A Memorandum of Understanding between NRM North and Hydro Tasmania will lead to improved understanding and management of northern Tasmania’s natural resources.
NRM North Chief Executive Officer, James McKee, and Hydro Tasmania’s General Manager Communications and External Relations, Andrew Catchpole, signed the MOU at Poatina this morning.
Mr McKee said the agreement aimed to develop collaborative approaches to the management of natural resources in the northern NRM region.
“It is anticipated the Memorandum of Understanding will improve knowledge and management of natural resource assets and build on processes already in place to share information, resources and skills.
“NRM North has established a strong relationship with Hydro Tasmania and this agreement is formal recognition of the commitment to continue working together to care for our natural resources.” Mr McKee said.
Mr Catchpole said the MOU would enhance cooperation in respect to joint and supported projects.
“The memorandum strengthens Hydro Tasmania’s existing relationship with NRM North and builds on our commitment to sustainable land and water management. It also offers additional opportunities, such as possible funding for specific rehabilitation programs undertaken on Hydro Tasmania land.
“Hydro Tasmania has responsibility for significant land and waterways across the State and we believe the partnership with NRM North will enhance our activities in these areas.”
Hydro Tasmania also provides engineering, water resource and environmental management consulting services.
“The relationship allows our consultants to better understand NRM North’s objectives and activities and ensures that we maximise value when providing our expert environmental services.
“Through collaboration with NRM North, we expect the sharing of knowledge and skills will continue to provide opportunities for innovation and efficiency in our land management practices which we hope to see flow through to the wider agricultural community.” Mr Catchpole said.
The development of a property management plan for Brumbys Creek is an example of successful collaboration.
The 450 hectare farm known as the Poatina Re-regulation Pond is owned and managed by Hydro Tasmania and is leased to two landholders, primarily for grazing.
Mr McKee said NRM North provided funding for the development of the property management strategy for the land.
“The strategy resulted in the removal of weeds including thistle and gorse and the replanting of native species along the pond.
“Through our partnership with Hydro Tasmania, we aim to further improve sustainable farming practises in the future including grazing and weed management and coordinate with farmers on salinity management issues which are prevalent in the area.” Mr McKee said.
Mr Catchpole said the Poatina Re-regulation Pond was an important asset within the wider Brumbys catchment.
“We want to work with NRM North and the Northern Midlands Council to develop a wider Brumbys Creek Catchment management plan.”
Hydro Tasmania is also involved in NRM North’s Tamar Estuary and Esk Rivers (TEER) Program.
The TEER program is a formal regional partnership between NRM North, State and Local Governments, which takes a ‘catchment to coast’ approach to managing the Tamar Estuary and Esk River systems.
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