1 June 2023
The Natural Heritage Fund will open a little earlier than usual this year for applications for projects to be undertaken in 2024.
The Natural Heritage Fund is to assist private landowners to protect or enhance indigenous biodiversity on their land.
The fund is made available instead of rates remissions on a limited number of properties. Any privately owned land within the Gisborne district is eligible for funding.
Since the annual fund was increased from $40,000 to $100,000 in 2022, we have received a much greater number of applications which has increased our processing time. Last year a record 27 applications were received. Each application has to be assessed and scored, and staff are happy to come out and visit project sites as part of the application stage to get a better understanding of projects and provide advice if required.
Applications will be open from 15 July 2023, and will close on 15 September. Projects need to be completed by the end of 2024. Details of eligibility criteria and previous successful projects are available on our website.
We strongly encourage all potential applicants to get in touch with us prior to lodging their application to ensure you understand the process and provide all necessary information to maximise your chances of securing funding. The applications we have received in recent years vary widely in quality and we prefer to not have to chase applicants for additional information.
Here are some tips to maximise your chances of a successful application.
- A project plan providing a clear description of the project- what is the current state of the project area? What species are already present? What are the long term goals and are there benefits to the wider area?
- Ensure your costs are reasonable- Please include recent quotes for materials, labour or plant purchases. We appreciate that costs can be variable, but we need to get a good idea of how the money is being spent.
- Only apply for a maximum of 50% of the total cost of your project. The other 50% must come from somewhere else- in kind labour and other funding sources are all ok.
- Include a map clearly defining the project area. Photographs are helpful too, especially if there is existing vegetation that is to be protected.
Finally, please ensure you read the front page of the application form. It is important to note that grants are only paid out on the completion of the work. This may mean that you will have to carry some costs until certain milestones are met, or the project is complete.
If you require any further information, or wish to discuss your project prior to submitting an application, please contact Melanie Cheetham, Senior Land Management Officer.