Summary: Council’s forestry approach
Short Summary: Council’s Forestry Approach
Issue Overview: - Nelson City Council is considering a significant shift in its forestry management strategy. The current debate focuses on whether to maintain the existing commercial forestry operations or transition to a continuous canopy of mixed species, enhancing environmental sustainability and recreational opportunities.
Options: - Option 1: Retain our current commercial forestry approach - Continue the planting and harvesting of pine trees, providing financial certainty and supporting local employment without impacting rates.
- Option 2: Exit commercial forestry (Council’s proposal)
- Gradually phase out commercial forestry, replacing it with a mixed-species forest. This approach aims to improve environmental, recreational, and social outcomes but involves higher initial costs and potential economic impacts on the forestry sector.
Public Opinion: - Option 1: Supporters of retaining the current commercial forestry model emphasize its role in providing stable income and jobs, which are crucial for the local economy. They argue that commercial forestry operations can be environmentally sustainable and propose a staggered approach to any transition to mitigate financial risks.
- Option 2: The majority of feedback favors transitioning to a mixed-species model, highlighting the long-term environmental and recreational benefits. Proponents believe that despite the higher costs, the advantages of improved biodiversity, erosion control, and potential new economic opportunities in eco-tourism and community engagement justify the transition. Concerns remain about the financial impact, particularly regarding the increase in rates and the initial investment required.
Recommendation: - Given the strong community support and alignment with broader environmental and recreational goals, it is recommended that Nelson City Council pursue Option 2. This should include a phased implementation plan to manage financial impacts effectively and ensure continuous community engagement and support. The transition plan should also explore potential funding sources, such as carbon credits and grants, to offset costs and minimize the financial burden on ratepayers.
Issue Description
From Consultation Document
Nelson has an opportunity to move away from commercial forestry over time and to manage all its forests in a way that is better for our environment. Council owns and manages approximately 600 hectares of commercial forestry in its Maitai, Brook, Roding and Marsden reserves (including water and conservation reserves) which the public have access to. For several years Council has been debating whether or not planting and harvesting pine forests is a good idea – both financially and environmentally. Council is proposing to transition away from commercial forestry and manage all its forests in a different way. Now we need to hear from you and then decide whether to progress with this change or stay with our current approach. Background The Right Tree Right Place Taskforce (made up of elected members and independent specialists) was set up in early 2023 to look at all the options for Council’s commercial forestry land. The Taskforce recommended Council transition away from commercial pine forestry and to replant with a continuous canopy of mixed species (following Pinus Radiata stands being harvested, removed or transitioned). You can read the Taskforce’s report in the background information at nelson.govt.nz. This approach would involve planting a mixture of high value native and exotic trees and leaving them to grow into forest. Future generations may have the option to selectively harvest high value timber from the forests, but the intention is to maintain continuous canopy forests. Council supports this new approach but wants your feedback before making a final decision. Nelson – the forest city In addition to moving away from commercial forestry, the Taskforce has also recommended managing all of Council’s 10,000+ hectares of forests as one area – including all the pine trees and native bush. It would take time to transition to thriving, biodiverse continuous canopy forests but no other New Zealand city has the benefit of such a large forest area on its doorstep, and this change in approach would enhance its conservation and recreation value. Our changing climate makes this area even more important, as having protected and thriving mixed-species forests in place over the long term will absorb and store carbon, improve water quality by stabilising the soil on our steep hillsides, and avoid the risk of forestry slash causing problems during heavy rain events. How is the forestry activity funded? Council’s commercial forestry operations are currently funded from a closed account. This means Council treats commercial forestry as a separate bank account and does not transfer rates money into this account or take money out to pay for other activities. Moving out of commercial forestry and changing over to the new approach would require funding from rates. There are some additional options that may help fund this new approach: • possible income from carbon, voluntary carbon and biodiversity credits • taking out loans and seeking grants and external co-funding • selling the rights to cut down existing pine trees. Our proposed approach Notwithstanding the recommended change in approach, Council will as a first priority work to ensure that Emissions Trading Scheme obligations are met. We will also spray weeds and replant as a priority with mixed species, in areas where pine trees have been cut down but not yet replanted. This will help us minimise risks relating to these areas in future weather events. Funding has also been included to work through the full extent of the change in direction, including options to progress the longer term transition, potential funding sources to support the transition, and what the future of Nelson’s 10,000+ hectares of forests will look like for Council and the community.
Options
| Title | Option |
|---|---|
| Retain our current commercial forestry approach | This option would continue the planting and harvesting of pine trees on Council’s reserves. Retaining the current approach would provide more financial certainty and avoid rework of existing harvesting plans. However, it would not lead to better management of all of Council’s forested lands or improved environmental, recreational and social outcomes, when considering slope instability, erosion and sedimentation, effects on aquatic life, soil degradation and poor visual amenity and biodiversity outcomes. Over and above the standard yearly forestry activity costs, the estimated costs of this option are $600,000 across the 10 years of this Plan. The estimated cost to replant the remaining commercial forestry land in pine trees over the longer term is in the range of $950,000 to $1.3 million, which would be offset by harvesting income. It would have no impact on rates and $600,000 additional debt within the 10 years of the Long Term Plan. |
| Exit commercial forestry (Council’s proposal) | This option would see an exit from commercial forestry over time, with forests to be replaced with a continuous canopy of mixed species. It is more expensive but would allow Council to take a holistic approach to management of its native and exotic forests and develop a long-term asset for the community with improved environmental, recreational and social outcomes, particularly on the city fringe. It would maximise community amenity and recreational values and offer environmental and climate benefits (such as permanent carbon sequestration and flood mitigation) and likely increase levels of service. It creates the potential to develop a plan for the whole 10,000 hectares of forest owned by the Council to address biodiversity concerns such as pest control, habitat protection and invasive weeds. The disadvantages would be increased costs and some economic impact on the forestry sector by removing Council’s small commercial forestry (less than 1% of the Nelson-Tasman region’s commercial forestry) from the current harvesting and replanting process. Over and above the standard yearly forestry activity costs, the estimated costs of this option is $9.8 million of additional funding across the 10 years of the Plan to progress the transition. The estimated cost for transitioning the remaining forestry over the longer term is in the range of $4.6 million to $29.2 million, some of which could be offset by income. Impact on rates: Total of $3.4 million across the 10 years of the Long Term Plan. Impact on debt: $9.8 million by year 10 of the Long Term Plan. |
Comments
| Comment | Point ID |
|---|---|
| While option 2 looks good. Ending commercial forestry is going to affect income and productivity for Nelson. I would like to note that a happy medium between option 1 and 2 is better. To create that canopy and retain certain areas or a certain percentage so that Nelson retains it's commercial asset and revenue. Jobs pay rates. | 7.3 |
| Forestry should not be council's business | 11.3 |
| A perprtual canopy forest will be valuable protection against erosion due to flooding, slowing the water run-off.Clear felling forest on steep country causes a large part of the erosion we see in the estuary.I support the vison to move from a Clear-felling op, to a perpetual Canopy forest. | 15.2 |
| The present model does not return greater than 10% return as stated by John Murray. He is factually incorrect. | 18.1 |
| This decision sets the example for LGNZ to commit to long term planning based on sound reasoning and economic assessment. Although it might take the first 20 years to show any tangible benefit, they will become obvious for the 20-100 years, so well done. Council assets like the Sanctuary appreciate the decision made to possibly forfeit marginal returns in the short term in exchange for major biodiversity benefits that will flow from the medium and long term | 25.3 |
| Follow the recommendations of the Right Tree Right Place task force! | 38.3 |
| This is a no brainer, forestry slash has had devastating the Matai river and regional waterways for to long. The increase in sentiment on our ocean floor from flooding of our rivers although unsubstantiated is of real concern. | 43.3 |
| Please plant heaps more natives and restore Repo (wetland) areas, create native pathways across the region for birds. | 54.3 |
| Meanwhile, no new forestry plantings and removal of all Council wildings pines and similar within say 20m of all permanent waterways. | 67.2 |
| My strong preference is for option two. Nelson has an extraordinary outdoor adventure offering and transitioning those commercial forests (particularly those that are bordering existing popular areas like Sharlands, the Brook and the Maitai) would boost that offering for locals and tourists alike with a generational opportunity to develop a more ecologically diverse environment. The environmental issues associated with mono-crop forests are well known and I'm sure will be known to the Council. The hills above Richmond are a highly visible example: exposed rocky hills growing little other than weeds and constantly erosion during rain. I feel strongly that the current commercial forestry approach in Nelson is not a worthwhile use of the currently-forrested land. | 72.3 |
| At a time when the Council needs every dollar in income, this forestry resource provides income | 75.3 |
| Exit commercial forestry on public lands and use it to grow native trees, species. | 76.1 |
| Phase out pine forests and do not replace. Closures are a pain in regard to recreation and pine forests should not be part of the council's remit and they are more trouble than they are worth | 77.3 |
| I have just enjoyed reading Our Nelson To Tatou Whakatu. We moved up to Whakatu 5 years ago, from Cashmere, Otautahi, from a 5 bedroom house to a Lockwood 2013 with 3 bedrooms. Anyway, here is my submission: After planting native bushes and small trees, we have noticed a resurgence of native birds, such as Tuis, Kerero, Piwakas, Ruru, and others. Hence, I feel strongly that the 2nd Option, would be the best way to go. Thankyou. | 78.1 |
| Forestry operations in the top of the south are managed so well with lots of consideration towards the environment. Let the big forest management companies get on with doing their jobs, they are the experts. PF Olsens managed the forestry work in the Richmond hills so well which suggests they can do the same in NCC forests | 80.2 |
| Native fauna needs to be reinstated if possible. | 81.3 |
| pine plantations are not environmentally friendly and in the long term sequester much less carbon than native forestry. | 87.3 |
| I would prefer a continuous canopy of native-only species, noting that I understand this would likely mean that no selective logging would be able to take place. | 89.3 |
| I think option 2 (exit commercial forestry over time) is definitely the right direction for Nelson as the hills surrounding the city and up the adjacent valleys, are subject to slips and erosion , causing flooding and sedimentation in the valleys which has severe adverse consequences for nelson property and people, as we have seen in the 2022 flooding event. Commercial forestry in these areas adds to the risks by leaving large amount of slash which have caused significant damage in previous weather events. Restoring a canopy, particularly natives, over time also enhances our biodiversity, (adding to the halo effect from the Waimarama Brook sanctuary), is also a postive response to climate change and allows greater opportunities for outdoor recreation close to the city. This change would enhance the city overall and make Nelson a better place to live. | 92.3 |
| Strongly support this | 108.3 |
| I strongly support this transition. While ratepayer input will be required in the short/medium term, it seems clear to me that there will be immeasurable long-term benefits for the city residents and recreational groups, plus it will lead to a much healthier Maitai River and Tasman Bay. Looking through a wider environmental lense I have no doubt that it is the right path to take. | 109.1 |
| Need to have a canopy of trees around the hills to help prevent future run off and logging spills. | 114.3 |
| I believe there are many reasons why this is the correct approach for Nelson. The restoration of native forest would help reduce biodiversity loss, sequester carbon (which is absolutely urgently required as one essential strategy to slow clinate change), provide a natural visual backdrop to more parts of Nelson ( the aesthetics of which would benefit tourism), provide healthier recreational opportunities, improve soils and reduce slip danger (which is an obvious major concern with increasingly more extreme weather events).There is the possibility of revenue from recreational us of the restored native forests by tourists. | 119.3 |
| I support the transition to permanent indigenous forests | 120.3 |
| Consider just changing the canopy to non-commercial forestry for trees that are immediately visible when looking out from the city to the hills. What sits in behind that could remain commercial forestry. | 126.3 |
| I would like to see the Council move to a forestry transition model as recommended by the | 127.1 |
| I would like to see the Council move to a forestry transition model as recommended by the taskforce. Maintaining a continuous canopy of forests is essential to build more resilient land management systems that have native bush at the heart of them. Transitioning to thriving, biodiverse continuous canopy forests would (eventually) enhance the conservation and recreation value of our forested areas for future generations. This is key to ensuring robust forests of the future that are better placed to help us cope with a changing climate and future catastrophic weather events. They also just look, sound and feel so much healthier than mono-forested areas | 138.2 |
| no more hey fever | 140.3 |
| All hillsides and ex-forestry areas should be planted in natives. These supply food and habitats throughout the year for our native species. Exotic trees evolved to feed and shelter northern hemisphere animal life and do nothing for Aotearoa species. | 142.3 |
| So many positives in this initiative. Clean water, climate change resilience, supporting the brook sanctuary, thriving forests-tourism....pine is dead to us in 2024. | 144.1 |
| This option will still provide employment for business's like ours establishing and tending the new exotic and native tree "crops" | 152.1 |
| Money in. Forestry good. Good CO2. | 155.3 |
| Climate events are increasing and the cause of significant rain and flooding in the Nelson Tasman regions. Evidence of increased sedimentation in the Waimea Estuary and rivers originating from cleared forest land has affected the quality of substrate and native habitat. Clear felling forests is a significant cause of the increased sedimentation. | 160.3 |
| The council taskforce has recommended an approach that replaces a potential future income stream (albeit small) with a future stream of costs. That may create some benefits for trampers and bush walkers who already have many options in the Nelson / Tasman region. It strikes me that the taskforce went in with a preconceived agenda and have merely chosen to justify that to the community. Given the funding pressures on the council adopting a new stream of costs appears inappropriate and at odds with the objective of balancing the needs of the community. If the council bodies responsible for the commercial forests are unable to generate a profit from doing so then the council should firstly offer management rights to forestry companies who do have that ability. At least then there will be some income to offset current and future rates increases. If the council can't find companies who will pay for those forestry rights then there is a case for converting forest land to native forest. However I am not aware that case has yet been made. Even if it proves that all the rights can't be sold then surely there is capacity for the council to offer the rights for the more financially attractive forestry blocks with the remainder progressively converted to natives. A staggered approach to converting away from commercial forestry would at least start balancing those additional costs with some income. | 171.3 |
| As to the forestry option I believe , we should retain the current approach ( option 1) for it generates income . In fact ,I believe the Council just used $200,000 to balance it’s budget. This $200,000 would have had to come rates if the forestry income of $200,000 was not available. The Council in it’s proposal ( option 2) has not addressed where this forestry fund income could be made up elsewhere, something which the council failed to address in it’s proposal. ( option 2.) | 173.3 |
| A no-brainer | 180.3 |
| Absolutely stop commercial forestry and invest in developing the areas for recreational use. It is outrageous that Council has been doing it for so long. Nelsons recreation and visual amenity is way more important and the logged areas always look like a war zone, and is so bad for the environment. Council should set an example change your approach. Mixed species would be great and access for recreational use. | 181.2 |
| I support the recommendations from the RTRP Taskforce and applaud Council for adopting them, so it's good to see this being followed through in the Long Term Plan. | 184.3 |
| This just has to be done. There is no doubt that on the steep slopes where most of NCC forestry is, the damage done by repeated clear felling of pine is simply not acceptable. Coupled with the favoured mechanised harvest approach (which dramatically worsens surface damage) soil stripping and the impact on the whenua and by close extension, the Tasman Bay moana just can't be tolerated any longer.Having hands on experience with Silvan Forest retiring their pine and replanting with a (non-harvestable) native/exotic mix, and also TDC's similar approach with Kingsland Forest, NCC following suit and doing the same should now be a given. If this costs NCC then so be it - this is the price of doing the right thing, and probably the price of making poor decisions to be involved in this space in the first place. Without a Forest Manager on staff to handle this properly, NCC hasn't done itself any favours at all. Consider Silvan and Kingsland as the template for how this can be done.There are suitable and appropriate places for harvestable pine plantations - Nelson's steep slopes coupled with their close proximity to waterways and Tasman Bay are not it. | 190.3 |
| I commend the council on its option two as it sets an example for private commercial foresters to transition to continuous canopy practices. At present , large clear felled areas of harvested pine forest pose an extreme risk to Nelson of flooding during high rainfall events. These events are occurring more often as a result of climate change. A forest with a continuous canopy absorbs up to 60% of the rainfall. The other negative impact of large clear felled areas is the increase in soil and sediment loss during rainfall events. This material ends up in the river, estuaries and Tasman Bay , and its associated problems are well documented by numerous studies by Cawthron and other reports. I would encourage Council to strongly lobby central government to overhaul the present NES-PF rules and consent conditions as they are totally out of date with current scientific evidence and best practice overseas. | 199.1 |
| Poor use of the land which benefits overseas companies and only creates a few local jobs. It also degrades the environment causing slips and damage when the trees are harvested and the run off of all the soil when its loosened, the bay is covered in deposits from this which have killed most of the marine life and significantly reduced the quality of the bay. | 206.3 |
| Very important to mitigate future disasters along the Maitai river and tributaries. No one enjoys the mono culture! | 223.3 |
| Change it OVER TIME. Dont try to do it all at once, focus on key high public use areas and do them well while keeping some commercial forestry stands to help fund the conversion | 228.2 |
| With all the slips, a more diverse forest already shows, that they can hold the banks better. | 230.3 |
| For all of the reasons that Council has already noted, moving away from commercial forestry and re-planting with mixed species indigenous forest will greatly benefit the environment. Fresh water quality and biodiversity will both improve under indigenous forest. Having indigenous forest in our recreational spaces also improves experience for users and is closer to what naturally would have been here before human settlement. | 231.1 |
| Enough is enough, the clear cut pine platation days are over. | 232.1 |
| strongly support option 2. It is a poor look to have a council running a for profit forestry operation that directly and negatively affects the local populations enjoyment and access to the local area. | 245.3 |
| As an avid mountain biker and user of the Local trails as well as a Nelson Ratepayer (rental property in Stoke), I have always taken an interest in what happens in regards to the MTB trails under NCC control. It was a shame the council lost control of the forestry ownership along with control of the many MTB trails many of us use for the betterment of our health and social development.Short of buying back or regaining control of the forestry, (most likely not an option), in my opinion the NCC should quietly work away at rebuilding the tracks on Council controlled land over a period of time as they are a major asset to the community not to mention the income they generate for the region. A good example of what they are worth is to compare the Coppermine ride to the Lake Dunstan Trail in Cromwell.It always blows me away at the number of families and young children riding the trails which has to be a positive dynamic in the building of their confidence and developing their social and sporting skills as they grow.Thankyou for the chance to have my say - Regards Jack Currie | 248.1 |
| I am flabbergasted that any other approach than this would even be an option to any sane individual with a long term view! It is clear to me that Nelson's social and commercial value (via tourism) lies in its exceptional natural beauty and close proximity to pristine natural environments. This is all put at risk by running commercial logging right on our doorstep that scars the landscape, pollutes our rivers, and ruins our natural environment. But an even bigger issue than that, is protecting our homes and our very lives from the ever-increasing risk of fire in this changing climate. We know that longer hot, dry spells are coming, and that means elevated fire risk. We are now seriously at risk of most or all of Nelson going up in flames, and probability tells us the fire will start in a pine forest on the city limits. Its a complete no-brainer to protect our city by removing the pines and replacing them with a protective barrier of native forest. Surely the insurance premium savings alone, would cover the cost to do this! | 252.2 |
| Modern Forestry practices leave lots of debris and this ends up washing down stream and into the sea. Commercial conifer forests are ecologically poor and do not support diverse species. | 255.3 |
| Increase trail network. Encourage gondola and biking trails | 266.3 |
| it is time to move on from forestey. Environmental impacts are too great for no economic benefit | 270.3 |
| Little to no financial gain (when factoring damage caused as a consequences of forestry) for major environmental damage. | 273.2 |
| i would like to see a more environmentally minded shift away from forestry. This would create a more biodiverse environment, allow for the halo effect of the brook sanctuary to take off and reduce fire risks etc in the summer..i would like to see this shift still allowing for recreational access- and infact improve recreational access to these areas- mountain biking could be improved as the trails wouldnt be damaged and closed intermittently due to forestry works and it potentially become a real draw for mountain biking tourism to the region | 275.3 |
| option 2 for high amenity areas, there is scope for commerical forestry to help generate income | 282.3 |
| Nelson has such rich wildlife and the potential to grow so many taonga species | 287.2 |
| Native cover is best for flood protection, fire protection and cabon sinc. | 289.3 |
| The proximity of greenspace to the CBD is an awesome feature of Nelson. Given the impact of clear feeling forest at harvest time on waterways and the ecological benefits of maintaining a continuous canopy I think it's any obvious choice to reture land from commercial forestry to support biodiversity and recreational values | 291.3 |
| More native trees, more places to play in native forest near Nelson please! | 297.3 |
| Usage for recreational users is impacted hugely when trees are felled due to forestry where trails are present. This disruption can cause people to stop walking/cycling due to a lack of other safe (off-roads) areas to do so and therefore negatively impact their health and well-being. Also hundreds of hours of volunteer and non-volunteer are used to build and maintain these trails, which of course are mostly destroyed during the forestry harvest process, causing more resources to be wasted. I would like to see more areas around Nelson not being used for commercial forestry and instead see a permanent forest planted instead. | 302.2 |
| Quite apart from the known environmental impact, my understanding is this is not a profit maker for the Council/community. I so appreciate the efforts of Rachel Sanson when she was being persecuted for having a different opinion from the then Mayor & Council. What a huge breakthrough that a pause was finally put on just barrelling ahead and leaving the decision for another 30yrs. | 304.3 |
| I welcome this approach as the damage to all waterways under the current logging regime is unacceptable | 307.3 |
| This is the only way to help future safe Nelson and the Nelson community from adverse weather events and it is also a better, more financially viable (given status quo is not returning any profit/rate relief to ratepayers) and more environmentally responsible land use for the Nelson owned forestry estate. We are a community full of people the value recreation and the more opportunities we can provide the better. It will provide Nelson with more environmental resilience over time and will actually provide meaningful value to the Nelson community and wider environment.Well done to the taskforce and councillors for taking this on and accepting the taskforce recommendations. | 309.1 |
| i | 314.3 |
| keep the trees so were able to ride in the land and make a long term agreement with ngati koata | 318.1 |
| Work with ngati koata to keep our tracks and the trees and make a long term agreement | 320.1 |
| This is critical for biodiversity, to reduce hazards - slips, flooding, fire risk, wear and tear on infrastructure and will capture carbon in the long term.Any continuing forestry operations should have permanent plantings on all edges. Jobs will be created for weed control and caring for the forests. The fazing out plantings should include hardwood trees such as Eucalyptus saligna and sweet chestnut, Castanea sativa for durable timber production. A plan for the timing is important, to be sure it occurs. | 323.3 |
| Work with professional consultants Mosaic Aotearoa to establish a sound alternative forestry model. | 324.1 |
| I think that the cost of replanting a native forests is a very high liability it's very difficult to do the release clearing the slow growth rates of the trees, it's not easy and the cost and difficulty grossly underestimated by most people. The other thing with exotic forests is that they grow bigger and taller and sequester more carbon per hectare than a mature native forest. I think in a lot of cases one should plant the commercial forest species and run them on very long rotations or maybe never harvest them at all. The emissions trading scheme would I think support this approach. (depends of the ETS category of the land of course.) | 330.3 |
| council needs to work with ngati koata to make a extended plan to keep our mountain bike trail network open | 334.1 |
| maintaining an income souce from managed forestry surely is critical to keep the pressure off rate payers. | 337.3 |
| COUNCILS FORESTRY APPROACH | 346.6 |
| Would like to see more native trees planted and less exotic ,ie, pine. This will also mean that long term the land will be less prone to slips and also support the native bird life. However, would then like to see NCC build more tracks for walking and MTB. I have recently moved from Wellington and missing the amazing Town Belt that goes round the city with tracks joining it all up from South coast to Northern suburbs. By NCC taking over all teh forestry and creating its own 'town belt' you have the opportunity to greatly increase the recreational facilities making Nelson an even better place to live. | 353.3 |
| yeap, agree with Council's proposal BUT, invest and focus on developing the industrial hemp fiber industry in the region...pay attention to that crop. | 359.3 |
| I make this decision with a conservation mindset in that it will be beneficial for the surrounding environment that the commercial forest become native. However if this was to negatively affect the recreational activities of mountain biking, hiking, running and more, then I say we keep it accessible for these activities and do native regeneration | 369.3 |
| I live in the Maitai Valley and have seen our beautiful river suffer from the effects of the forestry. Trees to expensive to harvest due to their close proximity to the river and walkway are left to fall over by themselves. During a dry summer of which we had plenty lately the risk of fires in tinder dry forests is waiting to happen. | 377.1 |
| I think we need a continuous canopy of mixed species and one day we could have the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary replicates all through that area. | 390.3 |
| the slips we have seen are largely contributed due to the de-forrestation. Plqnt natives to hold our soil and hills together | 400.3 |
| wonderful that the council us consudering this. It would make such a difference to the MaitaiValley, for instance. | 403.1 |
| costings never account for the negative harm caused by forestry. I had huge costs and inconvenience from the August storm and not a word from the forestry companies. An offer of help or timber would have been appreciated. There should be continuous forest cover to stabilize the soil and to lock in the carbon. | 408.3 |
| I would support fast-tracking this process as much as is possible and bringing community groups into the process as much as possible (helping secure their buy-in to ongoing volunteer support in the future - a significant resource not to be undervalued) | 412.3 |
| we need to rewild nz asap | 413.3 |
| Currently most commercial forestry on steepland involves the clearcutting of Radiata pine as is the case for NCC commercial plantations. Radiata is a relatively low value timber which requires clearcutting to be economic. However, this clearcutting inevitably results in externalised costs such as sedimentation of waterways, and the risks of landslides and flooding. Nelson and a number of other places have experienced this recently and the risks are increasing as the effects of climate change increase. | 416.1 |
| I strongly support the Council exiting from comercial pine forestry in favour of a continuous canopy of mixed species, including natives and high-value hardwoods. | 417.3 |
| a mixed canopy cover approach will take a very long time and likely wont be work, this approach will cost more money then the social value is worth. The current commerical approach provides value to the region and council, espacially jobs. Improving the relationship with forestry and the public especially with recreation value such as hunting or cycling should be prioritised. | 420.3 |
| the mtb and trails are a great asset for nelson, which would benefit from moving away from a commercial forestry model Envionmental benefits too | 427.3 |
| The soil types and erosive nature of the slopes mean that any clear- felling of forests is always going to result in flooding and slips downstream. Current methods of logging where logs are left to rot or get washed down stream are irresponsible in an environment of residential and urban properties and activity. In an era of warming climate and more rain we need to keep an evergreen forest cover to absorb the rainfall and prevent massive slips of silt and topsoil and slow the pace of rainfall entering the streams and rivers in the valley below, to avoid the consequences of flooding. | 435.1 |
| I feel that is extremely important because of the enhanced myriad recreation opportunities having a diverse canopy would provide versus traditional logging which means that any investment by volunteer groups in recreation infrastructure within that commercial canopy is often obliterated. | 438.2 |
| NC should exit commercial forestry asap, and dramatically enhance it's planting of natives. | 441.3 |
| I support the council's proposal for the move to exit commercial forestry. I believe any consideration of costs needs to include the downstream effects of harvesting sediment and flooding, and I support a shift to forestry with a continuous canopy of mixed species, including natives and high value hardwoods. | 442.2 |
| There is an aesthetic issue: pinus radiata and it's destructive harvesting cycle result in a hideous backdrop to our city. What I think we need is the range of colour, shape and size that comes from re-cloaking the hills with native speciesThere is an environmental issue: the run-off from pine forests and the impact of a one species is devastating for water quality, soil quality and diversity of flora and fauna.There is an economic issue: these forests do not pay their wayThere is a resiliency issue: the hills surrounding Nelson are vulnerable to severe rain events of which there have been many in the past 4 decades I have lived here. Pinus radiata forests do not improve the resiliency of the land in these events - native forests do. There are many people who would volunteer to plant natives as my community has done in Murphy St and both the east and west slopes of upper Emano St - we would all help again! | 447.3 |
| thr council only think of lining their own pockets, they need to get their hands out of other people's pockets | 450.3 |
| There are several compelling reasons to allow the Maitai Valley to revert to native forest. First, commercial logging on steep hills is bound to cause erosion, adversely effecting the river's health. Also it is good for biodiversity - we need as broad a range of species, eg pollinating insects, as possible. And as an active beekeeper, I'm mindful that the original species, largely manuka and kanuka, are a source of high-value honey. | 459.1 |
| Yes, Yes, Yes. I commend the Council for seeking change at last. Several generations of my family lived and farmed in the Maitai Valley at Smith's Ford. I grew up in the valley too, and I am so strongly against the pine plantations in the valley. They have degraded the river and valley badly. Please get rid of commercial forestry ASAP !Continuous cover forest will greatly improve the recreational value of the valley, improve the ability of the forest to slow water run-off in high rainfall events, improve water quality and any extra cost to the Council will be offset by the huge savings being made by eliminating the unseen effects of harvesting, sediment and flooding in the valley and marina. | 463.2 |
| Try to plant more native as possible! | 464.3 |
| very supportive of the long term plan to exit forestry. Much better environment and flow on health benefits to the residents. Pollen is a severe issue that debilitates many people. Ideally all hills surrounding Nelson will be reverted to native bush. | 466.3 |
| That’s enabling more council recreation areas. | 475.3 |
| Exiting slowly with the aim to earn Carbon credits instead of increasing rates and or debt. | 486.3 |
| I would prefer for the council for the move to exit commercial forestry. I support a shift to mixed species forestry, including natives and high value hardwoods. Any cost considerations should include downstream effects of harvesting sediment and flooding. | 496.3 |
| Grow a range of forestry type to benefit the community incluidng: biodeiversity, food, carbon seqiestration and stabisliation of slopes. Do not get stucck in the binary thinking indigenous good non-indigenous bad. Decisions should be based on ecosystem and comunity benefits across the range of areas, slopes, land types and topography…. | 497.3 |
| I strongly support this option and an exit by Council from commercial forestry. Returning the land to its natural forest state with increased access for recreation would benefit the city environmentally and for social well being. | 500.3 |
| I dont know enough about the costings of councils forestry | 504.3 |
| This is a move toward protecting houses and land from future flood damage, an improvement in forestry use by people, an improvement visually in the backdrop to our city, and a saving in the cost of cleaning up slash and flood damage. It is the responsible choice for the future. | 507.1 |
| I strongly support the Council's proposal. | 510.3 |
| Make the trail network in Nelson a higher priority ! The trail network in Nelson has allowed me to improve my riding level and skills to be able to compete at elite world level racing placing me 16th in the world in the Elite Female in 2023. The trail network here is like non other in NZ, these are wold class trails that have people traveling from across NZ and the globe to ride and race on and would be a huge shame if we were to loose the access to them all. Not only that but I work in a mountain bike shop, our clients are those who ride these trails, without the clients I wouldn’t have a job to go too. | 517.1 |
| The current situation is very damaging to the environment and is polluting our Maitai river - the only river in Nelson that has summer swimming holes. | 519.3 |
| I support council's initiative to exit commercial forestry.Specifically, it's really important that we shift away from commercial forestry and instead plan for a continuous canopy of mixed species, including natives and high value hardwoods.Although there are additional costs involved with this approach, there are important benefits for the environment.In particular, it's important that the downstream effects of harvesting sediment and flooding are taken into consideration. | 520.1 |
| SUBMISSION -NCC Long Term Plan 2024-34“COUNCIL’S FORESTRY APPROACH”Advertised optionsOPTION 1 Retain current commercial forestry approachOPTION 2 Change approach. Exit commercial forestry over time and grow a continuous canopy of mixed species. This would be managed as one area and would improve recreational access particularly on the fringe of the city.” Suggested/ Requestedoption 3Clear felling of exotic commercial forestry on :-very steep / slip prone hillsides in proximity of creeks, streams, lakes and riversall areas within a reasonable distance from urban housing [city fringe] and areas frequently used recreationally4 Continue commercial forestry on accessible, suitable areas [excluding slip prone slopes, waterways, urban fringe and frequently used recreational areas].[This suggested third option provides a balanced forestry policy providing a continuing income to cover weed control , replanting costs and hopefully a dividend for NCC] BRBayley | 528.1 |
| Commercial forestry close to residential areas is impractical and unsafe - native forests make more sense. | 529.3 |
| Support the council's proposed approach. The current extent of, and approach to, commercial forestry is an environmental travesty. It would be fantastic to see the council lead a transition to predominantly native forests. Native forests wield improved biodiversity, landscape, and possible carbon value (pending changes to ETS). They also wield economic value through supporting recreational opportunities, building resilience and reducing risk on property and environment associated with fire and extreme weather events, improving nearby property values, and supporting product markets like rongoā. I support the recommendations in the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce Report. The transition should happen at pace, starting with currently bare harvested land. I question the assumption of expense and long-term loss of income. Accounting should consider the current (not easily monetised) cost of commercial forestry on society and the environment. It should also capture the full range of benefits (economic and otherwise) of a predominantly native forest canopy. Council should lead the way. It would be fantastic to see the LTP acknowledge the role of council in supporting private/iwi/other commercial forestry enterprises in transitioning to improved land use. | 534.2 |
| We need the money | 541.3 |
| Kia ora, Considering the current state of the environment and degradation trends we need to take action before it is too late. For this reason option 2 is best for our future. Not changing over to mixed canopy is shortsighted and result in further erosion/flooding issues. I believe any consideration of costs needs to include the downstream effects of harvesting sediment and flooding.Nga mihi,Thalassa | 542.1 |
| Yes it may cost more dollars in the short term but the payback in environmental benefits and reduced risk of property damage in heavy rain events will be massive | 550.3 |
| We have got to start thinking to longer tern sustainability | 551.2 |
| Best for long term future and should replace economic gain of forests with gain from tourism, mountainbiking and general population health & happiness! | 557.3 |
| This is a fabulous solution and one that I have been pushing for for years now. As native forests are more resistant to drought and fire, and don't need to be logged, it will enable: | 559.3 |
| I'd prefer to see a cessation of all forestry harvesting in eyesight of the city. When the hills around Nelson are freshly harvested it is an eyesore and not something that visitors to our town would want to spend time looking at. We will be a much better proposition for visiting when we are a town with easy access to our waterfront surrounded by forest as it existed pre-human arrival. | 583.3 |
| I think the city needs to embrace the potential income from adventure sports and recreation mal activities that can be generated with a reliably accessible forest network. | 587.2 |
| There are great enironmental benefits from this proposal that will also be aesthetically pleasing for locals and tourists. | 597.3 |
| There are great enironmental benefits from this proposal that will also be aesthetically pleasing for locals and tourists. | 597.12 |
| I support moving away from current commercial forestry (pine trees) and replacing them with New Zealand native forest plantings. This should help clean-up waterways, reduce silt in Tasman Bay, reduce hillside land-slips, reduce flooding issues, and support New Zealand fauna/flora to make a comeback. | 599.3 |
| More native forest, but keep some commercial pine forests. It's good to have variety. | 609.2 |
| plant native trees that can be harvested in the future by the next generation. Pine trees are not a viable option | 613.3 |
| Change approach and exit commercial forestry around the city and rivers but continue the activity in areas where it is suitable to support local businesses otherwise local business is dependent solely on importing logs into the region and leaves key industries vulnerable. Work with industry partners to identify suitable land and return the unsuitable land to a continuous canopy of mixed species | 631.3 |
| Surely it can be better managed . | 641.3 |
| It would appear as though the council has never made a profit over the duration of forestry on its land. It would appear to be a liability and problematic for the council.Please plant in natives and/or exotics that in years to come will provide a wonderful backdrop for the city. It will also drastically reduce or remove the hazards associated with forestry. | 650.1 |
| a continuous and mostly native forest around Nelson would be a huge improvement for recreational amenity, aesthetics, and enhanced support to the halo-effect from the Brook sanctuary. We have seen multiple times the problems arising from clear-felling of pine forests in terms of the cost and inconvenience to ratepayers from an activity which seeks to provide profits for companies at the expense of the general public and ratepayer.this is another opportunity for Nelson to single itself out as the best living environment in NZ, bar non. Having a city backdrop of native forest and clear rivers would enhance the city well beyond any economic profit or loss equation | 657.1 |
| Long term I feel this would improve the biodiversity and soil stability and health of our forests.See also additional comments regarding Mountain Biking. | 659.3 |
| I support the move to continuous canopy, and feel the benefits outweigh the projected costs. I don't support commercial pine forestry on council land in our city hinterland as clear felling can result in erosion and degradation to water quality and risks during flooding. As well as reducing those risks there other benefits to having a more continuous forest cover including higher species diversity and improved recreation and aesthetic values in our city hinterland. | 670.1 |
| We should not allow a clear felling approach to forestry in the Maitai Valley. Leaving the slopes of the Maitai river clear of trees would certainly have worsened the flooding in 2022 due to increased water levels and debris. The clear felling of forests is also contributing to silt deposits in the haven and Tasman Bay, impacting wildlife. | 674.3 |
| Exit out ASAP as bare hillsides are both ugly and environmentally unsound and detrimental. | 675.3 |
| To change the Council owned forestry to mixed, native forest would be wonderful for the environment and in time a beautiful view from the city. | 677.2 |
| Unsure | 682.3 |
| I support Council being examples of good environmental stewardship and exiting forestry that relies on clear felling harvest. It also leads to recreational gains and more beauty and diversity in our local environment | 683.1 |
| The taskforce has produced sound reasons for this new approach e.g. improving soil stability on slopes and eliminating forestry slash problems.Note: Other commercial forestry on the city fringe will continue to cause problems until better harvesting and slash management regimes are implemented. | 687.3 |
| I think halfway between the 2 proposals would work well. In areas like the Brook, it would be good to change to native bush / mixed canopy. Keeping pines away from houses is a good idea, after the Council poisoned wild pines above brook street leading to a buy out of properties because of danger / slip conditions that the council created. One assumes this buy out was at a cost to the rate payer.?!?! So, to stop this happening in the future, keep pine away from residential areas. I have struggled to find information on what pine trees are actually owned by the Council (vs Ngati Koata), but if they own the trees up the Maitai, past the campground and up to the Dam, these seem like good trees to continue to harvest / forest as pine.Changing the pines up Marden Valley to Barnicoat range (again if this are owned by Council) to native would be a nice back drop for the city, but only if this is at a neutral cost to the rate payer. Planting costs of Natives should be done with minimum cost, but if the loss of income from pine is a huge deficit, then keeping / replanning pine here should continue. Roding seems like it should be fine kept in pine. | 694.3 |
| I strongly support the planting of a variety of native and exotic trees to replace the pine forests. This will help stabilize our hillsides and reduce forestry slash which can have devastating effects on private/ public land and also our waterways. Forestry slash ends up on our beaches. It is important that our community works toward reducing our carbon emissions and these permanent forests would absorb and store carbon. They also provide recreational opportunities. | 695.3 |
| I support the Councils preferred option as hopefully it will reduce future flood damage, as well as problems in the harbour caused by slash | 706.1 |
| Absolutely!. Commercial forestry is selling the nutrients of our land and puttling our water and communities at risk. | 720.3 |
| NCC should not be in the forestry business, nor by distracted by non-essential rate payer services. | 729.3 |
| Is it an option to only remove commercial forestry where it is in the vicinity of our residental areas and the Maitai catchment? Forestry is a necessary industry for NZ and we should look at ways to continue doing forestry, but in a more sustainable way. Move it away from areas where erosion and slash will have a significant negative impact, move it away from areas with highly-erodible geology, and add in requirements for non-harvestable riparian planting in the gullys to act as a silt & slash catch-area | 732.3 |
| The "Right Tree Right Place" Project, which provides an opportunity to | 733.3 |
| Potentially a land swap could be done with Iwi for access to recreational tracks? | 734.3 |
| While we dont currently live in NCC area, we are members of Nelson MTB club and travel to the area every week for kids training and riding. Permanant forest canopy would preserve the efforts of track builders and allow better and more permanant tracks within the region. The exisiting track network is a wonderful resource which is worth travelling to from out of town every week. | 743.1 |
| Retain forestry where viable and providing money but convert some areas to Native where have high recreational use. | 747.3 |
| green is good for Nelson | 749.3 |
| The saying "now we know better, we need to do better" comes to mind. The impact of forestry erosion on Tasman Bay is well documented.... just stop! | 751.3 |
| Make forestry grow a native buffer between forestry and roads and also waterways. To help stop the mess caused by landslides (especially after logging)covering roads and blocking waterways. | 756.2 |
| Native forests, biodiversity and non-motorized recreation have way more value to our environment, economy and resiliency of our city than pine logs do. | 773.3 |
| While being supportive of the fazing out of the commercial forestry This should be done progressively and using methods that do not require large expensive planting programs. Using natural seeding in combination with very good pest control is a better option. | 774.2 |
| This approach would support council commitments in other areas (Nelson Biodiversity Strategy, etc.). It would also protect our natural freshwater services, as well as marine restoration by reducing sedimentation in our waterways. | 784.3 |
| Commercial forestry creates monocultures and pine tree farms not native, biodiverse forests. Wildlife and the environment will benefit from adding more native and mixed species. In addition, silt will be reduces and our waters will be cleaner and land more resilient to flooding, storms, and climate change which is continually getting worse. If you chose to exit out of forestry, this can have monumental impacts for future generations that will be so grateful in the long-term. | 785.3 |
| Forestry is a dying market and we should be planting native trees. | 786.3 |
| The council should plant native species endemic to nelson and enlarge our conservation land to reintroduce native flora and fauna to our area. This will enhance everyone's well being and health. | 806.3 |
| Commercial forestry on our Nelson hills is ridiculous and an enormous strain on our environment. 1: Monteray pines and Douglas fir forests are vectors for environmental weeds like pampas and old man's beard. These invade natural places like the Maitai and degrade the habitat. Additionally the pine species themselves become weeds.2: siltation, slips and nutrient run off degrades our freshwater ecosystems, landscapes and ocean ecosystems. Silt has major effects on bivalves, seaweeds and biodiverse habitats on the coast. Revegetating pine forests with native vegetation will also allow native coastal ecosystems to recover. Native fish species will also benefit.3: Native forest will be better for carbon sequestration, biodiversity and aesthetics. Forestry does not sequester carbon as well as forever native forests. Biodiversity can be enhanced by creating habitat for endangered birds, plants, lizards and snails that are unique to nelson. The belt of forestry is an eye sore, with horrific scars left by erosion and open felled sections.4: forestry poses a fire risk to biodiverse areas as well as being a danger to people.I ask that you consider the populations of brown creepers that live in forestry sections around marsden valley that may become extirpated by felling. Explore ways to mitigate this damage. I do not wish that this land be reused for housing or farming or other developments, but to be revegetated with native plants and maintained to avoid them becoming weedy or overrun with browsing pests. | 807.3 |
| this would make for a much more pleasant experience mountain biking which i believe is one of the regions greatest attributes | 808.3 |
| Sooner this happens the better | 809.3 |
| Pine plantations have attributed negatively during recent flood events and have seriously impacted the health of the Maitai river. Retiring the forest to native planting will be a positive move. | 822.1 |
| There is no doubt in my mind that the present operation must remain unchanged. The current operation should remain self funding. The cost of replacing with other species will be high.. All of the trees would have to be container grown and when planted they would need a lot more clearing/ maintenance than pines. They are also slower growing and it would take much longer for them to be of any benefit in relation to land stability. Having other species would not change the recreational value at all. And there is likely to be further harvesting advances in the future whish could help the rubbish/ slash damage to the environment. | 828.3 |
| You have asked for a public endorsement of the proposal to move away from Radiata and towards a continuous canopy of mixed species. I fully support this approach.I consider it a priority that the areas which are currently bare (having been harvested) should be replanted in appropriate, permanent, native tress as soon as is practicable. A repeat of the August 2022 rain event is inevitable, and thoughtful planting now could serve to reduce the flood damage downstream.In the medium and longer term, there is considerable benefit in a continuous canopy from both an ecological and a water management point-of-view.Although you have suggested that Nelson could claim some kudos as a leader in future-focused land management, we actually have much to learn from other cities that have already moved in this direction. In particular, I am thinking of Rotorua, where the forest close to the city is managed primarily for recreation and the city is now a "mountain bike magnet" for the whole North Island. (You could research the estimated economic benefit that bikers bring to the city.) Similarly, Wellington manages its' forest primarily for water and allows recreation. Both examples show that trees can have much more value when left standing than when harvested.I am not sure if you will have considered all of the implications of the proposed change of approach - for example the control of invasive pests (rodents, mustelids etc) in bush areas around the city typically falls to small informal groups of volunteers. I am involved with one in the Maitai. If, over time, we are to see an expansion of the area covered in mixed, diverse forest species, we can also expect to see an expansion of the range and number of pests. The Council could look to increase the support and funding that it offers to groups involved in pest control, and I suggest that The Council also has a role in publicly acknowledging the work of these volunteers and in encouraging others to join in with the work. | 835.1 |
| Thank you for the opportunity to submit on the Council’s Long Term Plan. | 838.1 |
| The way the cost of making this change is presented in the LTP is misleading. The costs need to factor in the costs of NOT transitioning, which include flood repairs, and mitigation of the impact of sediment on the Maitai River. | 838.3 |
| forestry damages our environment | 847.3 |
| council should exit commercial forestry over time as each area is harvest. A continuous canopy of NATIVE ONLY should be planted to replace the commercial forestry. | 849.3 |
| I am very glad that Council has done a review of the whole of forestry. Although it is more expensive yes it makes sense to consider not just the $600 ha of pine but to consider all forests as a whole in terms of management of pests etc. I'm personally not quite sure how the mixed canopy would compare ecologically to a fully indigenous canopy, but I defer to the taskforce experts and support their recommendations. It is for the greater long term good environmentally etc to move away from just continuous pine forestry so I am in support. Good job. | 851.3 |
| 1. Pine (Eucalyptus and other fire species) have aromatic, volatile oils which rise in the air and can attract fire from a great distance, depending on the wind conditions. A few decades age there was a severe drought and a very frightening fire up the Maitai Valley. Homes had to be abandoned. It was striking that the native forest remnants in the valleys did not burn. It is likely that the valley sides were too steep for easy pine planting. Similarly, there was a severe fire on the west facing slope of Tirohia Marama (aka Grampians) and again pines easily burnt.2. Logging trucks will eventually not need to use Nile Street and side streets and CBD roads to get to the Port. This will reduce traffic and congestion.3. Permanent native forest will sequester Carbon over a long period in contrast to the short commercial logging cycle. | 860.1 |
| We support the exit of commercial forestry and the development of a climate friendly regional economy in parallel to manage the impact on job losses.Cyclone Gabrielle has demonstrated the horrific environmental impact of commercial forestry in the event of a weather event. Moving our community towards climate resilience should be considered a high priority, and commercial forestry hold us back from this. | 864.3 |
| lease the land to a private company and let them deal with it. | 874.3 |
| I agree with the eventual replacement of Council-owned pine forests with permanent native forests.However, in preparation for this, I request that a targetted effort be made to reduce and finallyeliminate old mans beard from the city, including from private land. I recall a budget item for thispurpose some years ago but no appreciable result was achieved probably because the effort was notsustained. Understand that you need to go back again and again to treat major infestations of thispest which is flourishing all over the place. Seeds will be flying and colonising all the spaces youare trying to revegetate unless a determined and sustained effort is made. Please include a budgetitem for this specific purpose spread over at least five years. | 878.1 |
| Forestry with a mono-culture of pines has proven disastrous in every country on this planet. Our hills are too steep slash disasters after heavy rain loss of top soil clogging the rivers destroying bridges then clogging beaches polluting the water our lungs with the heavy pollen ...need more scientific reports that it seems members of NCC are not informed of!!! | 881.3 |
| For the past two years I have been a director of a 320ha family-owned forestry block in Otago. In that role I have learned a lot about plantation forests. I support the council’s change away from plantation forests. I support more planting of natives and permanent species. Hopefully the Nelson City Council can register in the ETS and get some economic benefit from carbon credits. This could be used to offset cost of managing such areas. | 882.3 |
| I'm strongly in favour of surrounding Nelson in forests that are less of fire hazard & have more environmental resilience in rain/ storm events. Part of this plan should include the addition of recreational infrastructure like walking/ mountain biking tracks into the replanted forests. Quality recreational infrastructure is a draw card for visitors, residents & talented people looking to move to Nelson. | 883.3 |
| The more species the healthier our environment! | 884.3 |
| Create more native bush and support biodiversity to fight climate change. | 885.3 |
| Save the wildlife and the native trees! | 886.3 |
| NPHS Te Waipounamu supports the exit of commercial forestry as it provides for a holistic approach to the management of NCC’s native and exotic forests. This option proposes to develop a long-term asset for the community with improved environmental, recreational and social outcomes. Trees are good for our natural environment as they absorb carbon from the atmosphere, support flood mitigation and encourage biodiversity | 887.2 |
| It is Essential these Forest come under the control of the council so that we can add the Destination Nelson as one of the worlds best MTB destinations | 892.3 |
| Yes, support reindigenising our forests and moving away from pine forestry to native high value forest, it would be best in my opinion to plant natives only or possibly very well researched exotics amongst natives if the experts want that but ideally natives especially on steeper areas and maybe food producing exotics/fruit trees in high use public or designated forgaing areas makes sense to me. Also ensure the changeover of tree types is done bit by bit to avoid higher cost flood or slip events | 894.3 |
| As a participant in the Right Tree, Right Place workshops - it is absolutely crucial that Council takes this opportunity to shift away from the current approach which is aggravating soil and erosion loss, creates an unsightly backdrop to the city when harvesting is underway, and does not stack up as a wise investment. The alternative provides multiple co-benefits, and the opportunity to show leadership, improve biodiversity and climate resilience, and to create a more pleasant backdrop to the wider Nelson City environs. | 898.2 |
| Through an extensive process over the past 15 months, the Kotahitanga mō te Taiao Alliance agreed upon a Strategy Implementation Pathway Plan. A 2 page summary document is attached to this submission. Key issues were identified through that process that impact upon the natural environment, including our lands, waterways and surrounding seas. Sedimentation featured very highly as one of the most significant aggravating factors, one that not only impacted our land ecosystems, but is also driving the loss of and potential for restoration of abundant shellfish communities in the Bay. Another issue that arose was the need to transition to improved permanent forest cover for a multiplicity of reasons, including reducing the loss of soil, improved carbon sequestration, improved riparian and coastal margins, improved biodiversity, floodplain and corridor connectivity. The Right Tree, Right Place taskforce gave a thorough and concerted consideration of the issues, inviting a significant number of community members (with expertise and/or other knowledges) to contribute to the process. The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is currently working on a programme to improve opportunities for transitioning away from pine plantation forestry where there are obvious benefits from doing so. As TNC has an MOU with the KMTT Alliance (of which NCC is a signatory), there is an opportunity for us to work collaboratively to help identify opportunities, e.g. exploring alternative income streams; and other potential sustainable finance mechanisms. We are currently engaging with Council staff in discussions on how to carry this forward. TNC Global has provided funding to KMTT for a Reforestation Accelerator Initiative with similar values to the work of the Right Tree, Right Place taskforce/NCC outputs. We are working on a number of initiatives to help accelerate reforestation, including developing mapping tools, and looking at both financial and non-financial incentives. We are working closely with international teams to consider business models and ways of working to reduce costs. We look forward to working collaboratively where opportunities allow to progress this thoughtful initiative of Council. | 899.1 |
| I agree with stopping planting pines and move to planting native trees which absorb more carbon and hold onto the soil better than pines. | 904.3 |
| The downstream impacts of commercial forestry in the catchments behind our wee city were clear to me as one of many who sought to try and clean up the water and the beaches after the August 2022 rainfall event. The increased sedimentation in our rivers and estuaries from clear-felling practices cause further issues. I also have concerns around what happens when exotic pinus radiata plantations become uneconomic to harvest due to the price of carbon. These monoculture biodiversity 'deserts' are not what we want on the fringes of our city in the future. The proposed continuous canopy mixed species forestry provides a fantastic opportunity to bring a recreational focus to the councils forested areas. | 909.3 |
| use the forest as carbon credits. No more logging, better management of current species and more phased planting. More pest control. | 919.3 |
| We don't need as many commercial forestry operations as we currently have. Yes we need houses but we are not producing only what is necessary. Our forestry industry is profiting off selling wood to other countries at the cost of our land and rivers. This also drives up the cost of Domestic product. the Tasman Bay area is also prone to erosion from the 30% reduced ground water that is caused by pine forest followed by the heavy rains. I propose that we put more emphasis on native forests and trails so that our tourism industry can get back to it's glory days and become our Primary Industry. | 923.3 |
| More emphasis on planting natives please | 925.3 |
| The inclusion of exotic (not native) species in the replanting should be avoided. Using exotic plants in the replanting will not only look ugly but will lead to spread of non native plants into neighbouring areas and future costs in removing them. | 926.3 |
| Pine forestry has created so many problems, increasing flooding with slash that block waterway and retain water. Silting of the Nelson estuary is a problem as not all the fine particles accumulated along the Sewer plan road access during the August 2022 are not being wash out by the tidal currents.There are no scallops left n Tasman Bay as the bay floor is covered in silt from forestry once it is harvested. | 931.2 |
| I wholeheartedly support the transition from commercial forestry to replanting the 600 hectares of council-owned land with a continuous canopy of mixed native species. This decision would have a profound impact on our region's biodiversity, conservation efforts, and recreational appeal, while also sending a powerful message about our commitment to environmental stewardship.The benefits of mixed native forests for biodiversity and conservation are well-documented. Research has shown that these forests support a significantly higher variety of native flora and fauna compared to commercial monoculture plantations. By providing a diverse range of habitats and food sources, mixed native forests create a haven for endangered species and contribute to the overall health of our ecosystems. Moreover, these forests play a vital role in regulating water cycles, preventing soil erosion, and sequestering carbon, thereby helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.In addition to the ecological benefits, transitioning to mixed native forests would greatly enhance Nelson's appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation and eco-tourism. The natural beauty of these forests, with their diverse canopy and understory, would attract both locals and visitors seeking to immerse themselves in nature. Additionally, it's important to note that the impact of this decision extends far beyond the 600 hectares directly managed by the council. By taking this step, the council would send a resounding message about the value we place on biodiversity and our commitment to preserving our natural heritage. This leadership would inspire private landowners, businesses, and the wider community to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that amplifies the positive impact on our environment. As more stakeholders prioritize the restoration of native habitats, we can create a network of thriving, interconnected ecosystems that support a rich tapestry of life.Further, securing long-term recreational access to forestry tracks and trails is crucial for our community, visitors, and events. Mountain biking alone has the potential to generate $48.8M in direct spend for Nelson Tasman, but current access limitations result in a significant loss of $18.5M. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, ensuring access to these natural assets provides immeasurable value to our residents' quality of life and attracts visitors seeking unique outdoor experiences. The proposed long-term agreement between the Council and Ngāti Koata for access to the Maitai Valley is a vital step towards unlocking the full potential of our region's recreational offerings. | 932.3 |
| The current approach doesn't make either financial or environmental sense. | 933.3 |
| Saves the disruption on the environment. | 934.3 |
| Incorporate the community here. Build trails for EV bikes and walking tracks through these new forested areas. This has great potential as a future tourist destination, thinking 10-15 years ahead. EV trail biking is a growth industry. | 939.3 |
| I definitely support more native tree planting. | 943.3 |
| I support the Council’s proposal to exit from commercial forestry. Having permanent native forest in the hills around Nelson will reduce risk from high rainfall events and reduce sedimentation of local waterways and estuaries. | 946.2 |
| Retirement of Forestry | 956.1 |
| OPTION 1 supported provided Commercial Forestry is operating at a profit and is earning desperately needed income . | 959.3 |
| I support food producing trees in public spaces. native trees in ex-forestry areas would be great! | 961.3 |
| A very good long term option | 963.3 |
| COUNCIL FORESTRY APPROACHExit commercial forestry | 982.3 |
| We concur with the findings of the Right Tree Right Place Task Force that all current NCC commercial forests should be transitioned into continuous-canopy forest systems, mostly of mixed species, that best meet community values and address climate risks. We support the exit of commercial forestry and the development of a climate friendly regional economy in parallel to manage the impact on job losses. Cyclone Gabrielle has demonstrated the horrific environmental impact of commercial forestry in the event of a weather event. Moving our community towards climate resilience should be considered a high priority, and commercial forestry holds us back from this. | 987.3 |
| This will be a great benefit to Nelson city. Native bush not only looks nicer as the backdrop for the city, but it enables a better interaction with nature and wildlife for all. Just seeing the destruction of the land from the last round of forestry down the Maitai valley it was pretty obvious that we can do better than that. Seeing the slips and the runoff during the floods, all the wood slash going down our rivers certainly made the floods worse. Having a native bush will not only help protect us from run off in the future but will help reconnect Nelson residents and visitors alike with our natural suroundings. I whole heartedly support this initiative. Great job bringing it to the forefront. | 995.3 |
| 3Forestry: Option 2. Pine plantations are fires waiting to happen and with our rising potential for droughts and electrical storms, their risks outweigh the gains in urban settings. | 1001.4 |
| Exiting commercial forestry in our sensitive river catchments is long overdue. Many thanks to Cr Sanson for her hard mahi on this. Shame its taken so long to get to this point, but better late than never. | 1002.3 |
| Regrowing native bush both works against climate disruption generally and also helps to shore up Nelson's defences against the extreme weather events we can expect from our refusal to stop burning fossil fuels. | 1003.3 |
| * if printing, please print in high definition colour*1. Weed Management and costsThis is my boundary with Council (photos taken 09/04/2024). A block of pine was harvested nearly 3 years ago and planted in native trees. This land is located in the Brook Valley, the top of this photo is part of Codgers Mountain Biking Network (skid site to upper P51).You can see the reality of what the result of transitioning Councils’ pine plantation to native forest will look like in Nelson - hillsides of weeds.It is a major biosecurity issue. These native trees planted (with large investment by Council) are unlikely to come to successful establishment next to this.This picture occurs at a time when Council weed budgets increased by $11 million. The cost of this transition will be massive and is underrepresented in costing estimates put forward. 2. Agreed terminology by all concerned is still not defined. I am aware PFOlsen (Council’s forest advisers) recently proposed a planting plan to plant Redwoods and Eucalypts in a steep area of the Maitai Valley on ex-pine harvested land that requires good erosion control. As far as ‘right tree, right place’ is concerned, these species are wonderful at providing slope stability given their coppicing nature, they grow well in Nelson and due to their slower growth, can result in less frequent selective harvesting (which is in line with RTRP task force continuous cover forest proposal). If fire is a concern – all forest will burn if people set fire to them and there are management options eg fire breaks, native planting buffers to reduce this risk.Points to note:- -CCF (Continuous Cover Forests) include, but are not limited to, native forests – exotic species are part of this forest option, - - CCF incorporates selective harvesting (it is not necessarily a never harvest situation) and, - -Right tree in the right place for the right purpose is not always a native tree. If Council are to follow the guidelines of the RTRP taskforce, they must be on the same page and understand what Continuous Cover Forestry is in practice. Definitions must be agreed with regard to what is Continuous Cover Forestry and what extent of harvesting Council is agreeable to within this regime – harvesting coup size, stems/ha harvested etc must be defined. The result of indecision on this block in the Maitai, is another year of not planting and another year of weed growth, increased weed seed bank in the soil, and increased chance of erosion given the land is within the period of greatest vulnerability to slips. The indecision will also result in an increase in costs to establish a new forest given the huge cost requirement for weed control.If the terminology is not agreed, the result of this plan change will continue to spiral in no-action with forest managers, council staff and the public still not certain of direction. | 1007.1 |
| I would prefer us to exit it as quickly as possible. Allowing our native bush to regenerate would help lessen disruption due to the climate crisis, and would provide some defence against the extreme weather events we can expect from our refusal to stop burning fossil fuels. | 1009.3 |
| Perhaps the council could get carbon credits for the new and existing forests. | 1016.3 |
| I am an active MTB rider and part of a weekly volunteer track maintenance team for NMBC. Observing the amazing work done in Codgers area - the new plantings flourishing and the awesome birdsong. Compare this to the absolute devastation and destroyed habitat for birdlife of the Sharlands clear felling of pines and also the pollution of creeks and rivers. The Councils preferred option needs more acceleration before it is too late.A policy of protection of access is also very urgent.Look at what this contributes to the Region. | 1018.3 |
| I have seen the forestry companies abuse the "health and safety" clause to exclude the public from council land. They have claimed "dangerous operations" while nothing was being done and no workers were on the hill. They also should be held accountable for slash runoff into the streams and rivers. Please maintain access to the top of Barnicoat via glider road. Hundreds if not thousands of Nelsonian and tourist Mtn bikers and Paragliders use the road to enjoy our beautiful region. (They also support the local economy). The paragliding club also maintains the top and would appreciate the opportunity to guide the planting. we would also appreciate support for future access to Kaka Peak and Fringed Hill in Maitai Valley.When the area below Barnicoat is developed (as marsden valley has been) we need a landing area east of the high power lines. Thank you | 1024.3 |
| I support the Council's recommendation that they change their practice to grow a continuous canopy of mixed species. This outcome will help mitigate the effects of severe storms as seen in August 2022 when pine forest slash were washed down the slopes and caused damage. It also will support keeping the hillsides intact from erosion and our declining biodiversity as well as sequestering carbon. It is the choice for the times. | 1034.3 |
| native species | 1039.1 |
| There needs to be a significan change from current practice My option would be mixed use options explored a phasing of harvestable timber (but avoiding steep hill country) would be more appropriate, enable long term security if timber availability and some carbon credit systems - sequestration is much better in estuary and wetland restoration and this would have far greater impacts for our intertidal biodiversity | 1040.3 |
| Make the maitai Valley, Renamed back to Matai Valley and planted out with more matais | 1044.3 |
| Firstly, a big thank you to Council for the decision to undertake a review of its 600ha of plantation forestry holdings. Secondly, congratulations to the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce for the thorough and comprehensive review of the council’s forestry holdings. The information, assessments, observations and preferences contained in the various reports and the well-foundered, evidence-based and wide-ranging recommendations should provide a strong strategic basis for Council to proceed with a staged approach to implementing the taskforce’s recommendations. If the recommendations are adopted and implemented over time with extensive community involvement they should result in profound positive benefits on the management of the City’s eastern hinterland and restoration of indigneous biodiversity values and provide increased recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. This in turn should not only provide personal health and social benefits but also considerable long term financial benefits to the wider community and future generations. Council’s options for forestryIn terms of the two options proposed, I strongly support Option 2 – Council’s proposal to change the current approach through exiting commercial forestry over time and to grow a continuous canopy of mixed species and manage the Council land as one area. Related priorities and considerationsTo enable option 2 to proceed it is crucial to quickly prepare a next steps strategy and to allocate adequate funding in the LTP to address the recommendations in the report requiring immediate action (14 & 15), the transition planning and high priority areas for action (16-19). The need to urgently address current issues with invasive pest animals and plants mentioned in several places in the report and is the focus of recommendation 5, will also need to have adequate funding in all years of the LTP. Otherwise, the current biodiversity degradation will continue to increase and become an even more difficult challenge to get on top of. While supporting the concept of mixed forests and having introduced canopy trees in appropriate areas that maybe harvested at some stage in the future, the location of such areas and the species used need to be carefully considered. I note that the report indicates that the most likely locations for consideration of some continued planting of timber species is some of the more accessible lower slopes in the Roding, which from my knowledge of the eastern hills I concur with. Such considerations include the impacts of providing ground access to such sites, impacts on waterways and establishment of adequate riparian margins, as well as ensuring that they do not contribute to additional wilding pines or other introduced species becoming future pest plants. I suggest that the ‘independent community entity’ included in recommendation 4 have in addition to tangata whenua also have a wide range of perspectives from the community including those with biodiversity expertise, and perhaps also involvement in the Nelson Biodiversity Forum. I also feel that recommendation 6 could be strengthened through the addition of “and biodiversity” after “climate” and in front of the last word “risks” so that it reads …. “and address climate and biodiversity risks”. As I mention in two paragraphs below it is widely accepted that we have a NZ and global biodiversity crisis (as well as a climate crisis). Other relevant considerationsWhile the report provides some background on previous discussions and reports on the development and impacts of forestry there have been significant changes in community attitudes and values as well as in council over the last 40 years or so that I believe are important for council and those who will be dealing with the implementation of the report to bear in mind. There has been increasing acknowledgement that NZ, and the rest of the world, is facing a biodiversity crisis with the loss of indigenous habitats particularly in lowland areas and the degradation of remaining areas through the spread of introduced browsing animals and the reduction in and loss of our special indigenous fauna. The conservation movement has largely moved from saving areas under threats of destruction to restoration of the biodiversity values over a wide range of habitats. These concerns and the desire to restore degraded areas was a major driver in the establishment of the Nelson Biodiversity Forum and the resulting Biodiversity Strategies developed jointly by Council, the Department of Conservation and other government agencies along with a wide of concerned community organisations and companies. Many existing organisations, such as Forest and Bird and Friends of the Maitai, took the lead in various restoration projects. It was also the key driver for the establishment of the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Trust and the creation of a predator-free sanctuary in Council’s former water management reserve in the upper Brook Valley. Many trapping groups have been working hard in areas around the sanctuary and in the corridor down the Brook Valley to reduce the numbers of animal pests, such as stoats, possums, weasels and rats, that were killing large numbers of birds. The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary and other conservation projects have shown that there is an “army of conservation volunteers” in our community who are very willing to regularly give their time and energy to enhancing the biodiversity values of our natural areas, including in riparian margins and the often quite rugged eastern hills. Such groups of volunteers have been co-ordinated and assisted by Council over many years now, including in projects under the umbrella of the Council’s Nelson Nature programme. The results from these efforts are now showing up not only when people visit the sanctuary and areas where pest trapping is occurring and supplementary planting is being undertaken, but also in residential areas adjoining the eastern hills with increased sightings of native bird species. There is no reason why this voluntary army cannot be encouraged and increased to assist with the replanting of areas cleared of exotic forestry in the areas that are to be transitioned to native species. Many retirees are keen to contribute to such projects and many active walkers, runners and mountain bikers are also keen to give back to improve the areas they enjoy visiting and to expanding such areas. It may be useful for those planning the transition from exotic to native species to review the work that the Nelson Biodiversity Forum has undertaken, including the large-scale mapping of potential biodiversity corridors designed to link upland areas with lowland and coastal areas, to see how such retired forestry areas can be incorporated into and enhance such biodiversity corridors. It is pleasing to see that the taskforce report acknowledges that much of the forestry blocks in the Maitai, Marsden and Brook catchments are within the Nelson Nature Halo project around the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary. And in addition that the report contains observations and preferences that they be phased over to indigenous vegetation and provide increased habitat enhancement for birdlife from the sanctuary and additional opportunities for increased recreational activities close to urban areas. This fits very nicely with the Brook Waimarama Sanctuary vision of a biodiversity corridor down the Brook Valley and of improving the habitat outside of the predator-proof fence to enable wildlife that fly over or are relocated outside the fence to have a greater chance of successfully repopulating the adjacent areas of native forests. As a former member of the Forestry Committee during my second term as a councillor, I advocated for a wider range of plantation species, including macrocarpa and hardwood species, to provide a range of timbers that could provide a resource for local furniture and cabinet makers and other possible users of alternative species. However, the prevailing view at the time was that Council needed to focus on increasing the area of Council’s “commercial” exotic forestry plantations to a so-called “sustainable” area of 800ha and continue planting Pinus radiata (as that was what everybody else was planting). This situation was not entirely surprising as the chair of the committee then was the recently retired former NZ Forest Service Conservator of Forests for the Nelson Marlborough area. One of the consequences of this desire to increase the area in plantation forestry was the establishment of some areas of pine plantations in small isolated pockets (particularly in the Maitai catchment) with seemingly no consideration of how the trees would be harvested 25-30 years later and the potential adverse impacts from providing access tracks and the logging techniques on water and soil values. Pines were also planted upstream of Council’s Maitai water supply dam and intakes contrary to its own water supply catchment management practice and the generally accepted best practice throughout the country. So it is very pleasing to read in the taskforce report that such plantings are likely to be transitioned to natives and environmentally damaging practices of clear felling of quite large areas will cease. In 2009, as Chair of Council’s Environment Committee I reworked a discussion paper following encouragement from Mayor Marshall on revegetating the city’s hill backdrop and valleys and establishing corridors which built on a paper initially prepared six years earlier. It seemed to help with the Council purchase of additional land on the Grampians, Brook Valley and the ridge in between the Brook and Maitai valleys that contained the former Dun Mountain railway line that is now part of the popular Coppermine Trail – one of the 23 Great Rides of New Zealand. It was however rather disappointing to see that after the pines were harvested that it was mostly replanted in another crop of pines. The paper is included below for anyone who is interested in reading it. 28 April 2009 The Chairperson and CouncillorsEnvironment Committee VEGETATING THE CITY HILL BACKDROP AND VALLEYS AND ESTABLISHING CORRIDORS Reason for the PaperTo suggest the preparation of a strategy for the re-vegetation of the city’s backdrop hills and valleys and the establishment of multi-purpose corridors. BackgroundOver the past decade or so, Council has been actively re-vegetating some of the hills that form the backdrop to the central city with native and other appropriate species. Areas on the Grampians, Centre of NZ and the Malvern Hills have been particularly targeted. Various individuals and community groups have assisted with this work. A network of tracks which have been popular with walkers, runners and mountain bikers has been established as part of the provision of recreational facilities available to residents and visitors. The western slopes of the Malvern Hills were purchased by Council with the express purpose of securing the backdrop to the CBD and Wood in public ownership. The planting of native species has been happening progressively. A well-used track has been provided, linking the Centre of NZ with Walter’s Bluff. Council now owns the majority of the Grampians, including a valuable native forest remnant on the southern slopes and has been replacing the pine and eucalyptus species with more appropriate ornamental exotic species and natives. The public reaction to the choice of exotic ornamentals indicated that there is considerable support for re-vegetating our hills with native species. In the Marsden Valley, a combined programme with Council, schools and the community has been controlling old man’s beard and other weed pests and planting additional native trees in the reserve areas. Additional tracks are planned to cater for walkers, runners and mountain bikers, including providing further access to the Bryant Range. Over the past 30 years, Council has been actively acquiring land in the Maitai Valley and establishing a variety of recreational facilities, including the Maitai Walkway and Waahi Taakaro golf course. The Brook Waimarama Sanctuary Trust has been established and is working on implementing its vision for a fenced pest-free sanctuary in the forested headwaters of the Brook catchment where lost species, such as kiwi, saddleback and tuatara, will be able to be re-introduced. It is anticipated that the sanctuary will be a nursery for wildlife that will spread into the adjoining forested areas such as the Maitai Valley, Marsden Valley, Mount Richmond Forest Park and down the Brook Valley corridor into the central city. In August 2003, the Council and the Department of Conservation jointly published the booklet Living Heritage: Growing Native Plants in Nelson which describes eight different lowland ecosystems in the Nelson City area and provides advice on planting and lists of native species appropriate for each ecosystem. This publication is an excellent resource for residents, community groups and others interested in restoring the native vegetation that is unique to Nelson. In May 2007, Council adopted the Nelson Biodiversity Strategy after a collaborative preparation effort by a Council-led inter-agency working group involving more than 20 community organisation over the preceding 2 years, including wider public consultation. The strategy contains 8 principles for biodiversity management, a vision, goals, objectives, methods and priority actions, including the preparation of Biodiversity Action Plans to cover flats, freshwater, coast, sea and hills. The Biodiversity Forum at its most recent meeting on 30 March 2009 adopted 3 action plans for the terrestrial, freshwater and coastal marine environments. It is now a widely accepted principle in biodiversity and conservation reserve management that connected areas are better than unconnected areas and that larger reserves are better than smaller reserves and as a consequence the benefits of connecting reserve areas via wildlife corridors are now widely appreciated. Such corridors are general vegetated to at least some extent to enable the movement of wildlife, particularly birds, in relatively safety and with food sources along the way to help sustain them in journeys between larger areas of suitable habitat. In urban and peri-urban situations such corridors can be for multiple purposes eg they can contain tracks and other facilities for recreational users. In valleys, such corridors can also incorporate esplanade/riparian reserves/strips alongside rivers and streams. The Nelson Biodiversity Strategy included several references to this concept such as Priority Action 16. Connect large and small remnants of native vegetation where appropriate with corridors of replanting, focusing these along the course of streams and rivers and across the city. The VisionTo develop a strategy or policy that has a goals of vegetating with appropriate native and other species, the city backdrop and adjacent valleys and establishes multi-purpose corridors that help to achieve the biodiversity strategy and bring nature back into the urban areas.Preparation of a Re-vegetation and Corridor StrategySuch a strategy could build on what Council has been doing over recent years and provide a more integrated, considered and strategic approach then the present rather ad hoc approach. It could identify backdrop hills and valleys that could be re-vegetated with native and appropriate exotic species. It could also identify possible corridors to link areas of native vegetation. These could be mapped onto large scale aerial photographs. The strategy could in addition to covering land currently owned by Council also include other public lands, land protected by covenants and land that has significant conservation value or potential strategic and/or conservation value that Council or other public agencies may wish to acquire and/or protect. Priorities could be established to help determine Council work programmes, guide community planting projects and reserve acquisition. Council could involve other interested parties including the Biodiversity Forum and provide opportunities for public input. Such a strategy may provide reserve network information that could eventually be incorporated in the Nelson Resource Management Plan, perhaps via structure plans, and into other Council documents such as reserve management plans. BenefitsThese could include:Biodiversity – assisting with implementation of the Nelson Biodiversity Strategy - enhanced natural values through additional areas of native vegetation and network of wildlife corridors;Community involvement and pride – huge potential to involve the community and to tap into the enthusiasm for planting native trees and shrubs and predator control projects – participants deriving personal satisfaction and community pride from their involvement and the work achieved;Recreation and healthy lifestyle – additional recreational opportunities;Nelson naturally brand – another clean & green element - enhanced backdrop to city and corridor network – a point of difference with other communities;Tourism – additional attractions and facilities for visitors;Employment and training – opportunities for pest control, plant propagation, planting, track development etc;Reduced fire risk – buffer between inflammable vegetation and city;Buffer between people and pollen from pines;Increased certainty with respect to long term planning goals;Substantial contribution to Council’s vision and community outcomes; andPossible opportunities for obtaining carbon credits for re-vegetated and enhanced areas. Recommendation That the Environment Committee consider this paper and, if supportive, set up a joint councillor and staff working group to prepare a draft re-vegetation and corridor strategy. Derek Shaw | 1045.1 |
| I support the Council’s proposal to exit from commercial forestry. Although the consultation documents highlight the costs of transitioning from commercial forests, there are also considerable benefits of doing so, which I consider more than justifies the costs. Having permanently forested area around Nelson will reduce risk from high rainfall events and reduce sedimentation of local waterways and estuaries, increasing Nelson’s resilience to climate change. | 1047.3 |
| Replant with deciduous exotics - there is plenty of native planting and existing native forest. Exotic woodlands provide variety. | 1050.3 |
| I fully support ceasing commercial pine forestry on council land, however planing a canopy of mixed species is only going to create costs for ratepayers in the future and not provide great hapitat for native species. Planting a mixture of native and exotics, with the latter being canopy species will ultimatey result in an exotic forest of tall stature tress which are inappropriate of the soil and topography of the council forestry land. The council forest land is mostly adjacent to both regenerating and original native forests, which provide an amazing seed source for re establishing native forest, which is not recognized under the current proposal. I would like to see this land planted in native establishent species, and over time nature will do the rest in regard to taller native canopy species. | 1055.3 |
| I support the Council’s proposal to exit from commercial forestry. Although the consultation documents highlight the costs of transitioning from commercial forests, there are also considerable benefits of doing so, which I consider more than justifies the costs. Having permanently forested area around Nelson will reduce risk from high rainfall events and reduce sedimentation of local waterways and estuaries, increasing Nelson’s resilience to climate change. | 1057.3 |
| Refer to 10 page submission for further information - key points re forestry below: | 1059.2 |
| Executive Summary | 1062.2 |
| the revenue and business activity is needed in the region and the country needs the export dollars | 1072.3 |
| I commend the Council for taking such a thorough and considerate approach to this issue. Common sense has prevailed and the changing direction will be looked upon fabourably in the future. | 1075.3 |
| Please make provision within this approach for the development on specialist areas to support the growth of medicinal plants to support Rongoa Maori; the harvest of plants for cultural projects such as whakairo projects. Please also consider the development of walking tracks, facilities, tramping huts and the allocation of space for youth development programmes, lease to school camp operators etc. | 1081.3 |
| I enthusiastically support the Council's approach. It is forward looking and helps meet our climate goals. A diverse native forest is less likely to catch fire. It is less susceptible to disease. It is a smart investment of my tax money. I am not an expert on forestry. I appreciate and recognise the research carried on to produce the Right Tree, RIght Place task force. | 1085.3 |
| It is extremely important to ensure continual long term access to forest areas for recreational activity.Nelson and it’s community are fueled by the great outdoors. A healthy community is fantastic to live in and be a part of. It’s imperative that access continues and the community has shown respect in the past by adhering to closures. | 1086.3 |
| It will be great to have native forests reclaiming the land. But weed control will be a real problem in the early years. | 1089.3 |
| Lets show other regions that forestry is not the only option. All forestry developments should have a corridor of at least 0.5km mixed species on their boundaries, negating the disruption to roading, traffic as well as reduce the issue of slash causing flooding and slips. | 1093.3 |
| I also support the needs of the hang gliding and paragliding community for access thru Council land as needed, and for provision of suitable take-off and landing sites. | 1098.2 |
| I would like to see the exit of exit commercial forestry in favor of local recreation and adventure tourism. In particular biking trails need to be preserved and our paragliding sites need both preservation and expansion. The Barnicoat paragliding site is constantly threatened by forestry and this is an iconic part of Nelson. Whatever decision is made i would like to see consideration for paragliding community. | 1099.3 |
| Refer to attachment for TET Annual Report 2023 | 1105.1 |
| Commercial forestry is unsustainable, unsightly, incredibly damaging to our precious soil layer and every time an area is clear-felled a lot of soil is lost. It ends up in Tasman bay affecting the whole marine ecology of the bay and destroying the first step of the food chain and hence all steps of the food chain. We should end pine forestry in the catchment area of Tasman Bay at least. Forestry slash and irresponsible forestry practices have also caused signficant damage to landscapes and houses from flooding in the past, and this needs to stop immediately to prevent further catastrophic events. | 1108.3 |
| Please ensure recreation options remain as they are of huge importance to the region. The access for paragliding, mountain biking and hiking make nelson such a special place. | 1110.3 |
| As a hang glider pilot, Barnicoat and the Stoke Hills/Richmond Ranges are a core part of my flying activities. Recent logging and mono-cultural forests have created unstable land surfaces, as well as an ugly aspect. Native species, multi-species and a long term strategy, COMBINED with better access to the hills for recreation, will both enhance the environment and living in the region. Mono-species forests with a 30 year cycle are a silly option for this land type; as an investor in commercial forests, this land is highly unlikely to ever be profitable for commercial forestry. | 1112.3 |
| To whom it may concern,As a member of the THGPC I wish to bring up to attention the importance that having access to Barnicoat take off through Glider Rd has for the paragliding community and other users.Whichever will be the decision in regards to abandon commercial forestry or not please consider all users.Barnicoat Ridge is a very popular destination for Nelsonians and visitors. It would be of great benefit if in case of total closure of Gliders Road we could access the ridge in alternative ways, in example from Silvan Forest.Critical in the future planning and development of the subdivisions at the foot of Barnicoat Range will be also assuring emergency landing area for paragliders (reserve areas of suitable dimensions). Many locals together with a good number of Kiwi and International visiting pilots will be grateful for that.Support in the organising and use of alternative take offs (like former Kaka Hill and Fringe Hill take off) would be very appreciated too.Kind regards,Ramon Lavia | 1120.3 |
| Prefer higher percentage of native species | 1121.1 |
| Commercial forestry provides short term financial gain at high environmental costs that ultimately are costing the ratepayer - extraction erosion / lack of biodiversity / wilding pines issue. The forestry above Richmond / Stoke should, IMHO be replaced with mixed native and multiple access routes remain open (and be maintained by Council) to the public for recreational purposes. Barnicoat / Glider Road is a classic example requiring on-going maintenance to allow multiple recreational uses currently being enjoyed to be continued. Mountain bike clubs, Paragliding and Hangliding clubs, walkers and runners heavily use the reserve areas and this needs to be maintained. With respect to paragliding and Hangliding Barnicoat is perhaps the most important readily accessible site in the region for these internationally growing activities. Any forestry activities need to understand the requirement to maintain / improve the launch site and access road and when planting new trees not to adversely impact launch and landing sites.Additional access routes eg. Silvan Road plus direct access walking / mountain biking routes from a secured 'bomb-out' at the foot of Barnicoat should also be sought to allow direct walk up hill / fly back to vehicle as is common throughout Europe. Any development at the base of the hill should take this into consideration as this will be a valuable asset for the region in respect of tourist income. | 1124.3 |
| areas close to the CBD should be planted in native species and kept aside for recreational purposes | 1130.3 |
| I'm very much in favour of increasing the planting of native trees and vegetation. Commercial forestry has its place and is a great renewable resource. However, the land selected for forestry should not be land which is good agricultural land. It also needs to take into account access, roads and impact on water ways, from the planting stage through to felling. | 1140.2 |
| I think pine trees are damaging to the waterways and also contribute to hayfever, so I would like to see a transition away from pine trees. I would birds to be taken into account when planting the mixed species canopy, so that food sources are available for them and nesting sites for ruru etc. Once the halo effect starts to take place from the sanctuary, the birds will need food, so I would like to see a lot of native trees as part of the mixed species canopy. | 1148.1 |
| Forestry is too damaging to the environment. Look at the Maitai, it is a life source for our city and has three wonderful swimming holes in summer that we all enjoy. The run-off, silt, erosion and slash continues to damage it. | 1157.3 |
| providing that mountain bike tracks are still available - native forests are way better for the environment and mountain biking is the main reason for me moving to Nelson. | 1181.3 |
| I believe that more public recreation areas and native bush will be far more beneficial to the community as a whole than the income from commercial plantations. I think that areas should be developed with all forms of recreation in mind including but not limited to hiking, trail running, mountain/e-biking and paragliding/ hang- gliding. | 1182.2 |
| As an active member of the hang gliding community who accesses flying site all over the country, I request the following points are considered...Access to Glider Rd and the Barnicoat launch sites is maintained.Council support for the extension of hang glider and paraglider launch sites to make them safer.Provision of an emergency landing area at the base of the Barnicoat launch.Council permission to access launch sites previously used by the hang glider/paraglider community, but now denied by Ngati Koata.Vehicle access maintained from along Barnicoat Ridge to the launch.Thank you from the New Zealand flyers and their international guests. | 1183.3 |
| We need to keep slash out of our rivers and off our beaches. | 1191.3 |
| consideration should also be made for mixed species closed canopy commercial forestry (on suitable slopes) providing income, amenity and habitat. | 1197.2 |
| A mix of commercial forestry and regrowth of native bushland. The commercial forestry needs to be modernised to selective logging, leaving mature trees in pace to stabilise soils continuously. Areas of steep terrain and natural water courses or feeders into water courses to be immediately planted in a mix of native species to minimise the erosion of soils and loss of nutrients. | 1198.1 |
| Would want Commercial Forestry to be accountable for their waste products (Slag) to be tidied up by them or processed alternatively. This needs to be an agreement signed as per commercial operation. | 1204.3 |
| Absolutely necessary given climate change, flood potential, and declining soil productivity for commercial mono-culture. The costs to do this over time are well under the benefits to people and the environment over a longer period of time. | 1212.3 |
| We have lost a valuable scallop fishery in Tasman Bay through sedimentation smothering shellfish habitat, most of the sediment resulting from forest harvesting. Forestry harvesting practices in NZ are archaic by international standards resulting in widespread erosion with land and water degradation. Cr Sanson has shown the the economic benefits are marginal.Please exit commercial forestry and find an environmentally sound use for these lands. Plant a mixed canopy forest with recreation facilities like mountain bike and motor bike tracks and charge for use. Nelsons first multi use regional park? | 1216.3 |
| It would be great to see the growth of more native species in the area. | 1217.2 |
| So so so in favour of this. I do a lot of work on my property to trap and replant, etc. Will be amazing to feel like it's part of a bigger effort across the region :-) | 1221.3 |
| I support Option 1My Comments include that the city is broke and can’t afford the luxury of Option 2 | 1225.3 |
| Fully support the proposal to grow a continuous canopy. Please do it in Kaka Valley as well. | 1236.2 |
| I strongly support ending Council's involvement in commercial forestry and wherever possible reverting all Council owned exotic forests to native forests. This would strongly benefit the environment and biodiversity in the Nelson region with associated amenity and economic benefits. It would also serve as a model for other local private exotic forest owners and could inspire them to revert more of their land to native plantings. The topography and geology of much of the forestry land near Nelson, combined with the clear-felling harvest practices, has resulted in unacceptable land erosion and sediment discharge to our rivers and to Tasman Bay. NCC should lead the way to reducing these negative environmental impacts by exiting its involvement with commercial forestry. | 1246.3 |
| I am writing to offer my perspective on the important issue of forestry management, particularly regarding the use of NCC forest estate for various recreational activities. While the primary focus of this discussion may be on forestry, I believe it's crucial to consider the broader spectrum of outdoor pursuits that enrich our community. | 1248.3 |
| This will decrease the fire risk and allow increased access for the mountain biking, walking and paragliding enthusiasts as well as contributing to the establishment of native forest regeneration. I support the continued use of Glider road and access to the Barnicoat launch site as well as establishing an emergency landing site at the base of the hill. Recent housing developments have significantly reduced the landing options and this puts continuing paragliding from Barnicoat in jeopardy. I further support all of the Nelson and Tasman Paragliding and Hangliding club submissions | 1252.1 |
| This all depends on how council wishes to try and keep rates down while taking on massive unsustainable debt. As good as it would be to exit from pine loss of revenue at a time that council is intent on beggaring the city any income must be retained until such time as is prudent to change the approach. | 1255.3 |
| Continued control of public land leased to forestry without the greater enjoyment of the public for recreational use has to stop. Access to the leased forestry land has been getting worse with forestry incorrectly applying and perhaps doing so deliberately to keep people out 2015 Health and Safety Act, so the lessee can do as they please with out having to manage the public at their cost over the land - the Rodding up behind Barnicoat Hill is a prime example (previous locle foretry allowed access, foreign off shore company purchase no access for New Zelanders). When raised with council, they wash their hands and say it is down to the forestry company because it is leased to them to manage, not good enough. Return to native and encourage public access once again to what belongs to all New Zealanders for recreationally enjoyment. Recreational use will draw far more wellbeing gains and dollars into the locale economy than forestry has shown over decades to at best break even, yet risks tremendous devastation to the landscape as we have recently witnessed in the past year or so. The cost for that deviation born by affected landowners and the the council to clean up or rather the rate payer (ie the houseowner again in rate increases - a double whammy for the house owner). | 1257.3 |
| Great plan | 1258.3 |
| Forest owners should be made to eradicate the wildering pine trees caused by their planting and forests. | 1260.2 |
| Forestry is damaging our coastal ecology the way it is managed in NZ - the silt loads are next level and forestry is a major contributor to this. Restoring council (public) land and reducing the disturbance / impact to ecology and recreation is a win-win. | 1263.2 |
| I strongly support the council's change of direction. | 1267.3 |
| Regrow all as native forest. | 1271.3 |
| I agree with the findings of the Right Tree Right Place Task Force that all current NCC commercial forests should be transitioned into continuous-canopy forest systems, mostly of mixed species, that best meet community values and address climate risks. | 1272.3 |
| Like Option two but ensure to grow Native Forest only | 1273.3 |
| Regenerate to native bush and provide a bush park for the community to enjoy, with some commercial business ventures that can lease the bush for activities etc | 1278.3 |
| The sooner we can revert to the original native forests the better. There's income to be made in eco-tourism, as long as it's managed properly | 1286.3 |
| The private sector is better at running commercial forests than councils are, and a non-commercial forest will enhance the liveability and marketability of our city. | 1290.3 |
| This allows for use all the time without restrictions during forestry operations and allows for the development of long term tracks for recreation and improves the environmental impact seen by forestry. Credits can still be gained from native forest. | 1295.3 |
| no opinion on this matter | 1302.3 |
| Great idea from lots of point of view (and especially a flood mitigation point of view). I also look across the Cook Strait and see the amazing work Wellington has done to enhance their native bird populations, using the halo effect of Zealandia (and trapping). We have our own Waimarama sanctuary and if we provide good habitat by converting the pine plantations and implement the 2022 Urban Greening Plan, we might be able to create an amazing city of native birds. These are the kind of treasures that will become more valuable with time. | 1305.3 |
| although forestry is a large employer in the region, pine trees or barren hills doesn’t align with the 100% Pure NZ image very well | 1313.2 |
| This is a no brainer. We saw a huge amount of forestry slash in our rivers and sea after the August 2022 floods. I helped clear tahunanui beach, most of that debris was forestry slash. We also need to improve our biodiversity. A dream would be to have the city surrounded by bush like we have in the Brook Waimārama Sanctuary. That would be really special. | 1324.3 |
| This needs to happen as it has been very unsuccessful and a blight on council and during flood events is devastating.I also support developing the spaces in Marsden valley for recreational use.Barnicoat is one of New Zealand's premier paragliding sites i support more development of that site often people congregate at the take off a lovely grassed area for walkers MTBers and pilots all enjoying one of the only places you can enjoy the view I also support trees being planted which support the sport on launch.I also support a landing space being available as land is developed and reserve places are created with trees and plantings which support the sport | 1329.3 |
| NZ Forestry practices are causing high rates of damage through sedimentation and slash, and here in Nelson‘s Tasman Bay have already destroyed shellfish habitat. In addition it is not even commercially lucrative. | 1332.3 |
| I strongly support the council transitioning away from commercial forestry. Although council commercial forests represent only a small percentage of commercial forests they are strategically placed being close to urban areas and sensitive, unique ecological areas such as the mineral belt. Permanet forests offer some protection from climate change risks, reducing flooding and fire hazards. There are also considerable recreational and aesrthetic advantages. Assuming the council proceeds with option there are significant opportunities to partner with community groups which would offer both financial and social rewards. | 1333.3 |
| Ngāti Kuia supports indigenous forestsIn Aotearoa New Zealand, few exotic species are long-lived. To ensure enduring carbon sinks beyond 2050 we need to be planting long-lived tree species that can grow and sequester carbon for hundreds of years. Our indigenous forests demonstrate this capability. Permanent indigenous forests have advantageous co-benefits of enhancing indigenous biodiversity, soil health, stability and conservation, air and water quality, and regulating local climate conditions. They enhance the natural landscape. Our changing climate and biodiversity loss are inextricably linked and need to be addressed simultaneously and synergistically. Using carbon credits generated from indigenous afforestation to achieve biodiversity gains will address both crises in tandem. We recognise the high costs of establishing and maintaining indigenous forests, especially on marginal land, and the currently limited commercial return on investment. Scaling up native afforestation will therefore require up-front financial support. A biodiversity payment or incentive scheme could be that mechanism. We encourage you to support development of a biodiversity incentives scheme in this rohe to help establish a native afforestation sector. In the meantime, Ngāti Kuia supports the new National Environmental Standards for Commercial Forestry 2023 (NES-CF), particularly insofar as they require better management of slash, including its removal from steep land. We support the Government’s agreement to retain these measures and impose a duty upon harvesters to contain and remove post-harvest slash. However, harvesting and earthworks of plantation and continuous-cover (aka carbon) forest on steep erosion-prone land remains largely permissive. We do not support this practice. | 1342.3 |
| This is a matter of great uncertainty. This is a bigger issue than forestry assets. Nelson is under financial stress and as such needs every income pipeline it can bring to bear. Housing alone won't do it. Would the city be better to think of value add products for its forestry. NZ Inc needs prefab solutioning as an example. | 1345.3 |
| It is crucial Nelson moves away from single species pine forestry as it a major player in recent environmental degradation. A continuous canopy of mixed species would prevent slips, protecting houses and roads, saving the council more money in the long term. It would also increase the amount of native bush in Nelson Tasman, increasing biodiversity of both plants and animals. | 1348.3 |
| While I have not been able to find the income derived from plantation forestry in Nelson region, I understand that the income derived is put towards other projects within the region. As a rate payer in Nelson I would expect Council not to squander income.The reason for existing plantation forestry is emotive. The NES-CF is in place to provide sound environmental and social outcomes. Where is the science to back the council’s limited understanding of plantation forestry? | 1349.1 |
| This would be hugely more effective in supporting the environment and biodiversity, reduce silt run off into waterways, and provide better stability for the land. | 1350.1 |
| Recreation value has more value than Forestry. | 1365.3 |
| forestry generally is an eyesore, especially tge areas tgat are close ti town. It decreases the value of natural beauty which impacts the desirability of thd region and recreation suffers and is degraded. Recreation clse to the town shoujd be prioritised ( such as mountain biking, walking, running ) This will add value to residents and visitors alike. Nelson could position itself as leaded in the space of environmental restoration. | 1366.3 |
| Definitely need to get out of supporting commercial forestry. So many problems caused by slash. Not just to people's properties but also dangers to water users (like myself), both to locals and to tourists. Along with many others volunteered at beach clean ups clearing up what was 90% slash. Volunteers should not have to sort out problems caused by commercial entities. | 1367.3 |
| Athletics Nelson Inc is the only Athletics New Zealand registered senior club promoting running and walking in the Nelson Tasman area. It caters for athletes from children through to Masters and offers year-round opportunities for road, cross country, track and field, mountain and trail running. Trail running in the hills to the north, east and south of the city is currently experiencing a marked increase in popularity both for recreational and training runs and competitive events. The Club and other event organisers utilize the existing network of tracks on Council and private land and are keen to provide trail runners with new track options for events. We support Option 2 for Council’s approach contained in the Draft NCC LTP 2024-2034. The proposed exit of commercial forestry activities in favour of transitioning to a continuous canopy of mixed species and managing all the Council-owned forests as one area will have considerable long term environmental, social, recreational and financial benefits to the city. These include: Safer areas for recreational users, including runners and walkers, as the fire risk in dry periods should be much reduced by the removal of inflammable pine plantations and their replacement with less inflammable native and exotic species; Hopefully, it will result in far less time when areas with Council plantations are closed to recreational activities, thus preventing access to recreational areas beyond the current plantation forests; Opportunities to add to the current network of tracks for recreational activities which, in turn, will enhance Nelson’s reputation as a great place to visit for trail running, mountain biking and walking activities and events; A significant reduction in adverse health effects on those people who suffer from the effects of pine pollen as a result of the removal of pine plantations; A more attractive environment for recreational activities when exotic plantations are replaced with native and a mix of other species in some areas; No more closures of vital recreational areas to allow for the harvesting of pine plantations; The avoidance of unsightly areas associated with harvesting - slash, stumps, access roads and log handling sites - and the impacts on soil disturbance, erosion and siltation in our streams and rivers in the eastern hills and valleys; Substantially providing increased options for residents to enjoy the personal health benefits of physical exercise. | 1369.3 |
| Its been a commercial success and provided a return.Councils proposal will be costly so will become negative return cost centre.I believe Councils proposal is a personal opinion Councillors not in the interest of its ratepayers.Personal opinions should stay aside especially if its more costly | 1373.3 |
| Strongly support option 2. | 1379.3 |
| Ease forestry to ensure easy non-permitted public access to much more points of native forest, but somewhat allow continuation of this core industry. | 1388.3 |
| As a regular user of the public access to Barnicoat hill both as a mountainniker and a paragluder pilot, I have seen the dreadful state that exotic forestry harvesting causes due removal of all forest cover, creating slash residue, vulnerability to erosion but also wilding pines and weeds. My own recreational activities curtailed by the unscheduled forest closure for indeterminate periods in the past due to these problems. I think it's very important to commence a mixed forestfplanting regime as soon as possible to protect access and, of course, to enhnce the recreational amenith value.The paragluder launch site should remain with support from NCC to eliminate the gorse growing below the road.Any development of fornef forestry to mixed planting should also include consultation with the needs of the NSMTC anc the THGPC to ensure continued development of traiks, access and launch sites Comment: As a regular user of the access to binacoat hill has both a mountain club biker and a paragraph pilot. I have seen the dreadful state that exotic forestry harvesting causes and have head. My own recreational activities curtailed by the forest. Free work Post stop play the more. There is a threat of food environmental degradation. And I think it's very important that a beginning of a planting regime commenced as soon as possible. Particularly the area's the strip's Idaho of the road.Thisvus to ensure conitined vehicle or walking access to the Barnicoat paragludinv launch site.Thetd usca further growing problem of gorse and ontinued HG and PG access to Glider Rd and Barnicoat Launch.2. Removal of Douglas Fir from area adjacent Barnicoat Launch due to wilding/self seeding effects.3. Facilitation of extension of HG PG launches to SW on Barnicoat Launch and/or Gecko Hill.4. Support of THGPC in obtaining: a) Vehicle access along Barnicoat Ridge from Silvan Forest to Barnicoat Launch, and b) Future access to former | 1390.3 |
| Having continuous native forest, with amenities, will attract more biking and tramping tourists to the area. | 1391.3 |
| NCC have the opportunity to lead by example, by transitioning away from pine monoculture in the Maitai Valley. Pine forestry practices in the Maitai have been demonstrated to adversely impact the Maitai River and Nelson Haven, e.g. through sedimentation and associated toxic algal blooms, and slash washout during flood events. These adverse effects should be factored into the cost/benefit analysis when considering a transition away from pine forestry in the catchment. | 1397.2 |
| NCC have the opportunity to lead by example, by transitioning away from pine monoculture in the Maitai Valley. Pine forestry practices in the Maitai have been demonstrated to adversely impact the Maitai River and Nelson Haven, e.g. through sedimentation and associated toxic algal blooms, and slash washout during flood events. These adverse effects should be factored into the cost/benefit analysis when considering a transition away from pine forestry in the catchment. | 1404.2 |
| This is a great idea. Preferably native species all along the hills from Fringe Hill to Sylvan forest. The existing road infrastructure is important for the paragliding and hang gliding club to access the Barnicoat take off site, so hopefully any logging of existing pinus radiata would not adversely affect access. | 1413.2 |
| anything is better and mote crucial than nothing here | 1423.3 |
| with regards to 4. Forestry exit: | 1425.6 |
| Council’s forestry approachTBCA supports Option 2 – change our approach, exit commercial forestry over time and grow a continuous canopy of mixed species Nelson’s backdrop of low, north-facing hills provides a wonderful opportunity for development as a recreational space with high conservation and biodiversity values. A mix of native and exotic tree species would give stable forest cover while also reducing the risk of sedimentation, which is an inevitable feature of plantation forestry. | 1433.3 |
| i do not support our reliance on pine forestry and would like to see the hills return to native bush with recreation options doe residents. | 1437.3 |
| Leave commercial forestry in the private sector. Mixed species on council land provide a better canopy, more resilience and more attractive to look at. | 1438.3 |
| Some return on forestry needed. It also retains "control" on access and misuse of area. | 1439.3 |
| I support the planting of native and exotic trees to enhance the area and to encourage more recreational use if it is possible to ensure plantings around the existing paragliding & hang gliding launch/landing area are of a suitable distance away and height to allow safe operations to continue from the area. I would consider vehicle access to the top of Barnicoat important as I believe it benefits multiple users of the area. | 1450.2 |
| Essential to maintain ground cover and minimise run off/sedimentation. | 1461.3 |
| As a stakeholder in the Nelson Haven and the marine environment, Nelson Yacht Club fully supports Option 2 - Council’s proposal to exit from commercial forestry over time, and grow a continuous canopy of mixed species. The health of the Haven and the water quality in the marine environment is of particular importance to our community. The downstream effects of commercial forestry including clear-felling practices have had a negative impact on our members and community.logs and debris in the water after a rainfall event - hazards to navigation, risk to recreational users.increased siltation and sedimentation of the harbour - significant growth of sandbars, reduction in water quality, impact on marine life. We believe that putting a stop to commercial forestry and clear-felling practices on council land is a positive step in the right direction. | 1465.1 |
| Recent weather events throughout New Zealand have proven that large scale forestry can be very damaging to our environment and the environment.With the fickle market nature of Pine logs, it is also demonstrated that commercial forestry would bring little to no benefit to NCC managed land.Moving away from short rotation pine crops and re-establishing native species will help support our waterways and coastline recovery. | 1466.3 |
| We support Council in Option 2, with caveats. | 1474.13 |
| i like the idea of recreational access to mixed species forest near the city fringes. Acquiring most of Kaka Valley could be considered for this. | 1479.3 |
| We commend the excellent and detailed work of The Right Tree Right Place Taskforce and acknowledge their comprehensive reports “Strategic Planning & Decision Making – analysis, action plans, and recommendations”, “Evolving ecologies – community aspirations, forest transition options & challenges”, “Enhancing Forest Stewardship –community & governance opportunities”, and “The Value of the NCC Forest Estate.”We agree with the various recommendations in these reports.We are of the view that Nelson has been poorly served by its commercial forestry estate – commercially and ecologically. In 2017 (in response to an invitation to contribute to an internal review at NCC), we recorded concerns over the opacity of the relevant data, noting “It is difficult to establish the extent and nature of the city’s ETS forestry plantations” , questioning the currency of the available data, and asking “what if anything is the significance of the ETS in Nelson’s context, and is it really a ‘big picture example’?“ Subsequent engagement with Council tended to validate these concerns.We note and endorse the suggested integrated management of the entire 10,000 Ha estate, the multi-species continuous canopy approach, taking a multiple activity view of the estate, and governing it by an “independent community entity” as outlined in the “Enhancing Forest Stewardship” report.We consider it important to factor into long term management strategies the possibility of extraction of timber, within the continuous canopy regime, which may prove to be an additional support for sustaining such forests.We especially commend the holistic and integrative approach of the “Evolving Ecologies” report and see it as a particularly good example of fitting with the LGA purpose of long-term plans and their consultative documents. | 1482.3 |
| Support Option 2 - Exit commercial forestry over time and grow a continuous canopy of mixed species. | 1494.2 |
| Forest & Bird supports Option 2 – Exit commercial forestry.Forest & Bird support the implementation of the Right Tree Right Place Taskforce recommendations.Although Option 2 is presented as a more expensive option, we would argue that there are externalized costs not accounted for in continuing with commercial forestry and there are clear benefits in transitioning away from commercial forestry.Externalised costs include erosion and sedimentation impacts, fire risk, and wilding conifer risk.Erosion & sedimentation.Forest & Bird see sedimentation as the second highest risk to biodiversity in the Nelson region after climate change. This is because of the impact of sedimentation on our coastal marine environment. A slip on a steep clear-felled slope in the Maitai Valley during the 2022 weather event damaged Nelson’s water supply, necessitating an expensive repair.Indigenous forest reduces the chance of slips and erosion. A study conducted in Marlborough by GNS Science after the 2022 weather event which resulted in severe erosion, found that “Harvest Forest and exotic forest makes up around about 18% of the land cover (in 2021), yet it contributed something in the order of 65% of the landslides”. And “Data showed that indigenous forest made up close to 50% of the land area, yet it's only contributing maybe 5% of the landslides.”11 Hart, M. (2023, Jul 25). ‘The problem is the forestry’: Human activity a ‘dominat factor’ in Marlborough Sounds Slips. Stuff. Retrieved from: https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/local-democracy-reporting/132579430/the-problem-is-the-forestry-human-activity-a-dominant-factor-in-marlborough-sounds-slipsFire risk Exotic forestry has a greater fire risk than indigenous forests. Fire risk will increase with our warming climate. Fire risk also reduces opportunities for public recreation in council’s public reserves when they are closed due to fire risk. In addition, this has an impact upon summer tourism and the economy.Benefits to transitioning away from commercial forestry.•Reduced erosion and sedimentation.•Long term Biodiversity benefits from transition to indigenous forest.•Reduced fire risk and greater year-round public recreational access.•Future ETS income from eligible indigenous afforestation. | 1495.1 |