Council’s forestry approach Debate

Economic Benefits - Tourism

Option 2

Residents believe that transitioning to mixed native forests will significantly enhance Nelson's appeal as a destination for outdoor recreation and eco-tourism, attracting both local and international visitors. They argue that improved recreational facilities, such as trails for mountain biking and walking, will not only boost tourism but also provide economic benefits through increased spending in the region. Additionally, the natural beauty and biodiversity of these forests are seen as key factors in promoting Nelson as a prime location for eco-tourism and related activities, potentially making tourism a primary industry in the area.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
119.3	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.
144.1	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.
275.3	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
517.1	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.
557.3	Best for long term future and should replace economic gain of forests with gain from tourism, mountainbiking and general population health & happiness!
583.3	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.
835.1	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.
892.3	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
923.3	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.
932.3	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.
939.3	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.
1124.3	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.
1286.3	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
1391.3	Having continuous native forest, with amenities, will attract more biking and tramping tourists to the area.