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Wetlands, such as lagoons, estuaries, bogs, swamps, shallow lakes and farm dams, have a vital role in maintaining the health of the region's natural environment. In the past, as Taranaki's agriculture-based economy has developed, most of our natural wetlands have been drained or filled. It is estimated that today, only 1.5% of Taranaki's original wetland areas remain. Many are small wetlands on private land, often surrounded by pastoral farmland, and potentially threatened by grazing, agricultural pollution, drainage or vegetation clearance.
The natural, conservation and scientific value of the remaining wetlands means that their protection and enhancement is essential. Wetlands are unique habitats that:
- store water during rainfall to lower flood levels and
release water during dry periods
- improve water quality by leaching out nitrates and phosphates from runoff, and trapping sediment
- are rich ecosystems that support a diversity of plant,
animal and bird life
- provide recreational value and can add landscape
appeal to a farm
The Council promotes wetland protection through education, advice and information. Council can provide advice on fencing, riparian planting or covenanting to protect wetlands. A small number of important or regionally significant wetlands have been given legal protection under the Regional Fresh Water Plan so that they cannot be touched or affected by nearby activities. Up to $130,000 is allocated each year to protect regionally significant wetlands.
The Council's booklet 'Wetlands of Taranaki' (February 2000) highlights the efforts of individuals and the measures taken by Council to protect and enhance wetlands in the region.
Printed copies of the Council's publications may be ordered from the Publications Officer:
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