A fund designed to support grassroots environmental projects across Otago has had a major boost.

Funding for Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) Eco Fund has increased by 58 percent to $900,000, meaning more groups will be able to take advantage of the funding in the upcoming round.

This increase includes a ‘large scale biodiversity fund’ targeting projects in a range of $50,000-$150,000, ORC environmental implementation manager Libby Caldwell said.

The fund supports community-led projects around the region that protect, enhance and promote Otago’s environment and applications for this year’s fund will open on March 1. 

Libby said the increased funding reflected the fact the fund has been oversubscribed in recent years.

“We’re definitely seeing greater interest in community-led projects around Otago and want to foster more of these partnerships which so positively enhance the environment,” she said.

ORC councillor and ECO Fund chair Alan Somerville said the Eco Fund provides excellent value to Otago communities and the environment.

“Communities know what is most important in their own areas, and money from the Eco Fund can enable them to turn their ideas into action,” he said. 

Alan said the application criteria is broad and covers biodiversity, biosecurity, and improving water quality.

“Last year's funding round included projects to establish a trap library at Taieri Mouth, removal of lupins in the Lindis Pass, plants for riparian planting in South Otago and rabbit fencing at Moeraki and Wānaka,” he said.

The fund can also cover up to 50 percent of wages costs for project coordinators, he said.

Since the Eco Fund’s began in 2018, 133 projects have received grants, totalling $1.71M.

Find more information and application information for the Eco Fund here.

PHOTO: Supplied