Applications for Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) annual ECO Fund will close soon.

More than $1M is available for projects across Otago which protect, enhance, or promote the environment - but applications need to be in by the end of the month.

ORC environmental implementation manager Libby Caldwell said interest in the fund has been high.

“We want to give all applicants the best advice we can to help get their projects across the line,” she said.

“There’s still time to contact staff for assistance for determining groups’ needs and eligibility.”

The overall funding this year is $1.05 million, up from $918,000 last year. It is spread across six categories and is open to a wide range of applicants.

Within the six categories, there is funding for projects of up to $15,000, $50,000 and $150,000.

Under the different categories that can include on-ground works, biodiversity enhancement, water quality improvement, pest animal or weed control, native planting and revegetation, education, or administrative support, Libby said.

Local recipients from previous years have included Friends of Bullock Creek, Hāwea Charitable Trust, Southern Lakes Sanctuary Trust, and many more.

“Communities know what matters most locally and these funding programmes can empower them to turn those great ideas into action,” Libby said.

Staff have made some changes to the fund processes which should make applying clearer and easier for applicants to navigate, she said.

“Communities that are either taking their first steps to begin a new project, or looking to continue and expand existing projects, which could improve the environment across numerous types of needs, should consider applying to the ECO Fund,” she said.

Find more information about the ECO Fund here.

PHOTO: Wānaka App