its processes and protocols throughout the year.

The key programs for the next financial year will continue to focus on the sustainable use of hill country, the implementation of the Tukituki Catchment Implementation Plan, improving the environmental performance of the regions forestry industry and the protection and enhancement of the regions significant biodiversity.

Land Management Operational Plan 2014/15

Attachment 1

HBRC Vision

A region with a vibrant community, a prosperous economy, a clean and healthy environment, now and for future generations

Appendix 1. Guiding principles of LMT Operational Plan

Appendix 2. 2014-15 deliverables and proposed activities contributing to those deliverables.

Strategic Enabler	Key Program Areas	Annual 2014-15 Deliverables	2014-15 Activities
Foresight & Strategy	Catchment Planning	· Minimum 18 weeks of LMT staff time participating in the catchment planning processes. · Catchment management community engagement meetings – 15 events	· Development of procedural guidelines for catchment management activities to be compiled – 30 April 2015 · Continuation of LMT input into the development of the Mohaka-Taharua Catchment Plan - ongoing · Provision of input into the TANK catchment plan – ongoing · Continuation of LMT input into the Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme development – Ongoing · Produce Catchment plan for Papanui catchment – 31 December 2014 · Lead the development of community based sub-catchment management plans for the Porangahau stream and Papanui catchments · Continuation of the development of catchment action plans for the Whakaki and Whangawehi communities - ongoing

	Plan Change 6 Implementation plan	· Organisational PC6 Implementation plan to be prepared by 31 December 2014	· Finalise the Tukituki Catchment Implementation Plan – 1 December · Liaise with external stakeholders to create procedural guidelines for PC6 by farming sector and external providers of Farm Environmental Management Plans – Ongoing
Investment	Regional Landcare Scheme	· RLS review document produced · The operational plan documents RLS contribution to sustainable land management targets 30 June 2015. · 60% of RLS funding is targeted to initiatives in Tukituki Catchment	· Wetland restoration and protection – Target = 5 project · Riparian or stream retirement – Target = 7 projects · Soil conservation projects – 20,000 poles planted on 100 properties target Indigenous bush covenanted – 100 ha target · Coastal cliff or dune project = 1 project target
	Capacity building	· Capacity building activities – 20 · Participation in capacity building events – 500 landholders	· Ballance Farm Environmental Awards, field days and judging · LandWISE conference and activities · Farm Forestry Association field days and awards · Tree for Bees field days · Field days within sub-catchments to be organised to assist wider community adapt and adopt good practice to address catchment issues - 5 events by 30 April 2015 · PC6 awareness raising and interpretation workshops to assist farmers comply with PC6 – 5 events by 30 April 2015. · Field days and workshops as part of dunes program – 2 events 30 April 2015.
	Research	· Initiate at least one new research or research extension initiative annually. · Dissemination of knowledge through field days and farmer seminars	· Wairoa Hill Country, FIT Deferred Grazing projects funding bids currently being considered · Development of catchment strategies will identify key catchment issues to be addressed in realising freshwater objectives, which will become priorities for research e.g.) winter forage crop grazing management & / or intensive cropping best practice on peat soils. · Research project deliverables for 2014-15 outlined in Table 1.
Strategic Alliances	Pan-sector Group	· Procedural guidelines for PC6 implementation & industry good practice program developed by 31 May 2015	· Continued facilitation and management of the pan-sector and dairy liaison group and process · Active program to implement agreed objectives in IGP-P MoU with primary sector
Fit for purpose	Monitoring, evaluation and reporting	· Draft Land Management MER framework produced 30 June 2015 · Land Management stakeholder engagement and communication strategy produced = 30 June 2015 · Land Management Strategy produced 1 April 2015.	· The MERI plan will incorporate community, Iwi and plan change indicators to which the implementation programs will address. These will be identified by the stakeholders themselves and by the modelling of in-stream water quality through TRIM2 · Land Management strategy will be developed through a series of in-house workshops throughout the year.

HAWKE’S BAY REGIONAL COUNCIL

Environment and Services Committee

Wednesday 13 August 2014

SUBJECT: Land Science Soil Quality Update

Reason for Report

1. This report has been prepared to give the committee an overview of Hawke’s Bay Regional Council’s Soil Quality Monitoring (SQM) programme including an example of how it relates to topical issues such as cadmium accumulation in soils.

Background

2. Section 35(2) (a) of the Resource Management Act 1991, places a legislative and administrative responsibility on regional councils to monitor and report on the state of the environment in their regions. State of the Environment (SoE) monitoring measures and monitors human activities and their effects on the environment using environmental performance indicators.

3. Over time environmental reporting will:

· raise the level of knowledge about the state of New Zealand’s environment

· strengthen our ability to report on environmental health and trends

· provide the tools for effective evaluation of policy

· establish the information base for more informed policy and management decisions (Land Monitoring Forum publication,2009)

4. The Pressure-State-Response (PSR) model has been used as a basis for many of the councils science programmes including the SQM programme. It has been applied in many other countries and is recognized as a useful framework for reporting worldwide.

The PSR model asks three fundamental questions:

· What are the pressures on the environment? This identifies environmental issues and

their causes.

· What is the state of the environment? This tells us what to monitor where, relative to

the issues.

· What is being done about these issues? This identifies policy goals and management

actions for the issues.

5. Hawke’s Bay Regional Councils (HBRC) SQM programme has been set up specifically to monitor agricultural land and native bush and it has been developed over the last 15 years.

6. The first organized efforts to look at soil quality in Hawke’s Bay began with the “500 Soils Project” co-founded with the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) during 1999-2000. The MfE ceased involvement in the project in 2001 with the understanding that regions would continue monitoring and at a future date the 500 Soils Project sites would be resampled.

7. HBRC reviewed the SQM monitoring programme in 2006 (Pearson & Reid, 2006). This provided a framework to select process sites that represent Hawke’s Bay based on soil types (and soil orders) and land use. The land uses that are covered by the SQM programme are;

· Intensive pasture

· Extensive pasture

· Orchards

· Vineyards

· Cropping

· Forestry and

· Native bush

These land uses are spread across twenty five of the major soil types found in Hawke’s Bay.

8. The result is that we can monitor the effect of all of our major land uses on our major soil types. Some land uses won’t be found on some soils but this methodology allows us to get the best understanding possible of the effects of different land uses on different soil types for a reasonable cost.

The SQM programme has so far covered extensive pasture, intensive pasture, vineyards and cropping (arable) land (fifty seven sites in total). In 2014/15 we will look at commercial forestry, native bush and orchards. The following years will see us return to sites on a rotating basis, which will allow us to build up a database of soil quality, this will help identify improvements or deterioration in soil quality (trends) and help inform policy and planning decisions.

9. In 2009 the Land Monitoring Forum (LMF) produced robust guidelines from which councils can produce nationally consistent land monitoring procedures and reporting and this was added to the Pearson & Reid, 2006 methodology mentioned earlier. The LMF draws its members from regional council staff throughout New Zealand and all have roles relating to land monitoring.

10. As a minimum councils are expected to monitor;

· Soil pH;

· Olsen P (plant available phosphorus);

· Total carbon and nitrogen;

· Anaerobically mineralisable nitogen

· Bulk density;

· Macroporosity; and

· Aggregate stability

11. HBRC monitors the above parameters plus;

Extra Agricultural Indicators

· Potassium

· Calcium

· Magnesium

· Sodium

· CEC

· Total Base Saturation %

· Organic Matter %

· C/N Ratio

Metals

· Total Recoverable Arsenic

· Total Recoverable Cadmium

· Total Recoverable Chromium

· Total Recoverable Copper

· Total Recoverable Lead

· Total Recoverable Mercury

· Total Recoverable Nickel

· Total Recoverable Zinc

Individual Tests

· Total Recoverable Uranium

· Total Fluoride

Soil Physical tests

· Particle density (g/cm³)

· Dry bulk density (g/ cm³)

· Porosity (%)

· Macro-porosity (%)

· Field capacity (%)

· AWC (%)

Organochlorine Pesticides

Twenty five organochlorine pesticides or their breakdown products are measured including DDT and Dieldrin.

12. Hawke’s Bay Regional Council tests more soil parameters than any other regional council in New Zealand. This is a reflection of the importance placed on the land/soil resource of the Hawke’s Bay region by HBRC.

Why do we need to monitor our soil quality?

13. The soil quality of our region is monitored to detect trends, both positive and negative, in soil quality. The soil is literally the foundation of every aspect of human life. It provides many services, not just as a medium in which to grow crops or pasture, but also as a buffer against nutrients/pollutants reaching adjacent surface water bodies or shallow groundwater, or providing an ecological habitat in its own right.

14. Over 30% of Hawke’s Bay’s gross regional product or GDP can be attributed to the three basic primary sectors of horticulture, pastoral farming and forestry (Hughes 2013). This is approximately $1.8 billion per year, a figure that would be unattainable and unsustainable without careful management of the soil.

15. Soil can take thousands of years to form but its structure and its chemical composition can be degraded relatively quickly. By monitoring the quality of our soils regularly, we can identify early that a particular land use on a particular soil type may need investigating further.

16. The aim of the SQM program is not to penalise individual farmers but to look at the long term trends. This information will help us use our soil in a sustainable way so that we can benefit from this valuable resource in the medium term and also to protect it in the long term for future generations.

How do we measure soil quality?

17. The LMF’s guidelines set out criteria for initiating a site and taking soil samples. A 50m transect is used and three soil identification pits are dug at 0m, 25m and 50m. These pits are described by a pedologist and the soil type is confirmed.

18. Once the soil type is confirmed, soil cores are taken along the length of the transect and combined to form a composite soil sample. Two composite samples are produced, one for metals and pesticides and one for general agricultural testing. For testing of physical soil parameters (e.g. bulk density, aggregate stability) other samples are taken from each test pit. All samples are then sent to an accredited laboratory for analysis.

19. None of this work would be possible without the cooperation of the landowners who are usually keen to have their soil investigated. The land owner receives a report on their soil as soon as we get the results back from the laboratory along with a letter offering advice if required.

SQM Results

20. All of the soil quality monitoring reports are put onto the HBRC website and so can be accessed by anyone. Actual site/property information is not mentioned in the various reports (sites are given a reference number) but a detailed record is kept by HBRC of all site locations and owner details.

21. The accompanying presentation to this paper will expand on the findings so far of the SQM program.

Topical Issue addressed by the SQM program - Cadmium

22. Cadmium (Cd) is a carcinogen that accumulates in the soil through the application of phosphate fertilizer. Once in the soil Cd is taken up by plants and is ingested by animals, where it can accumulate in organ tissue. If this offal is consumed by humans some of the Cd will be transferred and can bio-accumulate within human liver and kidney tissue.

23. Recent results from HBRC’s SQM program have shown that the average Cd concentration across all measured sites is 0.28 mg/kg. This figure is similar the findings of the 2006 Soil Cadmium report prepared for HBRC through Envirolink by Agresearch. Agresearch found that Hawkes Bay soils had an average Cd concentration of 0.30 mg/kg. Agresearch’s data was based on soil cores taken to a depth of 75 mm while HBRC’s current SQM program takes cores to a depth of 100 mm. One hundred milimeteres is now the accepted depth for testing general soil quality.

24. New Zealand does not currently have a guideline for maximum concentrations of Cd in agricultural soil but there is an industry recommended guideline (endorsed by MfE) of 1.0 mg/kg. This is also the same as the maximum concentration recommended in the Bio-solid guidelines (MfE, 2003). HBRC’s SQM results from 57 sites are all below the 1.0 mg/kg guideline.

25. In 2014 the council will produce a State of the Environment (SoE) five yearly report where all of the data collected relating to soil quality in the Hawke’s Bay region (and all other SoE programmes) will be collated and discussed in detail.

Decision Making Process

26. Council is required to make a decision in accordance with Part 6 Sub-Part 1, of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act). Staff have assessed the requirements contained within this section of the Act in relation to this item and have concluded that, as this report is for information only and no decision is to be made, the decision making provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 do not apply.

Recommendation

1. That the Environment and Services Committee receives the “Land Science Soil Quality Update” report.

Dr Barry Lynch

Principal Scientist / Team Leader - Land

Dr Stephen Swabey

Manager, Science

Iain Maxwell

Group Manager

Resource Management

Attachment/s

There are no attachments for this report.

Received	TLA	Map Ref	Activity	Applicant/ Agency	Status	Current Situation
18 July 2014	HDC	1	Notice of Requirement A Notice of Requirement for the Whakatu Arterial Link project to provide a road between Havelock North, State Highway 2 North, Pakowhai Road, the Expressway and the Port of Napier.	HDC	Notified	31 July 2014 · Submissions close Wednesday 20^th August 2014. · Staff are currently assessing the NOR. · Details of the application can be found here Notice of Requirement
17 July 2014	NCC	2	Resource Consent Application Application is to redevelop an ex-service station to establish a commercial activity involving six retail tenancies at 83 Kennedy Road (corner of Kennedy Road and Georges Drive).	Matvin Group Limited	Notified	31 July 2014 · Submissions close Friday 15 August 2014. · Staff are currently assessing the application in terms of contaminated soils, the impacts of additional traffic flows and public transport. · Details of the application can be found here application documents
11 July 2014	NCC	3	Resource Consent Application Proposed residential development of a portion of the former Napier Hospital, Hospital Terrace, Napier.	Todd Property Napier Hill Limited	Notified	31 July 2014 · Submissions close Friday 8 August 2014. · Staff have assessed the application having had particular regard to the intensification of housing density, contaminated soils and the impacts of additional traffic flows and are satisfied that no submission is required. · Details of the application can be found here application documents.
5 December 2013	NCC	4	Plan Change 10 to the Operative City of Napier District Plan. A community driven Plan Change to harmonise district wide provisions between the Napier District Plan with the Hastings District Plan, incorporate the Ahuriri Subdistrict Plan and update provisions as a result of recent Napier City Council policy changes and decisions into the Napier District Plan.	NCC	Notified, hearing pending	31 July 2014 · Further submissions closed Friday 9 May 2014. HBRC staff did not consider that a Further Submission was required as none of the Submissions received by NCC contradicted HBRC’s original Submission or raised issues of concern to this Council. · In total NCC received 28 Submissions. It is anticipated that NCC will begin hearings within the next few months. · Submissions closed on Friday 14 February 2014. The HBRC submission can be found at HBRC Submissions · Previously informal comments were made by staff on draft content relating to HPUDS and RPS Change 4.
8 November 2013	HDC	5	Proposed Hastings District Plan Review of the Hastings District Plan in its entirety. Includes the harmonisation of district wide provisions between the Napier District Plan with the Hastings District Plan where relevant.	HDC	Notified, hearings in progress	31 July 2014 · HDC have commenced hearings on topic by topic basis. HDC’s hearings programme scheduled to run through remainder of 2014. · Further submissions closed Friday 9 May 2014. HBRC lodged a Further Submission on a number of Submissions including on those requesting development in areas outside of HPUDS. · In total HDC received 198 Submissions on their Proposed District Plan. It is anticipated that HDC will begin hearings within the next few months. · The HBRC Submission and Further Submission on the HDC Plan Review can be found here HBRC Submissions http://www.hbrc.govt.nz/HBRC-Documents/HBRC Document Library/20140214 Submission HDC District Plan.pdf · Prior to the notification of the Proposed District Plan, HDC released a Draft District Plan Review on which the Regional Council provided comments. Various informal comments were made by staff on draft content, particularly relating to natural hazards, HPUDS and RPS Change4, riparian management.
1 August 2013	NA	6	Application under Coastal and Marine (Takutai Moana) Act 2011 Rongomaiwahine has made an application for a Protected Customary Rights Order and a Customary Marine Title Order in the general Mahia Peninsular area under section 100 of the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act 2011.	Rongomaiwahine (Pauline Tangiora)	Notified	31 July 2014 · Council has opposed the grant of the orders unless the nature and geographical extent of the orders is specified with sufficient detail to enable the Council to appropriately understand the effect of the orders sought. · High Court has been assessing validity of other parties joining these proceedings. No additional actions or responses have been required from HBRC since joining proceedings in late 2013.

[1] Animal Health Board, Central Hawke’s Bay District Council, Dairy NZ, Department of Conservation, Farm Forestry Committee, Federated Farmers, Fish & Game New Zealand, Forest & Bird, Hastings District Council, Hawke’s Bay Forestry Group, Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association, Mana Ahuriri Iwi Inc., Maori Trustee, Ministry for Primary Industries, Napier City Council, Ngā Whenua Rāhui, Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated, QE II National Trust, and Te Taio Hawke’s Bay Environment Forum.

Follow-up/Request		Person Responsible	Due Date	Status/Comment
Invite Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment to Hawke’s Bay	CE		13/8	The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment is delighted to have received an invitation but regretfully is unable to travel to Hawke’s Bay between now and the end of October, and highly unlikely to by the end of 2014. HBRC and PCE officials will continue to look for the earliest possible opportunity for a visit.
Consenting conditions relating to burning of fires during certain times of the year	I Maxwell/M Heaney		13/8	A copy of ‘Outdoor burning Guide’ containing the required information to be provided to Councillors at next meeting

Outcomes	Improved economic return with reduced environmental impact via best practice adoption	Diffuse run-off from farms reduced	Sustainable use of fragile hill country and steeplands	Improved understanding & targeted investment of ecological servicing	Improved community understanding of landscape appropriate best practice	Catchments with existing water quality issues have integrated management plans developed by the community	Water quality trends in degraded catchments will be improving
Foresight & Strategy		· LM support of PC6 implementation	· East Coast Hill Country Resilience Proposal	· LMT involvement in the development of the biodiversity strategy	· Development of a industry good practice program in collaboration with Pan-sector group	· Sub-catchment strategies for Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki	· LM support of PC6 implementation
Foresight & Strategy	· Tukituki Plan Change 6 Implementation Plan · Mohaka/Taharua Plan Change & Tutaekuri, Ngaruroro, Ahuriri & Karamu Plan Change · Whangawehi, Whakaki catchment plans
Investment	· Adoption of Environmental Best Practice on Deer Farms · SFF/FAR Tukituki Choices for Arable Farmers project	· RLS investment in riparian and wetland protection · Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki sub-catchment programs and activities · SFF / FAR Tukituki Choices project	· RLS investment in soil conservation programs · Dryland forest project · Dryland Pastures Project · Wairoa Hill Country Project · Farm forestry activities and awards · McRae Trust field day	· RLS investment in riparian and wetland protection · Trees for Bees project	· GRAAS economic impacts of erosion project · Awareness raising in relation to Tukituki Plan Change 6 · Awareness raising and field days in priority sub-catchments	· Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki sub-catchment programs and activities	· Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki sub-catchment programs and activities
Investment	· Ballance Farm Environmental Awards · Willow and Poplar nursery
Strategic alliances	· Working with the pan-sector to collaborate on initiatives and programs	· Industry Good Practice procedural guidelines and collaborative programs developed	· East Coast Hill Country Resilience Proposal	· Tutira Poutiri Project · Nature Central MoU development · Maraetotara Tree Trust Meetings · Waimararama, Porangahau, Mahanga Coastal Dune Groups	· Dairy Liaison group	· Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki sub-catchment programs and activities	· Papanui, Porangahau stream & Whakaki sub-catchment programs and activities
Strategic alliances	· Pan Sector group · Collaboration with Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme team
Fit for purpose		· Catchment characterisation of nutrient issues as part of sub-catchment programs in Papanui & Porangahau stream	· 340 204 Erosion monitoring	· 339 202 Riparian investigations · 340 206 Wetland monitoring · 340 202 Soil Quality monitoring	· S-Map soil mapping project · 340 203 Land use monitoring	· Catchment characterisation of nutrient issues as part of sub-catchment programs in Papanui & Porangahau stream	· Catchment characterisation of nutrient issues as part of sub-catchment programs in Papanui & Porangahau stream
Fit for purpose	· Development of a Land Management MERI plan · Development of Stakeholder Engagement and Communication strategy · Development of Land Management Strategy

1	Statutory Advocacy Map
2	Statutory Advocacy Update

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